New environmental archaeology research has analyzed the canal systems of the Hohokam people in the American Southwest. The study suggests that their advanced hydraulic engineering allowed them to survive an 80-year megadrought in the 13th century by utilizing seasonal floodwaters and groundwater seepage.
Soil samples taken from ancient fields show that the Hohokam rotated crops and used mineral-rich silt to maintain soil fertility during periods of low rainfall. This research provides valuable lessons on sustainable water management in arid environments from an ancient civilization's perspective.
