Arizona has five Cs: copper, cattle, citrus, climate and cotton. In September's Green Living AZ Magazine, the latest in cotton research, farmer livelihood, and climate change impacts are highlighted by Michelle Talsma Everson. In the article, Sustainability Scientist Hallie Eakin shares insights from her research on water management by cotton farmers.
"The cotton farmers who have stuck it out in the industry are pretty committed to being here," Eakin says. "They of course want cotton farming to continue, and this study can help address what that means for water availability, electricity, and more."
The researchers hope this study will alleviate any misconceived notions about cotton farmers, and assist cotton growers, policy makers, and urban planners in water conservation and sustainable agriculture in Arizona's arid climate.