By Scout Nelson
Low groundwater levels are becoming a critical issue for US farmers, particularly during droughts, according to a recent Nebraska-led study. The research, based on three decades of data, reveals the significant impact of aquifer depletion on food production, even when aquifers appear saturated.
The study found that as aquifers shrink due to groundwater extraction challenges, crop yields decrease. This decrease becomes more pronounced as the aquifer's thickness decreases. Farmers relying on aquifers with less groundwater, such as those 30 to 100 feet thick, experience declining crop yields when water deficits reach just 400 millimeters.
Moreover, reduced irrigation in response to declining aquifers compounds crop losses, highlighting the vulnerability of agricultural systems to water shortages. Aquifers below 100 feet thick are particularly at risk, and their depletion poses a severe threat to food security.
The study underscores the importance of proactive water management policies. While Nebraska benefits from a vast aquifer, most regulations focus on pumping volume rather than preserving aquifer saturation levels. The research suggests that policymakers should act before aquifers reach critical levels to mitigate the negative impacts on agriculture.
As climate change intensifies, the reliance on aquifers for irrigation will likely increase. Hotter conditions necessitate more water, leading to faster aquifer depletion. Therefore, the study emphasizes the need for sustainable water management practices to ensure a stable food supply and agricultural resilience.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Nebraska, Crops