How is Drought Affecting Irrigation Water for Pecans?

Nov 22, 2021

The pecan industry is substantial, according to USDA statistics. On average, pecan orchards produced around 250 million pounds of nuts per year in the past decade. But due to drought, water for irrigation is becoming more salty, which can impact pecan production. The November 22^nd, 2021, Sustainable, Secure Food Blog explains how researchers in New Mexico are looking at how using brackish water affects pecan production.

When water comes in contact with rocks or other sources of salt, some salts dissolve in the water – a natural process. But as the water evaporates, that increases the salinity of the water, because salt does not evaporate along with the water. This salty water is called brackish, which has less salt than ocean water.

Click here to see more...

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.