Throughline Going to the Source of L.A.'s Water
6 snips
Dec 16, 2024 Anya Steinberg, an associate producer at NPR, shares insights from her reporting trip to Owens Valley on the creation of the Los Angeles aqueduct. The conversation reveals the impact of the aqueduct on rural communities, particularly Indigenous rights and water management struggles. Anya explores the historical and emotional ramifications of this water infrastructure, touching on traditional irrigation practices of the Paiute and Shoshone tribes. She also raises moral questions about climate change and resource allocation, offering a rich perspective on sustainability.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Water in the West
- Anya Steinberg pitched a story about the L.A. aqueduct, focusing on the Owens Valley's perspective.
- The aqueduct transformed L.A. from a small town into a metropolis, but with consequences for the valley.
Shifting the Narrative
- The story of the L.A. aqueduct is often told from the L.A. perspective, focusing on the city's growth.
- Steinberg aimed to shift the narrative to the Owens Valley, exploring the impact of water diversion.
Road Trip to Owens Valley
- Steinberg drove from Oakland to the Owens Valley, a 10-hour journey through scenic California landscapes.
- The drive highlighted the rugged terrain and the historical challenges of building the aqueduct.