2008: A major dry spell hit Israel causing the worst drought for 10 years. The president of the National Water Authority in Israel said the government had failed follow through on water saving initiatives over the past 6 years. The projected output for national desalinization plants was 350 cubic meters of potable water but only 130 million cubic meters were produced. Fast Facts:

1. March 19, 2008: Israel stopped pumping from the Sea of Galilee
2. Less than average rain - 50-60 percent of the average
3. Greater desire to water lawns and gardens has exacerbated the situation