High Plains farmers seeking to grow vegetables with little water resources might consider looking west.
California is the nation’s largest grower of water-loving vegetables like lettuce and spinach. But if you had to guess what state was second, you might not choose Arizona. Nevertheless, this seems to be the case,according to National Geographic. The desert state’s ability to grow thirsty plants on a large scale is due in large part to smart water planning over the years. Like California, Arizona is also enduring a prolonged drought. But unlike the Golden State, Arizona isn’t facing a water shortage. Minimal rain for decades has to Arizonans to grow food on a tight water budget. “We track water like we do financial statements, down to the acre inch that’s applied, where it’s applied, how it’s applied and when it’s applied,” said Robert Knorr, a fourth-generation farmer.
As water resources continue to dwindle, Arizona will need to tighten its belt even further. Still, there is much to be learned from this hot, dry state.
Read NatGeo's full story here.