I believe that solar-heated evaporator rafts can increase the humidity in northern California and reduce the desiccation of soil and vegetation that increases the risk of wildfires. While rafts could be placed in the fresh water lakes in fire-prone areas, this should be viewed as an emergency measure because it depletes a valuable resource. A better long-term solution is to evaporate water from the Pacific Ocean at a coastal location near Mendocino. A casual web search indicates that the sea level changes about 6 ft from high to low tide. The estuary of Big River might provide a location to accommodate this tidal amplitude while sheltering evaporator rafts from the pounding surf, but the web pages come alive with human activity. There are ads offering to rent kayaks, wet suits, flotation jackets, paddles, and other necessary equipment to enjoy the white waters of the river descending from the coastal mountain range, and to explore the estuary and the coastal bays. One hour of instruction followed by two hours of free time is offered. There are many other deals offered, including outrigger kayaks, tours, and many opportunities to enjoy the natural wonders of the area. With all this joy, enterprise, commercialism, nature preservation and exploitation, the idea of an evaporator raft just floating in a sheltered location performing an invisible task just seems out of place.
So, in addition to showing scientific, technical, and economic feasibility, it will be necessary to accommodate established enterprises and activities, as well as educate the public and gain acceptance. Without sufficient buy-in, the evaporator raft effort will be doomed by sabotage, vandalism, and indifference, in addition to competition. May we live in interesting times.
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