Improved water efficiency can make a splash in Canadian agriculture

Rain makes grain. Adequate rainfall during the growing season is essential for good yields. This highlights the crucial role water plays in Canadian agriculture and the food we eat. Yet, perhaps because of public perceptions of ample water resources, Canadians may not make this connection. Rather it’s during times of extreme drought when the precious resource gets the attention it deserves.

Water usage has indeed surged in the agricultural sector in recent years due to dry conditions. The latest Canadian System of Environmental–Economic Accounts, which was released last July, shows more than two billion cubic metres were used for crop production in 2021, representing 6.1% of industrial water usage (Figure 1). Including animal production, agriculture’s share of industrial water usage was a record 11%.

So, how significant is the increase in agriculture water usage and how does Canada compare to other major agriculture producers around the world?

Read More