The most important need to be fulfilled when making plans to live in the desert is water. Where does one go for water where seemingly, there is none? Finding water can be difficult when setting up a home in a place that is not serviced by a water company. Drinking water is the top priority. However, the bath, clean dishes, clean clothes, and the toilet may be thought of as luxuries when, in fact, they are near to necessities.

If one looks around and sees a tree or a shrub, further investigation is needed, for there must be a source of water for the plant. A well drilling company could come to your land with equipment to see if a well could be put down to give water. The company could give one the information regarding the water table in the area as well. One thinks of a windmill as a help to get water. However, in the desert, there may not be enough wind to make it functional. There may be a creek or pond that could be tapped as a source for water instead.

The Mojave Desert area has solved its water problem for now by having a water tank on each of the small isolated mountains found in the desert. Along the way are fire hydrants which are located at strategic points. Ranch owners pay the water district for connection permits to their homes. It is then essential to be conservative in the use of water by timing showers and fixing leaky faucets right away.