#213: Lands With Benefits
Published on by Travis Loop, Founder of waterloop, a nonprofit news outlet exploring solutions for sustainability in water.
Water scarcity and groundwater overuse are driving land use dilemmas in California, particularly in agriculture.
One promising solution gaining traction is multi-benefit land repurposing, which involves transforming unproductive farmland to capture rain, floods, and diverted water for groundwater recharge. These repurposed lands also provide various advantages for wildlife, recreation, education, and climate adaptation.
This episode delves into discussions with experts and stakeholders involved in the program, such as Ann Hayden, Vice President of Resilient Water Systems at the Environmental Defense Fund.
The potential of multi-benefit land repurposing is showcased through visits to Pixley National Wildlife Refuge, Kaweah Oaks Preserve, Joseph Gallo Farms, and Castroville Slough Treatment Wetlands.
Despite its complexity and cost, the program is gaining momentum, offering hope for California and beyond.