ELi5 Why can’t we build massive transnational water pipelines (like with oil) to transport water from large fresh water sources to drier areas?

Question

Obviously this wouldn’t relieve the issues caused by low snowpack and decreasing precipitation, but it could supplement the water used for everyday living or agriculture during times of drought right?

In: 6

Answer 1

We would do this if it was affordable. There is plenty of water, but not at the “almost free” price people want to pay. When a pipeline is the right answer, there is just no water, because you can’t run the pumps to pump water through the pipeline for what it sells for. There are giant pipelines in CA and tunnels in NY, with prices to match.