Downriver: Into the Future of Water in the West

The Green River, a significant tributary of the Colorado River, is crucial, overused, and at risk. Heather Hansman paddled the river from source to confluence to see what the experience might teach her about the present-and future-of water in the west.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 March 2019
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The Green River, a vital tributary of the Colorado River, spans a remarkable distance of 730 miles, originating from the majestic glaciers of Wyoming and ending in the arid canyons of Utah. Along its winding path, the river meanders through a diverse landscape, including ranches, bustling cities, renowned national parks, and precious habitats for endangered fish species. Moreover, it serves as a vital source of water for a staggering 33 million people, making it a crucial, overused, and increasingly vulnerable resource.

The Green River has faced numerous challenges over the years. Dams have been constructed to control its flow, resulting in reduced water levels and altered ecosystems. Irrigation practices have further depleted the river's water supply, while urbanization has led to the drying up of sections due to increased water consumption. These factors have combined to place the Green River at a critical juncture, where its future is uncertain and the stakes are high.

The ongoing disputes over the river's water allocation and management have been longstanding and complex. As the west continues to experience the effects of climate change, with hotter temperatures and drier conditions, the demand for water resources is growing. This has led to increased competition for the Green River's water, with various stakeholders vying for their share. The conflicts over water rights, allocation, and conservation have become increasingly intractable, and the situation is only expected to worsen in the coming years.

Heather Hansman, a former raft guide and environmental reporter, was deeply aware of these ongoing battles. However, she was driven by a desire to gain a different perspective—to see the Green River from the river's own point of view. She embarked on a remarkable journey, paddling a one-person inflatable pack raft from the river's source to its confluence. Along the way, she encountered a diverse range of people, including farmers, city officials, and fellow river enthusiasts, who shared their insights and experiences related to water in the west.

Downriver is the captivating story of Hansman's journey, a thoughtful exploration of the present and future of water in the American West. Through her lyrical accounts of quiet paddling through breathtaking landscapes and her lively discussions with the people she met, Hansman provides a unique and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the Green River. She sheds light on the complex interplay between human activities, environmental concerns, and the delicate balance of water resources in the region.

One of the key themes of Downriver is the impact of dams on the river's ecosystem. Hansman highlights the ecological consequences of dam construction, including the loss of habitat for fish and other aquatic species, altered water flows, and the potential for thermal pollution. She also explores the historical context of dam building in the west, highlighting the economic and development benefits that have been associated with it. However, she also raises important questions about the long-term sustainability of dam operations and the need for a more holistic approach to water management.

Another important aspect of Downriver is the role of irrigation in depleting the river's water supply. Hansman discusses the historical and cultural significance of irrigation in the west, as well as the economic benefits it provides to farmers and communities. However, she also raises concerns about the ecological impact of irrigation practices, including the depletion of groundwater resources, soil erosion, and the loss of biodiversity. She advocates for a more sustainable approach to irrigation, including the use of drip irrigation, water conservation techniques, and the restoration of wetlands and other natural habitats.

Urbanization is another significant challenge facing the Green River. Hansman explores the impact of cities on the river's water supply and ecosystem, highlighting the increased demand for water resources and the potential for water pollution. She also discusses the challenges faced by communities in managing their water resources, including the need for infrastructure upgrades, water conservation measures, and public education.

Throughout Downriver, Hansman emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication in addressing the challenges facing the Green River. She highlights the need for stakeholders from various sectors, including government, industry, agriculture, and environmental organizations, to work together to find sustainable solutions to water management. She also advocates for the inclusion of local communities in decision-making processes, as they are often the most affected by water-related issues.

In conclusion, Downriver is a captivating and thought-provoking book that provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the Green River. Through Heather Hansman's journey and her insightful discussions with a diverse range of people, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between human activities, environmental concerns, and the delicate balance of water resources in the American West. It serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to work together to find sustainable solutions to water management and to protect the precious resources that we rely on for our survival.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 164 x 236 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226432670