Since a healthy human cannot survive longer than three days without water (within normal circumstances), it becomes the priority to find when in a wilderness environment for an extended amount of time.

 

Stagnant water sources ought to be avoided altogether since they have a tendency to contain high amounts of toxic substances, low amounts of oxygen and a greater possibility of decomposing animals.

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If a clean water source is available, such as a river, stream or brook, it ought to be determined if any contaminants or pollutants are sourced upstream. This can be determined from a recently-acquired industrial & topographical paper map or GPS; given the device still has power or is powered by a solar source and a signal is available.

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When it has been determined that the water source is not contaminated with radiation, chemicals or biohazards, it must still be filtered AND purified to eliminate possible infections from bacteria, viruses and parasites. Be sure your portable water filter and purifier are of the highest quality and keep ample filters handy. Boiling water with use of a campfire is a viable option, if necessary.

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METHODS OF SOURCING

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If clean water sources are not available, water will have to be collected from alternative sources. Water can be harvested from morning dew, fog, plants and direct rainfall.

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Morning dew can be harvested by placing a highly-absorbent material such as cheesecloth, or even a bandana or tee shirt, on top of grass or on a bush, overnight. It can be wrung out into a container, then purified or boiled with use of a campfire.

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Fog can be harvested for water by use of a fine mesh net, erected perpendicular to the wind, that can capture droplets as fog flows through the device. The water can drip into a container, then purified or boiled with use of a campfire.

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The condensation a plant produces as temperatures change will cause water to be released from it. Simply tie a small plastic baggie over the end of a single stem and weight it down with a small clean stone so water will collect in the bottom of the baggie.

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Various trees including maple, hickory, birch and sycamore can be tapped for drinking water; and particularly, its sap; which contains life-saving electrolytes. Simply hammer in a spile (a small, hollow wooden or metal peg) into the trunk of the tree.

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Rainfall collection is achieved by hoisting a clean, plastic sheet or tarp and angling it in the desired direction of water flow into clean containers.

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CONTINGENCIES

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The following are a few of considerations that ought to be made when harvesting and collecting water:

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1. Many methods should be employed at the same time to assure some measurable success and an adequate amount of water available.

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2. Conserving one's energy may have to be considered if in an arid, hot or dry environment. Balance is key.

 

3. As a last alternative, sourcing water may have to be derived from the consumption of nearby edible plants and hunted animals.