Troubling the Water: A Dying Lake and a Vanishing World in Cambodia

Troubling the Water is a documentary film that explores the rapid destruction of Cambodia's Tonle Sap Lake, which has been a source of livelihood and inspiration for millions for centuries. The lake is dying due to hydropower dams, illegal fishing, and climate change, and the film follows ordinary Cambodians coping with the erasure of a long-held way of life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Troubling the Water delves into the intricate dynamics of one of the world's most productive inland fisheries, shedding light on the devastating impact of the rapid destruction of a single lake in Cambodia. The Tonle Sap Lake, a vital source of sustenance and prosperity for centuries, has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of the Kingdom of Angkor. Fed by the rich, mud-colored waters of the mighty Mekong River, this ecological marvel has captivated poets, artisans, and explorers throughout history. However, today, the lake is facing an imminent threat of extinction. Hydropower dams, constructed to harness the lake's energy, impound billions of gallons of water, disrupting critical fish migration paths and endangering the survival of various species. Illegal fishing, aided by corruption, has become rampant, further exacerbating the lake's decline. Additionally, the changing climate has brought about a series of devastating droughts, further exacerbating the lake's challenges.

Troubling the Water follows the lives of ordinary Cambodians as they grapple with the rapid erasure of their long-held way of life. Through years of reporting in Cambodia, journalist Abby Seiff intricately weaves together vivid stories of those most affected by the lake's decline, providing a deep insight into the plight of this one of the most threatened lakes in the world. The stakes are high, as millions of people rely on the Tonle Sap Lake for their livelihoods, making its preservation a critical priority.

The film highlights the devastating consequences of human activities on the environment, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and conservation efforts. It serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations. Troubling the Water is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and it encourages viewers to take action to protect the world's precious lakes and rivers.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781640124769