Planning For & Locating Water Sources
Planning For Water On The Trail
Water on the trails is an essential for everyone. Prepping for this is essential to ensure a supply of water is always at the ready. Other characteristics of water to keep in mind are weight, quality, estimated need and where to resupply. Knowing these things before heading out give the hiker a safety advantage on disaster and unforeseen emergency.
Facts Of Water
Knowing a few things about water will help when making decisions on how to use and pack it. Water is a resource that should be viewed in the same light as any other necessity. Without water over a long enough timeline, you will die. As a general rule water weighs 1 lb/pint (16 fluid oz). Water found in the wild requires filtration. For everyone, individual daily water intake will varry. Strenuous movement and effort will require more water than usual.
Pitfalls Of Water
Though we need water to survive, we need quality water which is healthy to consume. Viruses, bacteria, particulate matter, chemicals are all some examples of what we need to avoid to stay healthy and functional. From minor discomfort to complete sickness and even death, water quality is important. Knowing how to avoid the negative consequences is paramount. Being able to treat and address effects of consuming poor quality water is also important. Through boiling, water filters, water purifiers and chemical treatments, we have many tools at our disposal to address this issue.
Sources Of Water
When searching for water you want to first consider your environment. Finding water in a coniferous forest is different than locating water in a sandy dessert. The season also may come into play as some locales have rainy/dry seasons. There are natural and there are manmade water sources to keep an eye out for. After you locate a possible source, consider how safe it is to consume and what you may need to do so that you can drink it.
For manmade sources you will need to look for structures or foundations of some sort. Wells, water mills or animal watering locations are some of the more prevalent examples. Keep in mind that though this may have been a reliable water source for humans at one point, it may have sense become polluted. Never completely trust any water source. Water can be pulled out of plants by means of distillation as well with crude tools/materials.
Natural water sources may be located in areas of shade or coverage. Beneath rocks, under thirsty plant life and beneath the surface level you can find water as little as 1 inch below. Note locations of springs on maps or where there may be a seasonal stream, given the land features. If possible, collect rain water. Lastly, animals also depend on water consumption to live as well. Keep an eye out for tracks to follow when times get tough.
Bottom Line
When it comes to water there are several methods best suited for different environments. Keep in mind that without water you will not make it very long. Water is a life staple for humans but also for animals as well. Know where you can pick up water along the way and always prepare with an extra supply for plans that go wrong. Treating and filtering water sourced are mandatory, if you can do so try to purify. Know what to do if you become sick from a water-related illness. Be smart, learn much and use the information which you pick up to your benefit.
