March 09, 2023 | ScienceNews |
Amid escalating water shortages aggravated by climate change, a resurgence of interest in dry farming is sweeping through agricultural communities in the Western United States. Dry farming, an age-old practice that eschews irrigation in favor of relying on stored soil moisture, is gaining traction as farmers seek sustainable alternatives to traditional methods. While not a new concept, dry farming fell out of favor in the 20th century with the advent of irrigation technology. However, its resurgence is driven by the urgent need to conserve water in regions where agriculture accounts for a significant portion of water usage.
Despite its challenges, such as smaller yields and labor-intensive practices, dry farming offers compelling benefits. By tapping into natural soil moisture, farmers can reduce reliance on irrigation, mitigating the strain on dwindling water resources. Moreover, dry-farmed produce is renowned for its superior flavor and longer shelf life, appealing to both growers and consumers alike.
As interest in dry farming grows, ongoing research aims to identify crop varieties best suited to this practice, ensuring its viability in the face of changing climatic conditions. While not a one-size-fits-all solution, dry farming represents a promising pathway toward sustainable agriculture, offering hope for a future where farmers can thrive while safeguarding precious water supplies.