Tapped
"Not here for some agrarian fantasy"
Jul 25, 2022
Exploring the challenges of sustainable farming in Southern Arizona, including water scarcity and adapting to climate change. The podcast discusses the viability of small farming in the region, the use of modern farming techniques and crop diversity, and the need for water conservation in Arizona agriculture amid the Colorado River crisis.
23:18
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Quick takeaways
- Cotton, wheat, barley, alfalfa, and corn are grown in Southern Arizona due to guaranteed market and subsidies, hindering the transition to sustainable food practices.
- Water scarcity and large-scale farming activities in the desert landscape impact small farmers, leading to uncertainty about water resources and changes in the landscape.
Deep dives
Economics drive the cultivation of water-intensive crops
Farmers in the desert are growing water-intensive crops like cotton, wheat, barley, alfalfa, and corn because there is a guaranteed market and subsidies for these crops. The agricultural industry relies on these crops due to their ability to tolerate heat, salinity, and seasonalities well suited to Arizona. Farmers cannot take the risk of changing crops without certainty of demand and financial support. However, the growing water scarcity and environmental concerns make it challenging for farmers to transition to sustainable food practices.
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