Farmers Lead Efforts in Water Conservation
Water is one of the most valuable resources for farmers and ranchers. According to the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), farmers play a vital role in maintaining clean, healthy water systems that benefit both agriculture and local communities.
Conservation tillage and cover cropping are key soil management practices. By reducing tillage and maintaining year-round plant cover, farmers prevent erosion, retain moisture, and keep nutrients from washing away. Over 200 million acres use conservation tillage, while 86 million acres are under cover cropping programs supported by NRCS.
Conservation drainage systems also play a major role. Farmers use wetlands, water recycling systems, and bioreactors to treat runoff and remove excess nutrients before they reach waterways. Buffer strips and saturated buffers planted along fields further trap sediments and prevent contamination.
Nutrient management follows the “4R” principles — using the right nutrient source, rate, time, and place. Modern precision agriculture tools help apply fertilizers efficiently, minimizing waste and runoff. Nearly 55 million acres receive NRCS assistance for nutrient management, helping reduce fertilizer use and improve water quality.
Livestock producers also support water conservation through prescribed grazing, waste management, and fencing that prevents animals from entering streams. These practices protect pastures, limit erosion, and safeguard community water systems.
Through these combined efforts, farmers and ranchers continue to lead in protecting water resources, ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.
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