Grow Alternative Crops

Traditionally, alfalfa hay grown in this region is a successful crop that requires significant water resources. Shifting to alternative crops that require less water to grow may be an option for reducing groundwater use, be more drought-resistant, and provide comparable revenue.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

  • Explore alternative crops such as mint, perennial ryegrass, brewery grains, carrots for seed, hemp, etc.

  • Explore biomass viable crops (e.g., fuel source for hog fuel burners).

  • Explore shifting planting timing to reduce water requirement for alfalfa hay.

  • Explore growing alfalfa for seed.

  • Explore growing native seeds for rangeland restoration and other uses.

  • Engage with an agriculture crops specialist with knowledge of areas like this region.

 

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

  • TBD

 

 FEEDBACK & SUPPORT

Questions about alternative crops? Already shifted production from alfalfa? 

Contact xxxxxxxx at xxxxxxxxxx to provide an update on your water-use status.