Water is the key to life. These “primitive” techniques for water collection and purification are at the core of our understanding for collecting and purifying this precious liquid in the Permaculture model.
V. Water (The Hydrologic Cycle)
A. Identify the symptoms of dehydration and how proper hydration affects survivability
B. Identify pros and cons of various water substitutes
C. Participate in the construction of water gathering device for special conditions (desert, mountain, ocean, winter)
a. Desert still
b. Dew seep
c. Dew mop
d. Tree tap
e. Sip well
f. Bag condensation still
g. Rain trap
D. Discuss the importance of water purification to survival, and the dangers one might encounter
E. Demonstrate purifying methods one might use in a primitive camp
F. Use various modern and natural water purification systems
G. Identify methods used to locate water sources
a. Geographical
b. Botanical
c. Geological
d. Wildlife
H. Obtain water from plants and/or digging
I. Discuss how understanding the hydrologic cycle might lend to success in obtaining water
J. Construct a primitive water carrying device
a. Gourd canteen
b. Rawhide container
c. Woven and pitched basket
d. Crockery