DWFI releases irrigated farmland trends study

The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI) announced that its researchers recently published results from “Irrigated agriculture in the United States: Current status and future frontiers” in Agricultural Water Management. 

Researchers analyzed multiple datasets with advanced geospatial analysis to map the current state of irrigated agriculture and identify emerging trends. 

While the U.S. remains central to worldwide food production, the irrigation systems, infrastructure and water resources responsible for increased yields are under increasing stress, and changes are needed for the U.S. to maintain its role in global food security. 

Key takeaways: 

• Nearly half of irrigated farmland is concentrated in five states: California, Nebraska, Arkansas, Texas and Idaho. 

• Irrigation demand is shaping crop choices, with corn and soybean acreage expanding while acreage for water-intensive crops such as alfalfa, cotton, and rice is declining. 

• Irrigated acreage is expanding in the Eastern states, bringing new land-use, infrastructure and policy considerations. 

• Adoption of water-saving technology is increasing, but progress varies widely by operation size and resources. 

• Aquifer levels are declining faster than they can be replenished in many regions. 

• Regulations, socioeconomic factors, fragmented water rights frameworks and differing oversight create challenges in managing water resources.