On November 29, the WRRC partnered with the Agricultural Office of the Embassy of Chile to host a webinar titled Water and Agriculture: Chile-Arizona Experience. The panel discussion featured water experts, researchers, and key stakeholders from Chile and Arizona. Facilitated by Chile’s Agricultural Attaché in the US, Andrés Rodrigues, the webinar began with a presentation from Manuel Silva from Chile’s Ministry of Agriculture Water Policies Department, who provided context on the water situation in Chile. Next, WRRC Director Sharon B. Megdal offered insight into water challenges and successes in Arizona. Tom Davis with the Yuma County Water Users Association provided comments on how the megadrought has impacted the state’s agriculture. Subsequently, Channah Rock, professor and Extension specialist with the University of Arizona, talked about the role of water quality in agriculture sectors. The seminar ended with shorter segments on research initiatives at the University of Arizona, which included topics such as desert adaptation to climate change, innovative agriculture strategies, and desert soil composition. A recording of the event will be posted soon.
Image: Embassy of Chile in the US