Conservation of water
We depend on surface water bodies and ground water to meet all needs. Despite the fact that he water cycle continually regenerates these sources of water, many parts f the world have been facing an acute shortage of water. Deforestation, overuse of ground water for irrigation and domestic use, and pollution of surface water bodies are among the causes for the shorting of water. We have already discussed the pollution of water and the steps hat can be taken to reduce it. Let us now consider the measures that can be taken to enhance our water resources.
Land and water bodies
a) A stream or river falling over a cliff or rock.
b) An area of water separated from the sea by sand dunes.
c) A natural spring that sands hot water or steam up in to the air.
d) A natural course of water that flows across land to the sea.
e) A triangular and where a river has split into smaller rivers before entering the sea.
f) a piece of land surrounded by water
g) a large area of water surrounded by land
Reducing waste
Not wasting water is the first step in conserving water. Those of us who are lucky enough to get piped water should remember that many people have to walk or miles to get water. Also, a lot of resources are required for the treatment and supply of water. Reducing waste applies to industrial and agricultural use of water as well.
Afforestation
As we have already discussed, trees help to recharge groundwater by slowing down the run-off of rainwater. By checking the flow of water, trees also help to reduce the risk of floods. Lastly, transpiration by trees increases the chances of rain.
Water harvesting
Rainwater harvests or water harvesting means trapping water from nature and putting it to use. By `trapping’ we mean collecting water that would otherwise have run off. There are many ways o doing this. A simple way of harvesting water for domestic use is to collect the water that usually runs off roofs. This is done by letting the water flow into gutters around the roof, and then through pipes into a collection tank. If the water is allowed to seep into ground, instead of following into a tank, the same system can be used to recharge ground water.
India has a tradition of water harvesting, which is now being received. Check dams across streams, earthen dams across ravines, ponds and tanks for the storage of rain water, underground channels to collect the water that seeps through hills- different systems are used in different parts of the country.
Water lands
These are low- lying areas covered by shallow water or areas where the water table is at or very close to the surface. They are excellent reservoirs for rainwater and provide a natural drainage system for the surrounding areas. Conserving those means are conserving rainwater, and preventing floods, since rainwater from the surrounding higher grounds drains into wetlands. Wetlands also help to recharge groundwater.
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