In a recent study led by the University of Nebraska, alarming findings highlight the imminent threat to food production posed by the depletion of groundwater, particularly in the High Plains Aquifer—the largest in the United States. The study reveals a direct correlation between aquifer depletion and diminishing crop yields, emphasizing the urgent need for policymakers, resource managers, and growers to reevaluate their approach to water usage.

The research indicates that groundwater depletion, even in seemingly saturated aquifers, can significantly impact crop yields, especially for essential crops like corn and soybeans. The effects are particularly pronounced as the aquifer thickness decreases, showcasing the vulnerability of agricultural systems in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Nick Brozovic, the director of policy at the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, underscores the importance of acknowledging the diminishing resilience of irrigated agriculture under extreme conditions, such as drought and climate change. The study’s focus on the High Plains Aquifer, which spans eight states, including Nebraska, underscores the urgency of the issue for a significant portion of the U.S.

The study’s lead author, Taro Mieno, emphasizes the gap between existing models and the concerns of farmers regarding well yield—highlighting the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of aquifer dynamics. As climate change progresses, the demand for water is expected to rise, intensifying the depletion of aquifers and exacerbating the challenges faced by farmers.

One key takeaway from the study is the economic and resilience consequences of aquifer depletion. Even in areas with abundant water, as aquifers thin, the ability to meet crop water needs during dry periods declines. This not only has economic ramifications but also poses a threat to our ability to sustain food production in the long run.

The study’s findings should serve as a wake-up call for regions relying heavily on irrigation, urging them to reconsider the volume of groundwater available and implement sustainable water management practices. The impact on corn and soybean yields demonstrates the intricate link between groundwater levels and agricultural productivity, making it imperative to address this issue before it reaches a critical point.

While Nebraska has implemented local-scale governance systems to conserve its aquifers, the study emphasizes the need for a broader perspective, urging policymakers to revise regulations that focus solely on pumping rates. The time to act is now, before aquifers reach a point of no return, and meaningful policies must be in place to mitigate the impending challenges.

Wise water use is not just a choice; it’s an imperative for securing our future food production. The study from the University of Nebraska serves as a clarion call for immediate action, encouraging a collaborative effort among policymakers, resource managers, and growers to safeguard our most precious resource and ensure a resilient and sustainable agricultural future.

This editorial first appeared in the McCook Gazette on January 19, 2024. It was distributed by The Associated Press.