Build a transcontinental aqueduct to capture Midwest water

During the 20th century, a system of dams was built in California to create reservoirs for storing water during the spring run-off from snow melt in the mountain regions.

Aqueducts brought water from the Sierra to the cities and farmlands. But now after four years of drought, the state is experiencing critical water shortages. At the same time, during the winter and spring of 2015, there has been a surplus of snow and rain on the East Coast and in parts of the Midwest.

It is time to start thinking about building a transcontinental aqueduct. For starters, a pipeline could be built from Lake Superior to Texas and from there head west through New Mexico and Arizona and on into California. Storage reservoirs could be created along the route. The aqueduct should be able to send water in both directions in order to bring drought relief where needed.

The construction of this project would create thousands of jobs. Perhaps the building of other such projects would follow.

This story was originally published October 1, 2015 at 9:01 AM with the headline "Build a transcontinental aqueduct to capture Midwest water."