This course focuses on the flow, storage and use of fresh water in the United States and fundamental environmental conflicts that result from human intervention in hydrologic processes. Lectures and use of computer models about hydrology (surface water and groundwater) introduce discussion of topics such as dams and flooding, pollution of water with nutrients or toxic chemicals, and water-borne disease. Technical reports and readings in American prose are used to study attitudes about irrigation, water depletion and salinization, water law and economics, and aspects of the hydraulic empire of the American West. Format: lecture/discussion. Evaluation will be based on an hour exam, class participation, field trips, a term paper, and a final exam. No enrollment limit (expected: 32). This course satisfies "The Natural World" requirement for the Environmental Studies concentration.