WATA consolidates over 200 case studies on various research and practices, offering knowledge from the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) and other credible sources. This tool emphasizes strategies for bridging the gap between water demand and available supply, focusing on cropping and irrigation practices across Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah.
The Southwest region has seen significant urban and agricultural expansion over the years. For the past century, water use has been sustained through extensive infrastructure, including dams, canals, and groundwater extraction. However, the region’s arid and semi-arid conditions, extremely hot temperatures, and prolonged droughts have exacerbated water scarcity. With reservoir and aquifer levels declining, the need for effective water management strategies has become more urgent than ever.
Physical Water Scarcity: Occurs when a region’s demand for water exceeds its available resources. Approximately 1.2 billion people live in areas with physical scarcity, often in arid or semi-arid regions. Seasonal water scarcity affects about two-thirds of the world’s population at least once a year. As populations grow and weather patterns become more unpredictable due to global warming, this issue is expected to worsen.
Economic Water Scarcity: There is sufficient water to meet needs in areas with economic water scarcity, but access is limited due to poor management or inadequate infrastructure. Over 1.6 billion people face economic water shortages. Integrated water resources management can help control water stress and protect the environment and human well-being.
WATA documents a diverse range of solutions, from centuries-old techniques used by indigenous peoples to cutting-edge technologies. Traditional methods for growing crops in arid lands are showcased alongside modern innovations such as aquaponics, which integrates fish and plant production, and agrivoltaics, which combines solar energy with crop cultivation. Additionally, the tool highlights advanced irrigation practices that match water application to plant needs using soil moisture sensors, remote sensing, and weather data.
Disseminating adaptation options is crucial as communities seek proactive measures to combat climate change impacts. WATA is a vital resource for managers, researchers, and educators, offering case studies and research outcomes to help mitigate the effects of temporary and long-term water scarcity.
