Fall 2012: Rooted in Colorado
Grown in Colorado
October 2, 2012 by Caitlin Coleman
Colorado boasts ideal growing conditions for a wide range of products once water is added to the mix. The state’s farms and ranches provide a bounty that reaches 115 nations and, in Colorado, is one of the leading drivers of the state’s economy.
A Public Resource With a Private Right to Use
Colorado’s doctrine of prior appropriation is a legal system governing water’s use. A look at how the system evolved, how it actually works, and, in a watershort year like 2012, how it plays out for the state’s farmers and ranchers.
Keeping Water on the Farm
Farms need water. Cities and industries need it too. Why creative approaches are necessary to maximize Colorado’s ability to maintain the best of both worlds.
The Ever-Evolving Farmer
Access to water boosts yields and minimizes risk in an inherently risky industry, where the up-front costs are high and the returns uncertain. Faced with drought and an increasingly competitive marketplace for water rights, farmers must innovate to survive.
Climax Comes Back
How water resources are being protected at Leadville’s newly re-opened Climax molybdenum mine.
Classroom Connection
Bringing agricultural awareness into Colorado’s classrooms.