Water, People, and the Future: Water Availability for Agriculture in the United States.

With a projected 25% and 50% increase in U.S. and world populations, respectively, by 2050, substantial increases in freshwater use for food, fiber, and fuel production, as well as municipal and residential consumption, are inevitable. This increased water use will not come without consequences, and as one of the largest users of water in the United States, agriculture will be impacted significantly by changes in water availability and cost. An abundant, reliable supply of water to meet demands cannot be taken for granted. The presentation, based on an issue paper of the same title released by CAST (Council for Agricultural Science and Technology), evaluates current trends, summarize key vulnerabilities, and identify possible solutions to current and future challenges. Through case studies, the presentation discusses the diverse demands for water resources using the impacts, regulations, challenges, and policies of four specific areas of the United States—California, Arizona, Florida, and the High Plains—with particular focus on the implications for agriculture. Among the challenges requiring attention from policy makers include water quality, environmental water needs, and growing municipal demands for water.