Water is essential to sustaining life, and it is especially important to farmers and ranchers who work to feed the world. Crucial water issues are threatening crops and livestock worldwide. With the world population estimated to grow to 9.8 billion people by 2050, the agriculture industry needs to increase food and fiber production. Issues including drought, regulations on water usage, and laws preventing the collection of rainwater are directly impacting production. Agriculture experts are working with companies to develop and implement new technologies to address crucial water issues. Techniques aiding in water use efficiency and conservation are vital to sustaining our future.
Irrigation
Drip irrigation is a type of microirrigation that is considered more efficient than other types of irrigation. With a sophisticated design, drip irrigation can be above or below ground with water running through pipes with small holes. This technology conserves water with its ability to control how much water is sent through the system and by watering the plants directly. Installing sensors into irrigation systems is another method farmers are using to conserve water. The sensors precisely measure the amount of water crops need and only release water when the system senses the crops need it. This type of irrigation has been changing the way farming has been done for a long time.
More than ever farmers are relying on agriculture experts to help develop and implement new techniques and technologies as they learn to farm in drier climates. With the need to use water efficiently in the face of drought, the irrigation machinery market is expected to grow. Investing in and maintaining irrigation systems that use water efficiently is more important than ever. The National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS)reports 646 counties with drought declarations affecting 215.2 million acres of crops and 19.7 million beef cattle. While these are the statistics for the U.S., these crucial water issues affect farmers worldwide. Implementing microirrigation with the help of financial assistance and subsidies is one step in the right direction to conserving water in places with severe water shortages.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting, storing, and then distributing the water to farmers for agricultural needs. Water is essential for arable farmers as well as livestock farmers, so this system is beneficial to both. The United States Department of Agriculture states that rainwater harvesting not only saves money, but it can protect crops and soil. By using collected rainwater, water bills are reduced. Strategic installations can also protect fields by installing high tunnels for rainwater collection preventing topsoil from being damaged. This method decreases the need for farmers and ranchers to draw water from national reservoirs, thus conserving water.
Unpredictable weather events such as flash flooding can occur and be devastating to crops and livestock. Rainwater harvesting systems help control such events by collecting rainfall and preventing damage. On a federal level, rainwater harvesting is not illegal, but it is controlled by each state. While dealing with drought and water shortage, farmers must navigate certain laws if they choose to harvest rainwater.
Final Thoughts
As farmers continue to face water issues around the world, microirrigation and rainwater harvesting are two approaches that can help farmers increase production records and conserve water. Decreased water availability is encouraging agriculture experts to fight water-related issues with innovative technology and techniques to conserve water. Without proper water management and use, our world will experience devastating impacts. As the population continues to grow, the agriculture industry will continue to adapt to supply food, reduce water use and manage water resources effectively.
