Human values and perceptions of water in arid landscapes

Human perceptions and values regarding water in arid landscapes are multi-faceted. Water is valued for life sustaining and practical aspects such as drinking, bathing, and cooking. Water is also one of the most important and most attractive visual elements of the landscape. Water has important effects on landforms through sedimentation and erosion, and on the types, quantities and distributions of vegetation, aquatic organisms, and wildlife. In arid landscapes especially, there are a wide range of cultural, spiritual, and religious values related to water. Changes in water regimes and the associated changes in landforms, vegetation and wildlife can have significant effects on many different types of human perceptions and values. Current policies for water management emphasize technical standards and legal regulations that address only a few of the relevant human values, primarily those involving consumptive uses. More comprehensive water policies addressing the broader array of human perceptions, meanings and values related to water are needed, especially in arid areas.