1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

We are losing fresh water, and people are going to die unless decisive action is taken to protect it. For too long, groundwater aquifers have been exploited at an unsustainable rate, with nearly 6 billion people living in 101 countries facing a net decline in water supply. This unrestrained groundwater pumping accounts for a staggering 68% of the total loss of fresh water, exacerbating the ongoing continental drying crisis. The consequences are dire – not only are arid "mega" regions merging across entire continents, but the loss of this vital groundwater is a leading contributor to rising sea levels. As water from aquifers runs off into oceans, it is fueling coastal flooding and the displacement of communities. The drying of the planet has accelerated alarmingly, with an area twice the size of California drying out each year since 2014. I live in the high desert in Oregon, and we are already being affected by the water crisis. Continuing on this path risks widespread famine, forced migration, and geopolitical instability on an unprecedented scale. Congress must act swiftly to establish nationwide regulations and oversight on groundwater extraction. A comprehensive federal water strategy is crucial to preserving and equitably managing this precious resource for current and future generations. The data is clear – the status quo is unsustainable and will have catastrophic consequences if left unchecked. Decisive leadership is needed to avoid a civilization-threatening water crisis.