Water Usage March 6, 2008

I would have to agree with the viewpoint of the author in the story about the fight over water usage. Taking water out of the rivers in order to accommodate the lack of water available due to the drought is not the solution. Florida already has enough problems with the water supply, while tapping into rivers may seem like a temporary solution it is only going to create greater damage for us in the future. The writer is trying to explain the lack of concern the public has for our environment and the economic disaster that can occur if we continue to take the quickest route to fix a problem.

            In a country fixated on materialistic things it would seem like shopping centers are more important than the diminishing wetlands. Agreeing to restore a few acres of wetlands doesn’t make the decision to destroy others okay. I agree with building the shopping centers into two stories rather than destroy unnecessary acres of wetlands. Even though it will cost more money it is worth saving a valuable aspect of the environment. Again, going with the easiest and cheapest route for a problem will only cause more damage to our environment.

Thoughts on Fossil Creek Documentary March 6, 2008

     I thought that the documentary on Fossil Creek was very interesting and informative. It provided a lot of information on exactly what environmental organizations strive to accomplish. It also showed that what may seem like an impossible and arduous task can be well worth the effort in the end. I believe that the environmental organizations seized the agenda at Fossil Creek. They all worked extremely hard together and as a result they were able to create a better environment for not only the animals but for the people as well. There were many uses for Fossil Creek; a habitat for animals, a land mark and as a source of electricity. The streams provided electricity for the entire state of Arizona allowing the state to function economically.

            It has a long history ranging from human culture to animal life. This documentary also depicted how easily animal’s habitats can be corrupted and causes them to readapt to their environment.

Water Pollution in Pensacola, FL March 6, 2008

     I researched water pollution going on in the Pensacola area. I found that there have been a number of concerns rising from the possible pollution of the water. The groundwater contains traces of chemicals that can be detrimental to the health of Pensacola citizens. The cause of the water pollution has been linked to various factors including landfills, negligence and through other contaminated areas in the Pensacola area. It was found that more than half of the county’s drinking water is contaminated with several harmful toxins. The drinking water’s main source is the Sand-and-Gravel Aquifer which is not in a remote location meaning that it can quickly and easily become contaminated.  They say that there aren’t very high levels of pollution in the water, not to cause any serious concerns but a little goes a long way for children. Their bodies aren’t as strong and defensive as ours so the little pollution that is in the water is going to be worse for them than it will be for adults.

            Another form of water pollution is due to the amount of rain that has been hitting the area, causing large amounts of red clay to leak into the bay. The clay is a result of roadwork that has been going on for more than five years.