Passage 1 The Sense of Saving Water Water is an essential resource. Although water makes up a significant part of the planet, most of it is salt water, so we cannot drink or clean with it. The fresh water we use is not limitless. People currently use more fresh water than can naturally be replaced. Many states are already experiencing water shortages. Scientists expect this problem to become worse in the future. A growing shortage of water will affect our way of life in many ways. Therefore, the conservation of water should happen now. There are some ways that we can help conserve water in our daily lives. We can be more aware how we use water and how we use it unwisely. Many times, the appliances that we use waste water. Using more efficient machines can help save water. Taking shorter showers and brushing one's teeth with the faucet off also helps stop waste. By making these small changes, we can make a difference. We can also save money when we use less water. Water conservation is something that people of all ages can do. By conserving water, we are helping to provide for our future. Everyone should do his or her part to make sure there is enough water for future generations. Passage 2 Conservation is Costly Conserving water has become a popular issue because many U. S. states are suffering a drought. Some lawmakers think that states should enforce a fine to those who use too much water. As the drought becomes worse, many believe that enforcing this penalty would best help conserve water. Although water conservation is an important issue for everyone, fines for using water could mean the downfall of many businesses. The majority of businesses require a lot of water to operate. Without it, businesses may not operate properly. This would result in a loss of business. In particular, the restaurant industry might suffer. Restaurants rely on people to come in and buy their food. They also want to provide clean environments and drinking water for the diners. Should they be expected to pay fines in order to conduct business? Some lawmakers say that conservation would not affect businesses if they used water-saving appliances. These machines can help conserve water. However, some of these water-efficient appliances are costly. Many businesses cannot afford the expense of replacing their equipment. As a result, they face a difficult situation that might lead them to shut down. Enforcing water conservation with fines might cause more damage than good. Businesses might choose not to save water because paying fines would be cheaper than buying better appliances. These are points that lawmakers should consider before passing such a bill. 5 What piece of information from Passage 1 conflicts with information from Passage 2? A. Water conservation can save people money. B. There are appliances that can help save water. C. States are affected by water conservation efforts. D. Saving water is an important issue for everyone.