The Health of Our Water [antikvár]

ForewordMany systems in our world are dependent on waternatural systems, such as biological communities, and human systems, including towns and cities, industry, and agriculture. All these users have an effect on the water resource, and all have an interest in issues of water quantity and water quality. But because this resource is relatively plentiful in Canada, it may be taken for granted and used without adequate care.Farmers are sensitive to water issues, because their crops and animals need sufficient quantities of good-quality water. In most areas in Canada, rainfall supplies crops with needed water. However, in many areas water also comes from surface runoff, watercourses such as streams and rivers, or groundwater sources. Too much or too little water, or water at the wrong time, decreases agricultural production. The extremes, namely droughts or floods, can have disastrous effects. Farmers and other rural residents and industries must share this resource with fish and wildlife, and with those who enjoy the many recreational benefits of our rural landscape.The water resource is affected naturally over time in many ways. Erosion alters the constituents carried by water. Leachates reaching groundwater change its chemical composition. Also, climate change causes new runoff patterns. Many of these long-term changes can be speeded up or made worse by human activity. For example, the quantity or timing of supply may change at critical times of the year; or water may be contaminated by chemicals or living organisms, and its usefulness diminished. Such changes may be subtle and go unnoticed at first.It is important that the health of our water be monitored so we can understand the changes taking place. Only then can we take corrective actions as needed. The Health of Our Water is an important document that summarizes much useful information on the state of rural water in Canada. Among other things, it shows that water quality is intimately connected to soil quality, improving where soil conservation practices are used.With contributions from almost 100 authors, this book draws on the experience and knowledge of experts from a wide range of fieldsagronomy, soil science, agricultural engineering, agricultural policy, hydrogeology, meteorology, water chemistry, aquatic biology, and wildlife conservation, among others. This diversity of authorship ensures a balanced treatment of the subject, with fair consideration of the many views held by various stakeholders. Using a variety of research findings and case studies, The Health of Our Water provides a broad picture of water quantity and quality in Canada as they are affected by agriculture, and as they affect agriculture itself. It will be useful in identifying issues for immediate action and will also serve as a benchmark against which to measure future changes.This book bolsters Canada's international reputation of being in the vanguard of research and reporting on environmental interests. It is a welcome addition to the pool of information on natural resources and the environment that is available to farmers, the non-farming public, politicians, government agencies, and educational institutions.Harry M. HillSenior Policy Fellow, SaskatchewanInstitute of Public Policy Former Director General, Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration and Chairman, Canadian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage