Arizona has made its first move towards regulating the use of groundwater.
The state says that over the last two decades, 26 wells in the southeastern portion of the state dropped by ten feet. Blame for the rapid decline has been placed on agriculture.
If approved, the proposed Willcox Groundwater Basin Management area would be the first formed through executive action since 1980.
Such moves have been historically opposed by Arizona farm groups who say groundwater pumping regulations are not flexible enough.
Related Stories
Dr. Derrell Peel says the longer the border remains closed to Mexican cattle imports, the more likely some industry changes could become permanent.
Producers say limited moisture is creating major challenges for crops and irrigation heading into summer.
Mike Stranz joins us to discuss farm safety net reforms, NFU’s proposed IMSET program, and the challenges facing family farmers nationwide.
USDA will elevate its “Plant Not Plastic” initiative and promote American cotton over synthetic fibers.
The investigation does not prove wrongdoing, but it raises federal scrutiny of a major cost center for crop producers.
The state-level focus is split between labeling and sales restrictions.