Category: Water
Grower input wanted for water resources study
Researchers and Extension specialists working across California, New Mexico and Utah seek to understand how growers manage water resources, and to provide potential support for drought management.
Local solutions central to California water forum
Renegotiating water rights is a big concern for ag, and state farm bureaus are facing roadblocks to their many proposed solutions to the state’s water crisis.
‘MRI for the Earth’ probes groundwater from the air
A new technology sends electromagnetic signals 1,000 feet into the earth to collect data and create images that help determine an aquifer’s water level.
Butte County, California, farmers propose new water district
The proposed Tuscan Water District will cover over 100,000 acres, largely tree crops, in an area currently not served by a water district.
Water cuts leave hard choices for farmers
Decisions have to be made on what to fallow, as California sees the lowest January, February and March precipitation levels in over 160 years.
Klamath farmers facing water cuts
Allocations will be less than 15% of what irrigators need. This is a third consecutive drought year, and food production is expected to be heavily impacted.
CA judge halts curtailment for Siskiyou County irrigators
A temporary restraining order is in effect until May 5, pending the outcome of a hearing regarding the state’s overreach by trying to prevent farmers from using groundwater supplies.
State deepens water supply cuts as drought continues
The earlier promised allotment of 15% has dropped to 5%, as California reserves and snowpack are below average, entering another drought year.
Project aimed at improving fertilization and irrigation practices
With funding provided by USDA-NRCS, the project will deploy Extension personnel to perform demonstrations, provide on-farm consultations, and conduct outreach activities to promote locally appropriate best practices.
Saltier groundwater does long lasting damage, but less than feared
Drought means deeper wells, and deeper wells mean less quality groundwater. But a 60% predicted loss in almonds – and a reality closer to 30% – is showing that while almond trees are still salt sensitive, perhaps it’s less than expected.
Storms bring modest increase in California water project deliveries
A modest increase of 15% in 2022 water deliveries are the result of December storms, with the Department of Water Resources continuing to address health and safety needs.
What do revisions to US water rules mean for ag interests?
Officials have determined that the Navigable Waters Protection Rule reduces clean water protections, which has farmers advocating for a rule that is clear, concise and accounts for normal agricultural activities.
Welcome water news seen for California farmers and ranchers
Though California reservoirs are still below average storage for the time of year, the numerous storms at the start of the season has the state seeing up to 160% of average snowpack.
Almond Board offers Introduction to Groundwater Recharge guide
Almond Board of California is encouraging growers to use the Introduction to Groundwater Recharge guide, which is designed for those wanting to learn more about how to use their land to recharge aquifers.
Study findings: Cover crop water use is negligible in most water years
This research is important for informing and shaping policy concerning California’s upcoming Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.