Water Scarcity in San Diego: Diversifying Water Resources and Conservation Strategies - Pr, Papers of Mechanical Engineering

Download Water Scarcity in San Diego: Diversifying Water Resources and Conservation Strategies - Pr and more Papers Mechanical Engineering in PDF only on Docsity! Gille-MAE 124/ESYS 103, Spring 2009 1 Paper 1: Water Resources San Diego imports up to 90% of its water from the Metropolitan Water District, whose primary sources have been the Colorado River and State Water project deliveries. These water sources are in jeopardy, both because of decreased precipitation within California and because of changes in the allocation of Colorado River water. San Diego desperately needs to diversify its water supply and make better use of the water that we have? Choose one topic: 1. Would you support plans for a desalination facility at San Onofre, powered by nuclear energy? Why or why not? If not, how do you propose San Diego diversify its water resources and reduce reliance on the two main remote delivery systems? OR 2. Would you support expanded use of household “gray water” systems as a means to extend conservation efforts? Why or why not? If not, how do you propose to achieve regional water conservation goals? Guidelines for the Paper: Your paper should be 4-5 double-spaced pages (1000-1250 words). A one-grade penalty will be assessed for papers that are not within this guideline. Many of the solutions to environmental problems are extremely controversial. We are looking for evidence-based approaches to environmental problems. This means that you should take a close look at published information (such as peer-reviewed scientific papers and government documents), before deciding on a position. You should be able to back up your position with a preponderance of evidence—you can’t just cherry-pick the facts to suit a personal preference. Your paper should take the following form: • Introduction — A brief description of the issue. — A clear (one-sentence) statement of your position. • Background — A brief, unbiased description of the roots of the controversy. — Necessary background information. — Unbiased discussion of both sides of the issue, including motivations behind op- posing views. • Position — Arguments that support your position (recognizing and addressing opposing view- points) • Conclusion