Urban Ag for Southern Californians (March 2015) | Page 14

Water
Water is the lifeblood of any agricultural
system. Before starting your urban agriculture
project it is important to choose a site with an
appropriate supply of this resource. Sources of
water contain varying degrees of different
elements and chemicals and they may have
different effects on your food system. Know
what is in your water by obtaining a water
quality report from your local municipal
company. Water harvesting techniques can
offset water cost over time but do the math to
understand its financial viability. There are a
variety of irrigation systems to choose from.
Select irrigation systems that are appropriate
for your method of farming and irrigate during
the proper times of day. The best place to store
water is in the landscape. Build your soil
structure to decrease your water demands.
Save Our Water:
California has been in a drought for several years, and has been implementing water-saving
strategies statewide. Save Our Water is a statewide program aimed at helping Californians
reduce their everyday water use. Browse the Save Our Water website to uncover ideas on
saving water indoors and out. You’ll find ideas for creating a beautiful, water-efficient
garden and fun ways for kids to save water.
http://saveourwater.com/
EPA Water Research
Research articles and publications produced by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Tools, models, and databases for water management. Laws, regulations and policies
developed by EPA.
http://www2.epa.gov/water-research