California Quote by Marc Reisner
“If surface water can be compared with interest income, and non-renewable groundwater with capital, then much of the West was living mainly on interest income. California was milking interest and capital in about equal proportion. The plains states, however, were devouring capital as a gang of spendthrift heirs might squander a great capitalist's fortune.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner, 1982
It compares water resources to financial assets, warning that many regions overuse renewable water like interest while depleting non‑renewable groundwater like capital.
In simple terms: Regions misuse water like money, spending more than they earn.
Key Takeaway
Manage water as a finite resource.
Themes
resource management
environmental economics
sustainability
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
analytical
educational
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- agricultural policy
- household water use
- government budgeting
Key Concepts
water scarcity
financial analogy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance water use with replenishment?
- What policies can protect groundwater reserves?
A Different Perspective
Renewable water can also be depleted if not conserved.
