Connecting the dots: Idaho’s agriculture, water and food

Idaho is known for agriculture—particularly potatoes—across the world. In a state with plenty of land for farms, ranches and dairies, there is also an abundance of water. Without water to sustain Idaho’s most famous crops, the state would not rank first in the nation for the production of potatoes, trout, barley or peppermint.

However, ongoing droughts are affecting the amount of water Idaho has available to put toward agriculture. Growers and residents alike are looking at a future where they must prioritize how and where they use water.