System in Crisis Part 1

This program examines the complex interaction between nature and human activity in the Murray-Darling Basin from early settlement to the present. Focusing on water as a resource, it explores: Geographic characteristics of the region, forms of agriculture and importance of region's food production. Distribution of water resources, challenges faced by early farmers and other settlers. Historical development of water management policies. Development of water storage and irrigation methods, and the Snowy Mountains Scheme emergence of environmental problems.