Lecture Notes: Water Supply and Conservation

Introduction

• Over half of the Earth's population lacks access to safe, reliable drinking water.
• People in some regions are fortunate to have access to high-quality drinking water.

Sources of Drinking Water

• Seattle has two primary watersheds: Cedar River Watershed and Tolt River Watershed.
  • Cedar River supplies two-thirds of Seattle's water.
  • Tolt River supplies the remaining third.
• Historically, Seattle's water came from local wells and springs.

Development of Seattle's Water System

• The Great Seattle Fire in 1889 highlighted the need for a reliable water system.
• Mayor Moran and city engineer R.H. Thompson advocated for a gravity-fed water system from the Cedar River.
• In 1889, public vote led to the creation of a new water municipality.
• By 1901, a pipeline from Cedar River delivered water to Seattle.

Changes and Challenges in the Watershed

• After 1901, much of the watershed land was used for timber and industry.
• Towns like Moncton were affected by dam construction and water management changes.
• In 1915, a dam built for power demands caused flooding in Moncton.

Water Treatment and Management

• Seattle has a unique alternative to filtration due to high water quality.
• Water is screened and disinfected with chlorine; UV light and ozone are also used.
• Management objectives include water for people, fish, flood management, and hydro generation.
• Collaboration with Army Corps of Engineers helps in managing river flows and objectives.

Environmental and Conservation Efforts

• Efforts to balance water needs for people and salmon in the Cedar River.
• Negotiations in the 1990s focused on water flows for fish and habitat conservation.
• Settlement agreements with native tribes ensure access for ceremonial purposes and treaty rights.

Climate Change and Future Challenges

• Climate change is expected to reduce snowpack and alter water runoff patterns.
• Seattle is fortunate to have a pristine water source but must adapt to changing conditions.
• Planning involves climate models to anticipate impacts on water supply and demand.

Conservation and Community Involvement

• Seattle uses water conservation to manage demand and supply.
• Historical events, like the low snowpack in 1992, highlight the importance of conservation.
• Population growth and water use trends indicate successful conservation measures.

Global Water Issues

• Water scarcity is a growing global challenge, likely to become a significant crisis.
• Some cities, like Phoenix and Tucson, face the depletion of non-replenishing aquifers.
• Awareness and gratitude for water infrastructure are crucial for future sustainability.

Conclusion

• Water management is vital for personal, community, and future well-being.
• Ongoing responsibility to care for this essential resource is imperative.