McCarthy outlines the outlook for 2000. California's population, he says, will increase by 38 percent, and it will define a statewide interest in the preservation of wildlife habitat. The environmental and economic implications of California's then-current efforts to meet its water needs by 2000 are emphasized. McCarthy discusses water rights and explores what food production will be like in California, the U.S., and in developing countries. Energy will be a focal point of concern, he says, and goes on to say that money that would have been spent for general education will be directed for increased productivity.