April 08, 2022
Weekly Wave
,
10 vol.
,
no. 13
,
Water Resources Research Center
,
Tucson, AZ
Under the Tier 1 shortage declared for the Colorado River this year, about 30% of the Central Arizona Project’s (CAP) supply is curtailed, with cuts primarily affecting agricultural users. Off the river and outside of the CAP service area, groundwater sources are strained, resulting in declining water tables and wells drying up. These issues have received broad news coverage, including articles that examine the impacts of water shortages on agriculture, measures to mitigate water shortages (e.g., changing to less water-intensive crops, fallowing), and impacts of continued water shortages on Arizona communities and the agricultural sector. The WRRC 2022 Annual Conference, Arizona’s Agricultural Outlook: Water, Climate, and Sustainability, will provide a forum for a diverse discussion of the issues through a broad and inclusive lens. By asking the question “What is the outlook for agriculture in Arizona?” the conference will cover the diversity of agriculture throughout the state, including regional and global demand, small-scale farms, Tribal perspectives, ranching, and emerging crops. Bookmark our conference page for updates on the program – coming soon!
Image: Sulphur Springs Valley, AZ, David Quanrud, WRRC Photo Contest