water, water (not) everywhere...

Right now we're fighting around the world for oil. In the not-so-distant future, don't be surprised if we go to war over an even more valuable resource: water. From the Gant Daily:

Are Water Wars in our Future?

By Lisa Duchene

"Freshwater access is a classic example of the tragedy of the commons," said Robert B. Packer, lecturer in political science at Penn State, who studies international political economy and the causes of war. "As with all common resources, unlimited demand and waste by some can lead to depletion of the resource for all. The hydroelectric dams that power the air conditioners of Las Vegas and Phoenix have depleted the waters of the Colorado River for agriculture. Heavy pesticide and fertilizer chemical use in agriculture has spoiled drinking water in many parts of the globe."

Now before you get all apoplectic about Vegas corporate interests depleting the planet, holster it. The Nevada tourism industry has been out in front of this crisis, leaning on the hotels and casinos to conserve water.

NPR did a story about it back in 2003: Las Vegas Copes with New Water-Use Limits

They also covered it last year during its Struggling Over Water series:

• Stakes High for Las Vegas Water Czar
• Las Vegas Water Battle: Crops vs Craps