Those of us conditioned by the ubiquitous precepts of water conservation may feel slightly squeamish about water fountains. We have been taught that not all water uses are equal, some are of more value than others. Drinking obviously is an essential water use but washing sidewalks and driveways is not. Within a hierarchy of water uses, from essential to frivolous, how should water used within a decorative fountain be classified? The question has interesting implications. At first glance a water resource issue has been raised. Decorative fountains are water users. In arid Arizona, the water conservation precepts by which we live stress a strict accounting of water use. Fountains therefore are a valid topic for discussion to determine if their use is suitable and proper in a desert environment. Fountains often have attracted criticism as examples of wasting water.