What we can learn from California's extreme drought

Did you know?

It's estimated that 20% of California's water use is allocated to residences.

80% is allocated to agriculture.

Doesn't sound too crazy so far, right? I mean, California and Texas are both known for farming....

Did you know?

Agriculture contributes less than 2% of California's GDP. So the Ag industry uses 80% of the water statewide, while earning 2% of the states' income. Hmmmm, sounds way out of whack now!

Let's dig a little deeper.

Did you know?

A pound of beef can require 10,000 gallons of water to create.

A pound of broccoli requires about 90 gallons of water to create.

Not much broccoli growing going on in west Texas. But lots of cattle raising.

Did you know?

Giant Agribusiness farms in California actually pay less for their water than everyone else. The state subsidizes the cost for them.

Did you know?

Alfalfa production is estimated to use 15-20% of California's water. Yet, most of the Alfalfa grown there is shipped overseas.

So the state taxpayers are running out of water while paying for big business to use up the state's water supply while taking more millions!

What can Texas learn from this?

Water usage, droughts, and all of the attached concerns are not gone for good. West Texas has been blessed with much needed rain this year. But, the water in our area lakes, rivers, & aquifers won't last forever.

It's all about thinking and planning ahead!

We need to be responsible with our personal water usage. Water the yard only when necessary. Landscape using plants that don't need much water to thrive. Don't waste water inside the home. Use fixtures that conserve water and still get the job done.

But, I think most importantly, we need to make sure we hold government accountable for their part in conservation too.