The liquid that's more precious than oil, and how to make it pay

Fresh water is becoming ever more scarce the world over. We look at how there's money in managing, treating and conserving it - and tip one stock to watch.

About 7,050 feet above sea level, high in the snowy Sierra Nevada mountains, lies a little frozen meadow called Gin Flat. It got its name from a speak-easy that closed long ago. Nestled amid a forest of pine and cedar, a little scientific outpost measures snowfall - and has done so since the 1930s.

This is important work, because the melting snow from the Sierra Nevada provides water for millions of Californians. The size of the snowpack at Gin Flat gives us clues to how much water will flow from the mountains. With the data gathered at Gin Flat, scientists can divine the future of California's water supply.

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MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.