Infrastructure v. Public Works 5: Siphon springs

Perhaps the most critical argument that is implicit, and sometimes explicit, in these pages is that design can synthesize diverse, and often contentious interests.

Several speculative projects are integrated into this site that illustrate how, at the scales of Delta sub-regions, settlements and buildings, this might be done.

Joining these explorations on the DNP website is the beginning of a new speculative proposal called a siphon spring. Siphon springs would integrate water conveyance infrastructure with recreation. If and when the engineering of the Peripheral Canal’s siphon stations is developed, further work on a siphon springs component can and will occur.

The previous post, which considered a plausible track for a proposed Peripheral Canal, mentioned that there is still no science on the effectiveness of “freshening” Delta waterways in improving the health of its ecosystem. And while design is no substitute for science, it has other substantial consensus-building possibilities.