Agricultural Water Management

Shifts in water availability, quality, and/or policy can have profound impacts on agricultural producers and the communities they support. One Water Econ integrates economic analysis with hydrologic and remote sensing data, alongside deep expertise in irrigation practices, to inform water supply planning, flood control programs, and market design and incentive programs. Our work helps agencies and stakeholders navigate tradeoffs, design effective interventions, and support resilient agricultural systems.

• Agricultural Demand Management - Policies & Incentives

   Designing effective conservation incentives for agricultural producers requires a nuanced understanding of on-farm economics and regional ripple effects. One Water Econ evaluates the financial and operational effects of conservation incentives on growers, their role in local economies, and the potential benefits to water supply systems. We conduct return-on-investment analyses to help agencies craft programs that are both cost-effective and impactful.

• Agriculture & Watershed Program Design

  On-farm practices play a critical role in protecting and restoring rural watersheds. Using integrated hydrologic and economic data, we assess the costs, yield impacts, and benefits of agricultural strategies such as nutrient management, irrigation efficiency, and demand reduction. Our work supports watershed-scale planning and helps align agricultural practices with broader environmental and community goals.

• Economic Impact of Water Policies & Projects

  Changes in on-farm water use can impact feed and fuel purchases, farm labor needs, and crop yield. By modeling associated changes in agricultural output and effects on local and regional economies, we assist in the development of targeted policies and programs that benefit producers, communities, and watersheds.