Water is a major, limiting resource in the western United States.
Ironically, water also provides or at least participates in some of the
most stunning scenery there as well. Crystal clear streams, cascades,
waterfalls and lakes of alpine regions of the Weminuche Wilderness,
Bridger Wilderness and Yosemite National Park in the Rockies sparkle, glisten and provide havens
for wildlife and back country hikers alike. The steaming geysers and hotsprings
pf Yellowstone National Park and the foul
mudpots and sulphur springs of Lassen National Volcanic Park (included
on the next page) could not provide a more stark contrast.