Water shortages are now affecting half the world’s population, disrupting food and energy security as well as urban water supplies in many cities.  The overuse of water and associated drying of rivers, lakes, and aquifers has become a leading cause of freshwater species imperilment.  Climate change forecasts foretell even greater challenges in many water-scarce regions. These threats to our water future can be ameliorated, but it will require bold and concerted action on the part of governments, city leaders, and farmers. This presentation will highlight the key solutions that must be implemented.