Beyond the Mirage:The Future of Water in the West

Beyond the Mirage: The Future of Water in the West is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that premiered in 2016. Directed by Cody Sheehy and narrated by Linda Ellerbee, the film unpacks the critical and urgent water issues confronting the Western United States. Notable appearances by distinguished field experts like Robert Glennon, Jon Kyl, and Pat Mulroy, among others, lend credibility and fascinating perspectives to the documentary.

At the core of Beyond the Mirage is a heightened focus on water scarcity problems in the West, especially the desert areas, where water shortages are not only a looming threat but a present crisis. This issue is acutely important given that water is not just a crucial life resource but also instrumental in powering the region's economic operations such as farming, electricity production, mining, and other industrial activities. The documentary seeks to spark fierce conversations around this environmental crisis and urges people to confront these challenges head-on.

The film's backdrop largely rests on the exploitation of the Colorado River, which supplies water to seven states and parts of Mexico. The documentary details the complexities in the management of this massive river system and the impending catastrophe if not managed well. It goes a step further to portray the potential future of water in the West, considering factors such as population growth, climate change, outdated water laws, and technology.

Robert Glennon, a respected law professor and author, adds his extensive knowledge on the subject to the documentary. Armed with detailed insights from his book, "Unquenchable: America's Water Crisis and What To Do About It", Glennon provides an eye-opening account of the water shortage in the West and poses crucial questions about future sustainability.

Jon Kyl, a former U.S. Senator from Arizona, further elaborates on the political and legal hurdles that water management in the West faces. Kyl's perspective as a legislator associated with Arizona, a state at the forefront of this crisis, adds a unique dimension to the narrative. His pragmatic approach to analyzing water policies and regulations emphasizes the importance of a unified and committed response to this matter.

Respected water manager Pat Mulroy becomes the voice of reason in the film, expounding on her experiences as the General Manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority. Through her, viewers gain an understanding of the intricacies of managing water supplies, as well as the tough decisions that must be made to navigate through severe droughts and uncertain climatic patterns.

The filmmakers have done an outstanding job of presenting complex issues in an approachable, engaging, and digestible manner. They have meticulously balanced the inclusion of scientific fact, expert commentary, personal anecdotes, and historical context to create a comprehensive picture of the grave situation and the possible solutions. The visuals in the film deserve special mention as well. Stunning footage of the Colorado river and the arid western landscapes powerfully reassert the enormity of the crisis.

Beyond the Mirage is not just a disheartening portrayal of a bleak problem but also a beacon of hope with its discussion on potential solutions. The documentary extensively explores innovative technologies and groundbreaking strategies to resolve the crisis. Stunning advancements in water purification and recycling, changes in farming practices, and grassroots conservation efforts prove that while the situation is critical, it is not hopeless.

In essence, Beyond the Mirage: The Future of Water in the West is more than just a documentary; it's an urgent call to action. It encourages viewers to not just understand the magnitude of the problem but also to rethink their attitudes towards water usage. It profoundly underscores the fact that water scarcity is not an isolated environmental issue but a societal one that demands immediate attention, collective action, and sustainable solutions. The Future of Water in the West is truly a must-watch for anyone concerned about the future sustainability of water in the western United States.