Water Conservation

  • Why are there Golf Courses in the Desert?

    Why are there Golf Courses in the Desert?

    With an annual average of just 9.5 inches of precipitation, Nevada wins the title of driest state in the United States. Nevadans thus heavily depend on Lake Mead and the Colorado River that feeds it to fulfill their water needs. These life and commerce-sustaining resources, however, are undergoing a historic,…

  • The Conservation Effects of a Variable Tax on Groundwater Withdrawal

    The Conservation Effects of a Variable Tax on Groundwater Withdrawal

    In the United States, water resources have been historically plentiful, and groundwater consumption is generally not well-managed. However, as demand increases and the effects of climate change strain groundwater resources, the need to monitor consumption habits rises. Policymakers must undertake the challenge of striking a balance between economic performance of…

  • The Unintended Consequences of Subsidized Irrigation Conservation

    The Unintended Consequences of Subsidized Irrigation Conservation

    Government-led, cost share programs enabling US farmers to adopt water-saving irrigation systems may actually be increasing water use. Changing the way water rights are defined might help.

  • The Green Space Chase: Property Values in Arid Climates

    The Green Space Chase: Property Values in Arid Climates

    Homebuyers are willing to pay a green premium, so long as they aren’t near public parks and golf courses.