An Idea Born of the California Drought. 

Updated 3/23/2018

I created this groundwater model to give my students a simulated first-hand experience of Tragedy of the Commons.  In this case it is Central California's Groundwater depletion due to drought and over-drafting of the aquifer.  Please be aware that I have a VERY much improved version of this soon to be released on Science Friday's website.   This version clogs a bit.

Groundwater pumping sim lab is setting up a stupendous Tragedy of the Commons discussion for tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/Tw7UPOtLqT

— Ryan Hollister (@phaneritic) January 19, 2017

Step #1: Use a large hot glue gun to melt holes large enough to press-fit shampoo pumps.

(You can also put the rubber tubing on at this time or wait until later.  Doesn't really matter).

Step #2:  Label "land partitions" and drill infiltration holes.

1. Use a Sharpie to equally divide the top of the box into thirds.

2. Set the lid on top of the empty shoe box.  
3. Use a .25" drill bit to drill NINE holes in front of each pump.
4. The holes will catch rain and act as points of infiltration during the simulation.