rop_top t1_ixmlgzr wrote
To be fair the problem has much more to do with lack of incentive for implementation. They've been able to run drip irrigation for a looooong time. Its even better for yield. The reason many farmers don't do it is because irrigation systems must be maintained and water is sold to them for rock bottom prices. They can just flood irrigate (yes, literally flood entire fields) for a few bucks and have little to no maintenance costs.
rddtact t1_ixmv4o3 wrote
Also doesn't help that in most states water rights are use it or lose it, the system is geared towards waste.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/use-it-or-lose-it-laws-worsen-western-u-s-water-woes
bertrenolds5 t1_ixp0pyo wrote
I thought they were changing this
hollisterrox t1_ixn87bz wrote
I just road-tripped through the imperial valley in Southern California, it is a straight-up desert environment. Field after field was growing alfalfa, with flood irrigation or arrays of sprayers blasting water into the dry, hot air.
Wildly wasteful.
Uberschrift t1_ixnisxe wrote
Flood irrigation also returns much more water to the water basin. Increased efficiency does not always translate to water savings.
mtgfan1001 t1_ixo2dgj wrote
Another hurdle is the lack of networking in rural areas.
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