The Colorado River Basin extends into seven states, provides water to almost 40 million people, and supports a $5 billion agricultural industry — yet, the basin recently suffered its 20th year of drought conditions. This historic period has not only affected the lives of the 1 in 10 Americans that rely on the river, but also holds serious implications for the current and future state of agriculture.
Agriculture uses approximately 80% of Colorado’s water withdrawals to irrigate 15% of the nation’s farmland, the equivalent of 6 million acres of farmland. Wheat, corn, berries, fresh produce, and alfalfa (a primary form of cattle feed) are likely to be particularly strained by supply rationing to manage water-stress. The growth in food production to meet the burgeoning population, coupled with human consumption and extreme weather events are?is placing an increasing demand on the basin’s limited supply — and more pressure on local farmers, consumers, and companies to adapt to the region’s water scarcity.
Companies and investors have a unique opportunity to respond to water risks in their operations and supply chains near the Colorado River Basin, advocate for sustainable and resilient water policies, and ensure sustainable management.
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