Is diverting water from the Owens Valley fair in your opinion? Why or why not?
The correct answer and explanation is :
The diversion of water from Owens Valley to Los Angeles, initiated in 1913, raises significant ethical concerns. While it addressed Los Angeles’ growing water demands, the method employed—characterized by deceitful acquisition of water rights and the subsequent environmental degradation of Owens Valley—was unjust.(Wikipedia)
Unjust Practices in Water Acquisition
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), under the direction of William Mulholland, employed deceptive tactics to acquire water rights in Owens Valley. These included posing as farmers to purchase land and water rights, often under false pretenses. This manipulation left the local community with little recourse, as they were coerced into selling their land and water rights at undervalued prices .(Wikipedia)
Environmental and Health Consequences
The diversion led to the desiccation of Owens Lake by 1926, transforming it from a vital water source into a dry, alkaline dust bowl. This environmental catastrophe resulted in severe air quality issues, with the lakebed becoming the largest single source of particulate matter pollution in the United States . Additionally, the loss of water devastated local agriculture, leading to economic collapse and the displacement of the indigenous Paiute people .(Wikipedia, PBS SoCal, healthebay.org)
Legal and Social Unrest
The injustice faced by Owens Valley residents culminated in the 1924 sabotage of the aqueduct by local farmers, an act of desperation against the overwhelming power of Los Angeles . Despite these efforts, Los Angeles maintained control over the water resources, leaving the Owens Valley community marginalized and voiceless.(digital-desert.com)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the diversion of water from Owens Valley was not fair. It involved unethical practices, caused extensive environmental harm, and led to significant social and economic injustices for the local community. The legacy of these actions continues to affect the region, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in resource management.