Last week we brought you the news that major cuts to water allocations from the Colorado River basin are on the way, specifically 21 percent for Arizona. So how will producers combat the loss?
It is going to affect some of the largest livestock, dairy, alfalfa, wheat, and barely operations in the state. Right now, it is possible some producers could get water through Phoenix or Tucson. Some will need to rely more on groundwater; others could be paid to leave their land fallow.
This could force farmers to switch to more water-efficient crops in the future.
The reservoirs are drying up faster than scientists predicted, leaving less time for producers and officials to plan.
Related:
Make It Even: Arizona lawmakers call for more state to share in water cuts
Possible legal battler over South Platte River Compact between NE and CO
How is California addressing the water crisis?
No Water, No Hay: What farmers are battling out West from the drought
