The NPR Politics Podcast Water Shortages Force Farmers To Reckon With Changing Climate
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May 31, 2023 Droughts and water shortages dramatically affect farmers' livelihoods, particularly in Arizona. The Colorado River's dwindling resources raise urgent concerns about agricultural sustainability. Many farmers feel politically isolated, caught between climate challenges and party loyalties. There's a push for bipartisan solutions as farming perspectives on climate change evolve. Farmers seek more support from lawmakers, highlighting a critical debate on food security and the role of agriculture in addressing environmental issues.
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Farmer’s Water Loss
- Cassie England, an Arizona farmer, lost 50% of her Colorado River water allocation.
- She now relies on groundwater and expects 30% revenue loss due to limited planting capacity.
Political Divide
- Rural America, typically conservative, is significantly impacted by climate change.
- This creates a political dilemma for farmers who need solutions.
Farmers and Tariffs
- Farmers recall the negative impact of Trump's China tariffs on their businesses.
- They are now weighing the benefits of current Democrat policies against their generally Republican political leanings.