[Prev][Next][Index][Thread]

Re: Responsible comments wanted on DRAFT essay



November 1, 1996
Dear Jay Hanson <jhanson@ilhawaii.net>:

When considering the supply of food one’s perspective should be biased 
upon the following reality:

The importance of irrigated agriculture can not be overstated.  1/3 of the 
world’s food production comes from 4% of the world’s land.  This is only 
possible because of highly productive irrigated agriculture.  To replace 
this production it would be necessary to farm 36 additional Iowas.  There 
are not 36 additional Iowas on the planet.  Those who criticize irrigated 
agriculture should also take responsibility and point to those who would 
not be fed without irrigated agriculture.

Federal agencies are on record declaring that all the irrigation in the 
West in the past 100 years was a mistake.  This is an irresponsible 
position.

Clearly more energy will have to be directed toward irrigated agriculture. 

Mark, from the land of the Mighty Columbia!!



Follow-Ups: References: