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Main > Regional Themes > Water Conservation & Agricultural Water Management ________________________________________________________________________________ Overview In some areas of the Southwest and Pacific Islands region, water use has begun to exceed water recharge, generating concern about depleting water resources. Population growth in some areas of the region has increased demand, while periods of drought regularly limit the supply. The necessity for water conservation by agriculture, industry, and individuals is becoming more real every day. The amount and time of precipitation on most agricultural lands in Region 9 is not adequate for producing high crop yields. Agricultural water management entails making decisions on irrigation and, if necessary, drainage practices on farms. In this context, water conservation means irrigating in a manner that results in low surface runoff from the field, and only the amount of water necessary to leach excessive salts moving below the crop root zone. Water management decisions include choices of irrigation systems (i.e. furrow, sprinkler, drip, etc.) and programming the time and amount of irrigation. Region 9 is engaged in research and provides science-based educational materials directed toward achieving optimal agricultural water management. The information is also useful for irrigation management in urban settings. In addition to research and outreach aimed at agricultural water management, the USDA-CSREES, Region 9 provides programs geared toward homeowners and the general public that are designed to raise awareness of water-conserving practices and foster water-conserving behaviors in all members of our region. These water-wise programs and practices can not only help save money on water bills, but also benefit the community by conserving this precious resource. Objectives
Developing a Potential Hazard Index for Nitrate in the Southwest States
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