How Fountains continue to change Environments
How Fountains continue to change EnvironmentsMost Historians would agree that the first evidence of a man-made fountain was from around 3,000 B.C.E. in Mesopotamia. This fountain would have been more than likely powered by gravity, the water source being higher in elevation than the basin where the water would be discharged. Often, these types of early fountains were associated with sacred gardens and religious areas. As technology improved, specifically the ability to move water from one area to another via aqueducts and piping, fountains would become more elaborate and more abundant. Fountains installed in city centers would be placed to serve as symbols of patronage as well as bring fresh drinking water to the populous cities of the period, like Rome.
Water fountains have historically been used for improving aesthetics, but they also serve another important function, by improving water quality. In the recreational camping community, there is a myth that fast-moving water is always safe to drink. While this is not true, it is based on the fact that stagnant water provides a better breeding ground for many types of parasites and harmful bacteria than running water does.
The benefits of fountains are not limited to human development but can also be beneficial to the aquatic environment as well. An increase in the dissolved oxygen in a lake or pond can be beneficial to fish and other aquatic organisms as well as reduce the levels of foul-smelling bacteria. Utilizing an electric motor with solar capability, modern fountains can be placed in almost any body of water. These fountains, like those from ancient times, improve the aesthetics of a community and can be beneficial to the overall quality of the water.
