TOKYO-2020 Science / Environment

Agriculture & Water Management In The Coachella Valley

  • Prize
    Bronze in Editorial/Environmental, Bronze in Science/Environment
  • Photographer
    Aya Okawa
  • Technical Info
    Nikon D850
  • Photo Date
    November 2019

The early 1900's agricultural boom in the Coachella Valley quickly led to farmers seeking 'imported water' sources for irrigation via a canal siphoning water from the Colorado River. The adjacent Salton Sea also saw decreasing water levels as its feeding tributaries were redirected for agricultural use and population demands,  causing receding coastlines, collapse of local biodiversity, & toxic dust-related health issues in residents. This photo series explores the landscapes of a thriving agricultural valley, located in the middle of a desert landscape and dependent on 'imported water.'

www.aya.photo