Mohammed A. Hasan. Courtesy photo.
VENTURA — California’s recurring drought problem can be solved permanently by new sustainable water solutions, according to prominent civil engineer Mohammed A. Hasan.
Speaking at the University Club of Ventura, Hasan, who has 41 years of experience dealing with water issues, explained what needs to be done to prevent water shortages due to drought. Hasan says, “While the whole world has changed in the last fifty years, and while severe drought is taking hold of California in historical fashion, our water supply has not changed. Human life, in constant need of water, is being put at risk. Only by changing our thinking and our approaches to new technologies can we benefit the thirsty people of California”.
He authored a new book, “Drought Is Not a Four-Letter Word” that describes the state’s water issues, the agencies that make water decisions – ranging from small special districts to the state and federal governments – and the need for an entirely different approach to the problem. The Club meets monthly at Poinsettia pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. Ventura.
Hasan urges politicians, water managers and general public to work together and start investing for our future water supply. As for general public, he suggests, “Individual citizens do not have to feel powerless. They are asked to sacrifice so much, but once they understand and comprehend the needs, they also can participate in the solutions”.
Hasan is the principal engineer and owner of Hasan Consultants, a civil and environmental engineering firm in Ventura. He was the utilities superintendent of the city of Oxnard. He holds dual M.S. degrees from the University of Iowa. He’s a fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers. He’s also a leadership fellow of the American Public Works Association and a distinguished life member of the American Water Works Association.