Explain why water use by humans has increased dramatically in the past century or so.

Discuss how much water is taken up by each water use.
Explain the difference between consumptive and non-consumptive water uses.
What is the origin of California's fresh water supply?
Vocabulary

aquaculture
consumptive water use
drip irrigation
non-consumptive water use
Introduction

What is the most important thing for all life on Earth? Arguably, it is water (arguably, because a lot of other things are needed for life, too). From the smallest bacteria to the largest trees, all forms of life on Earth depend on water for survival. Although you could likely go a few weeks without eating, people cannot survive for more than a few days without drinking water.

Human Uses of Water

Besides drinking and washing, people need water for agriculture, industry, household uses, and recreation (Figure below). Recreational use and environmental use average 1% each.