“California has a remarkable ability to weather extreme and prolonged droughts from an economic perspective.” A study of a virtual 72-year mega-drought suggests that California would somehow find a way to survive.

+ Hopefully that study is on the mark, because the conservation thing doesn’t seem to be working too well. Especially when it comes to California water officials, most of whom are using more water than the average household. One Riverside councilman uses enough water to supply 8 households. “Do I have to sell my house to set that example, or do I have to just abolish all my shrubs? I don’t know what to do.” (Hint: shrubs, abolish)

+ Vox: Our cities’ water systems are becoming obsolete.

+ Still not convinced of the importance of water? Then check out the secret of New York City’s mythic bagel-making water. (Thirst I can handle. But not lousy bagels.)