Archaeologist Bill Sanders (04:13)

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In 1961, Sanders shot “Land and Water, An Ecological Study of the Teotihuacan Valley of Mexico,” showcasing agricultural practices and local lifestyles. He is credited with giving archaeology social relevance and cataloging an extinct culture.

Teotihuacan Valley: Vanished Resources (11:09)

Teotihuacan farmers in the 1960s relied on practices from the 16th century. Access to clean springs and rivers allowed natural cultivation with domesticated animals. Maguey harvests dwindle, water runs low and dirty, and chemicals and machinery are used; fish and most crops were gone by 2019.

Teotihuacan Valley: Viewing (06:14)

“Land and Water” became standard in university anthropology classes. In 2018, it was translated and informed a generation about the loss of natural resources. Many were upset to see how the land has drastically changed and Pulque production has declined.

Aniceto Martinez and Andres Reyes (05:50)

While viewing “Land and Water,” many valley residents were introduced to lost family traditions, agriculture, and landscape. Descendants of Martinez and Reyes share their feelings and thoughts. Few remember events of 1961; those that do recall being poor but happy.

Teotihuacan Valley: Water and Population (10:55)

Irrigation sources and agriculture are nearly gone; remaining crops receive synthetic fertilizers and recycled drainage water. The population is over one million, requiring the conversion of farmlands to urban spaces. Trash and pollution contribute to local experiences of climate change.

Teotihuacan Valley: Mitigating Climate Change (09:43)

Some valley residents feel responsible to preserve culture and resources; cooperation is necessary to find solutions for water chain problems. They remain hopeful, raising awareness and learning from mistakes; they describe laughter and happiness as part of Mexican culture.

Climate Change: Raising Awareness (03:05)

Many societies have occupied Teotihuacan Valley over millenniums, making it an ideal place to draw global attention to problems it has endured. In 2019, residents perform new and old traditions during a celebration.

Credits: Land and Water Revisited (01:36)

Credits: Land and Water Revisited