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   In the land of 10,000 lakes, it seems as if we can never run out of water. Even during drought years, the lakes still have water in them, and that gives us a false sense of hope that this critical resource can never be depleted. Large-scale agriculture, lawns, golf courses, and industry use a large amount of water for their operations and appearance. As I canoe around the lakes, I see docks, boat lifts, and water supply lines traversing away from the water to pumps that water the lawns. Drive through the countryside and see center pivot irrigators (the better view is from up above) covering the fields that once were forests and prairies. Take a trip just a bit South, and wonder why the ditches have so much water flowing in them when it rains (drain tile). Working at multiple golf courses, I realized how much water it takes to create playgrounds constructed of cool-season, real short grasses that would naturally dry up in the heat of the summer. These activities and practices that we have created either require a lot of water to function, or require the groundwater to flow away from the site, to grow annual row crops where water recharge areas, habitat, and flood control mechanisms once were. 

   We are at a crucial juncture in our next steps. Continuing on the current trajectory will lead to further draining of water-held areas, resulting in the loss of vital habitats and recharge zones for groundwater. These areas are essential since our drinking water depends on groundwater sources. Conversely, ongoing soil management practices that reduce topsoil and soil life will increase the water needed for crop growth. During drought periods, this situation becomes especially problematic for those near irrigators, as their wells may run dry. Our choices for entertainment need to reflect our need for fresh water and the needs of many other species who share this planet with us.

   What are some solutions? Polyculture, small-scale food production, landscaping for resilience and diversity, and recreational choices that are not taxing on the environment. Life on Earth relies on fresh, clean water to survive. Our choices now will affect the future generations to come.

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