Wednesday, November 6, 2024
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California farmers plan to reduce their use of Colorado River water, resulting in temporary dry fields.

“Imperial Valley Farmers Offered Cash to Conserve Water – A Game-Changer for the Colorado River”

In a groundbreaking move to address the ongoing crisis facing the Colorado River, farmers in the Imperial Valley will now have the opportunity to receive cash payments in exchange for temporarily shutting off water to their fields. This initiative, approved by the board of the Imperial Irrigation District, aims to alleviate the strains on the Colorado River by compensating farmers for harvesting less hay.

The program, known as the deficit irrigation program, will allow farmers to apply for federal funds to offset the financial impact of leaving their fields fallow for up to two months. This innovative approach is designed to boost the levels of the river’s reservoirs, which have been severely depleted due to chronic overuse, prolonged drought, and rising temperatures attributed to climate change.

The Imperial Irrigation District, which delivers the largest share of the Colorado River’s water to agricultural lands in the region, developed this program in consultation with growers. The goal is to prevent long-term fallowing of crops, which would have a significant negative impact on food production and the local economy.

Under the approved plan, farmers will receive $300 per acre-foot of water they forgo during a 45-day or 60-day period starting in August. Those growing alfalfa, Bermuda grass, or klein grass are eligible to participate, as these crops account for the majority of cultivated farmland in the valley.

The district estimates that this conservation program could save approximately 200,000 acre-feet of water this year, contributing to a total conservation goal of 700,000 acre-feet through 2026. The focus on alfalfa is strategic, as the crop can withstand short periods without water and recover once irrigation resumes.

Funding for the program will come from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, with additional support provided through the district’s existing on-farm conservation program. By incentivizing farmers to adopt water-saving practices, the district aims to address the Colorado River’s water shortage while maintaining agricultural production.

The Imperial Valley’s farmers, who hold water rights dating back to the early 1900s, recognize the need for significant cutbacks to sustainably manage the region’s water resources. By participating in this program, they hope to contribute to the long-term health and viability of the Colorado River while safeguarding their livelihoods.

As the district awaits final approvals to implement the program, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential benefits for both the environment and the local economy. By striking a balance between conservation and agricultural production, the Imperial Irrigation District is setting a precedent for sustainable water management practices in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

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