Freshwater Conservation and Dams

The video discusses the scarcity of accessible freshwater on Earth, highlighting human activities like overharvesting, pollution, and dam construction that exacerbate the problem. It showcases efforts to restore freshwater systems, such as the removal of the Elwha River dam, and emphasizes the importance of conservation. Viewers are encouraged to adopt simple water-saving habits to contribute to the protection of freshwater resources.

What percentage of Earth's freshwater is accessible on the surface?

• About 10%

• Less than 1%

• Approximately 25%

• More than 50%

Which human activity is described as using excessive amounts of water?

• Recycling

• Conservation

• Over-harvesting

• Composting

What is a major consequence of pollution in freshwater systems?

• Increased fish population

• More plant growth

• Cleaner water

• Sick or dying animals

How do dams affect the natural flow of rivers?

• They enhance it

• They have no effect

• They purify the water

• They cut it off

What was a significant problem caused by the dam on the Elwa River?

• Increased fish migration

• Warmer water temperatures

• More river space

• Cleaner water

How many dams have been removed in the United States since 1999?

• About 300

• About 100

• About 430

• About 200

What is one action individuals can take to help conserve water?

• Taking longer showers

• Leaving the faucet on

• Taking shorter showers

• Using more water

What is the goal of setting aside freshwater systems as protected areas?

• To reduce fish population

• To build more dams

• To prevent over-harvesting

• To increase pollution

What is the current state of the Elwa River after the dam removal?

• Worse than before

• Completely restored

• Still heavily polluted

• Looking better but not fully restored

What is the main message of the video regarding human actions?

• Water conservation is unnecessary

• Everyone can contribute to water conservation

• Only governments can save water

• Humans cannot impact freshwater