Wake Up California

We are in a severe drought. The utility companies are telling us this, the media is telling us this, the bright blue beautiful summer sky in the middle of what should be a dreary, rainy winter is telling us we are in a severe drought.

However, it is hard to believe when we turn on our faucets and the water runs fast and clean. So on to the photographic proof. John Wall is a Bay Area photographer who has covered the hills and forests for years, revisiting areas and monitoring the changes. He recently posted a comparison that shocked me. Check it out: John Wall's Natural California

If that doesn't make you think twice before leaving the water running while you brush your teeth, nothing will. Every drop saved helps so don't fall into the trap of thinking you are just one person, what difference can you make... Instead, make a difference one drop at a time.

Tips:

• Scrap your dishes after a meal instead of rinsing in running water.
• Turn off the water while you are brushing your teeth.
• Inspect your pipes and fix any leaks you may find. Even a slow drip wastes water over time.
• Use a compost bucket in your kitchen rather than the garbage disposal.
• Consider a drip watering system for your garden rather than running the hose for hours.
• Run your dishwasher and clothes washers with full loads.

For more tips on how to cut your water usage check out the websites listed below.

Senator Barbara Boxer
Santa Clara Valley Water District
Be Water Wise
California Water Service Group

Conservation

I've always believed that in order for people to care about something, be it an animal or piece of land or an historic structure, they must see it in order to have a connection. Paintings, Photographs and Films all serve to connect people to places and things which maybe far removed from their daily lives but warrant care and attention.

Most people living in major cities in the United States will never hear the booming call of a Greater-prairie chicken, or see a herd of Wild Horses running in the desert or see a Polar Bear napping outside their window. But Artists are in the unique position of bringing those animals into someone's home.

When you combine the arts with science and vision you can cultivate a true vessel for change. That's exactly what French Biologist Delphin Ruché is trying to accomplish. The stories and accompanying images he captures help to bring people into the realm of his subject. Delphin has also added a Guest of the Month section to his site that spotlights efforts by other photographers, researchers and biologists. This month is dedicated to the Greater-prairie chicken with a photo by yours truely. If you have a conservation related image or story, drop him a note and let him know as he is always on the look out for more material or just send him a note to tell him you are reading and appreciate what he is doing. Once you see his work I know you will be as impressed as I am. http://www.delphinruche.com/