Watershed: Exploring a New Water Ethic for the New West

"Watershed: Exploring a New Water Ethic for the New West" is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary film that premiered in 2012. The movie burns with the engaging performances of Greg Bunn, Jeff Ehlert, and Dan James and is intertwined with a powerful message about the conservation and sustainability of water resources. It travels to the heart of the ongoing water crisis in the American West, aiming to change the conversation about how we, as a resource-dependent nation, can approach water management for the sake of future generations.

The documentary unfolds against the vast and dramatic backdrop of the Colorado River Basin, which supports over 40 million residents across seven American states and two Mexican states. As viewers journey down the river, they are presented with a frank exploration of the strains on the water supply, exacerbated by climate change, population growth, and a ravaging drought. The once mighty Colorado River, a watercourse that has shaped the landscape of the Southwest and provides water to an enormous swath of the continent, is a prime symbol and a startling testament to the impact of extensive, often unsustainable water usage.

Directed by renowned filmmaker Robert Redford, the film takes an innovative, forward-thinking approach to solving the water crisis. He deploys a narrative that is delivered in the distinctive, empathetic voices of real people who live and work across the Colorado River Basin. From ranchers and farmers to conservationists and city-dwelling water users, characters like Greg Bunn, Jeff Ehlert, and Dan James play key roles, offering unique perspectives on the water usage issue.

Greg Bunn, a rancher with deep roots in the West, talks about moving away from practices that might have worked for his ancestors but are no longer suitable considering the challenges besetting our water systems. Jeff Ehlert, a fly fishing guide in Rocky Mountain National Park, voices concerns over diminishing water levels affecting the people, the land, and the ecosystem that depends on the Colorado River. Dan James, a daring whitewater rafting guide, takes viewers on an adrenaline-pumping ride down the river's once powerful currents, discussing the river's declining health and its effect on the community.

Contrasting with these personal narratives, the film also showcases interviews with a range of experts who provide insights into the severity of the situation. These include environmental scientists, water management experts, and sustainability advocates. The discussions and debates aired through these interviews significantly add to the depth and educational value of the film, providing viewers with a well-rounded understanding of the pressing water crisis.

One of the most striking aspects of "Watershed: Exploring a New Water Ethic for the New West" lies in its innovative dedication to solutions. Too often, environmental documentaries present grave problems without offering much hope for the future. However, this film emphasizes solution-based talks. It encourages viewers to move away from the old water management ethics that have led us to unsustainable use and criticizes the inequities of water distribution throughout the Basin.

The film's core message revolves around developing a new water ethic. It calls for the transition from the century-old, ingrained habit of considering water as an unlimited resource to a modern understanding of water as a precious, finite resource that must be conserved and used wisely. To illustrate, the documentary beautifully captures a variety of water conservation initiatives across the river basin area, showcasing citizen-led efforts, new technological developments, and policy alternatives that sustain both human and ecological needs.

Visually stunning, emotionally charged, and critically important, "Watershed: Exploring a New Water Ethic for the New West" is more than just a film. It is a call for action and education aimed at shaping public sentiment and moving policy toward more sustainable water management. This film serves as a thrilling exploration of the future of water in the west and a persuasive plea for change. It is a must-see for environmentalists, educators, policy-makers, or anyone interested in understanding the tangible realities of the global water crisis and how we can better manage and sustain our most precious resource.