Proof California Can Beat the Drought

California is losing more water than it receives. Likewise, other states are in similar drought conditions. What would it take beat the drought? To ask another question, what would it take to turn a desert into an oasis capable of providing enough food and water for millions of people? [caption id="attachment_18552" align="alignright" width="300"] Restoration Israel[/caption] The answer? Ask Israel. The Middle Eastern country has fought for many millennia to produce a way to subsist in the desert. Now, Israel is something of a paradise. They didn’t reach this point overnight. It took time. Israel had to convince her population that their water wouldn’t last forever. There were sacrifices that had to be made. But, according to Alexander Kushnir, head of Israel’s Water Authority, it was their attitude towards the situation. They said they would beat the water shortage and dadgummit they did! It took improvising – including various water recycling methods – and developing innovative new technologies, such as drip irrigation (which is utilized all throughout North America). They have also chosen to plant crops that can succeed in an area that receives almost no rain at all throughout the year. Israel has made changes to the way they operate in regards to their water. Now, they are no longer lacking for water. So what can California, Nevada, and other drought-stricken states learn from Israel? For one thing, they can learn that it’s possible to beat the drought. But it might take some tough actions, sacrifices, and more innovation. In the case of Israel, it’s a country approximately the size of New Jersey, with just over 8 million people. California, on the other hand, boasts a population of just under 40 million. So of course, there will be differences in the way their drought is fought. But one of the takeaways here is that it’s all about attitude. No matter where you live, drought may pay a visit, or maybe it’s already worn out its welcome. No matter which category you fall under, overcoming the drought may require more than just not drinking water while eating out. While there’s not a whole lot you can do on a national or state level, you can still do your part. And, if you play your cards right, doing your part could help you conserve and save more water for you and your family to use later on. Like Israel, take initiative when it comes to conserving – and storing – water. Instead of watering your lawn, perhaps you could use some of that water to fill up containers for future use. Instead of taking a long shower, just be in and out as fast as you can and use the water you would have consumed to keep filling those water containers. Rain barrels are another option for collecting water, so if it ever does rain, you’ll be set. Recycle water when you can. Excess shower water can be used to water plants, for example. If you live close to the ocean, desalinators could become very useful. Desalinators take salt water (like that from the sea), subtracts the salt and other unpleasantries found therein, and leaves you with good, clean drinking water. Although they are rather expensive, they could be a life saver. Just like how Israel found ways to be self-sufficient with water, you can too. You may not be able to beat the drought for your state, but you can at least beat the drought for your family. How have you beat the drought you're in?