Without water, the world would cease to exist. The once fertile and green lands would inevitably become barren and useless. Forests, grasslands and other key habitats would disappear in the blink of an eye, leaving tens of thousands of species defenseless. Our society and life as we know it would be upended as wars ensue over natural resources and ownership of whatever water may remain. Although many believe that our current water supply is not so limited and that our society is far from being on the brink of disaster, in many parts of the world, water depletion has already generated some of these harmful impacts. Over the past decade, Texas has witnessed a number of both societal and environmental changes within its borders due to a significant shortage of water resources. This water supply deficit is not only due to its overconsumption and inefficient use, but perhaps even more so to the historic droughts that have hit the state in recent years. The 2011 drought was reportedly even worse than the record drought of the 1950s, making 2011 the driest year on record in the state with an average rainfall of only 14.8 inches (6). Combined with the scorching summer heat, the drought has left many rivers and reservoirs used for residential purposes completely dry, as increased evaporation has significantly reduced surface water levels throughout Texas . Although the state has been fortunate to receive more rainfall in the last two years, thereby improving the situation. devastating effects of drought, according to state climatologist John-Nielsen Gammon, “more than 90 percent of Texas” still suffers from some form of drought (6). In the summer of 2011, nearly half the state found itself in the middle of paper......uh?" Oklahoma RSS. Npr, September 20, 2013. Web. .22. Wertz, Joe . “The Supreme Court's ruling won't stop Texas from trying to buy water from Oklahoma. " Oklahoma RSS. Npr, June 21, 2013. Web. .23. Wertz, Joe. " Texas' demand for Oklahoma water still active despite Supreme Court decision. " Oklahoma RSS. Npr, October 25, 2013. Web .24. Wertz, Joe "The Evolution of Oklahoma Water Policy ».. .