#12739
Mentioned in 3 episodes
Cadillac desert
the American West and its disappearing water
Book • 1986
In 'Cadillac Desert', Marc Reisner masterfully narrates the captivating yet unsettling tale of the American West's transformation through colossal water management schemes.
The book exposes the audacious visions, political machinations, and unsustainable illusions that have shaped the region's water resources.
It documents the early settlers' pursuit of promised paradises, the ruthless tactics of Los Angeles politicians and business interests, and the bitter rivalry between the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers.
The narrative includes the construction of the Hoover Dam and the environmental and social costs of humanity's attempt to conquer nature.
The revised edition includes a postscript by Lawrie Mott, updating Western water issues over the last two decades, including the impact of climate change.
The book exposes the audacious visions, political machinations, and unsustainable illusions that have shaped the region's water resources.
It documents the early settlers' pursuit of promised paradises, the ruthless tactics of Los Angeles politicians and business interests, and the bitter rivalry between the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers.
The narrative includes the construction of the Hoover Dam and the environmental and social costs of humanity's attempt to conquer nature.
The revised edition includes a postscript by Lawrie Mott, updating Western water issues over the last two decades, including the impact of climate change.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 3 episodes
Mentioned by 
Ellory Smith while discussing her experience living in Los Angeles and comparing it to the Italian coast.
Ellory Smith while discussing her experience living in Los Angeles and comparing it to the Italian coast.
Los Angeles Deserves Better (with Ellory Smith)
Mentioned by 
Cullum Clark while discussing the historical power of lobbying for dam construction in the US.
Cullum Clark while discussing the historical power of lobbying for dam construction in the US.
How Do You Build More Housing When No One Wants Neighborhood Change?
Mentioned by Sayd Randle as an influential book that sparked their interest in environmental studies and water management.
Sayd Randle, "Replumbing the City: Water Management as Climate Adaptation in Los Angeles" (U California Press, 2025)
Mentioned by Sayd Randle as an influential book that sparked their interest in environmental studies and water management.
Sayd Randle, "Replumbing the City: Water Management as Climate Adaptation in Los Angeles" (U California Press, 2025)
