Switching crops and irrigation could slash water use by over 50% in Canada's agricultural heartland
The study looked at how different crops and irrigation methods affect water use in the Fraser Valley, Canada. They used a model to compare water needs for seven crops with different irrigation systems. Drip irrigation was found to be more efficient than sprinkler irrigation for all crops. Raspberries were the most water-efficient crop, while forage and pasture needed the most water. By changing crops or irrigation systems, water use could be reduced by up to 57%. This information can help farmers in the Fraser Valley make better decisions about what to grow and how to manage water.