Water use is a critical issue that affects various sectors, including agriculture, industry, municipalities, and the environment. In Texas, agriculture is the largest consumer of water, utilizing more than 60% of available supplies. This water is essential for producing $159.3 billion worth of food and fiber annually, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.
Recognizing the importance of sustainable water use in agriculture, Texas Tech University’s Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources and the Texas Section of the American Water Works Association are collaborating to host the Agricultural Water Sustainability Summit (AWSS). This inaugural event aims to create a platform for stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and envision a future where water resources are used efficiently and responsibly.
The summit, scheduled to take place at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center from August 7-9, will bring together a diverse group of water users, including researchers, industry professionals, producers, and students. The goal is to foster a dialogue between agricultural and urban water users to make informed decisions about water use in the region.
Krishna Jagadish, the Thornton Distinguished Chair in the Department of Plant & Soil Science and director of the Davis College Water Center, emphasizes the importance of collaboration and innovation in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. By creating a forum for stakeholders to share knowledge and ideas, the summit aims to shape a new vision for water use in agriculture.
The organizers envision the Agricultural Water Sustainability Summit as the premier event for discussing water sustainability in agriculture. They hope to attract visionary researchers, practitioners, and industry experts from across the country to explore innovative solutions for water management in agriculture.
With agriculture playing a significant role in the Texas economy and national food supply, it is crucial to prioritize sustainable water use practices. By fostering collaboration and dialogue among various water users, the summit seeks to address the challenges of water scarcity and ensure the long-term viability of water resources for future generations.
For more information on the Agricultural Water Sustainability Summit, including registration and vendor details, interested individuals can visit the event’s website. By participating in this annual event, stakeholders can contribute to shaping a more sustainable future for water use in agriculture and beyond.