Rewriting the rules for water use in the High Plains
The July issue of CSA News is online! This month's cover story examines local approaches to slow down groundwater depletion in the U.S. High Plains.
August offers an opportunity to advocate for science
Tips and strategies for making your voice heard during the congressional recess
Research institutions in the United States, undeniably, cannot work at their full capacity without funding from the federal government. But recent proposed cuts to federal programs leave some Society members concerned about their ability to run their research programs in the upcoming future. CSA News sat down with Julie McClure, a scientist and agricultural policy expert who works with Torrey Advisory Group and the Societies, to discuss how ASA, CSSA, and SSSA members can advocate for their work during the upcoming August congressional recess.
Featured articles
USDA releases action plan for farm, research security
Last week, USDA released its National Farm Security Action Plan, identifying agriculture as critical infrastructure and emphasizing its role in national security. The report identifies threats to agriculture from foreign adversaries, cyberattacks, bioterrorism, and supply chain vulnerabilities. The plan also outlines specific actions USDA will undertake, in coordination with other government agencies, to protect American farmland, enhance agricultural supply chain resilience, safeguard nutrition programs, secure research, and strengthen domestic agricultural productivity.
Rewriting the rules for water use in the High Plains
Local approach to water conservation gaining momentum
The Ogallala Aquifer is a vital water source for agriculture and drinking across the High Plains. Historical agricultural practices—combined with slow regeneration—are rapidly depleting groundwater across the region.
Some High Plains states are trying to slow down groundwater depletion by reducing water use across the Ogallala. One such program, named Local Enhanced Management Areas, or LEMAs, is catching the eye of water managers across the region for its uniquely local approach to water conservation.
While LEMAs have shown promise in stabilizing water use in some Kansas regions, broader adoption across the High Plains faces legal, cultural, and climatic challenges, highlighting the need for adaptable, community-driven water policies.
Recent articles
Recent articles
Inclusive mentoring in STEM
Dr. Karina Vielma and the culture shift towards belonging and mutual growth
At the 2024 Annual Meeting of ASA, CSSA, and SSSA (now known as CANVAS), Dr. Karina Vielma, Assistant Professor of Engineering Education at the University of Texas at San Antonio, delivered a powerful keynote during the DEI Summit titled, “Inclusive Mentoring in STEM: Empowering Our Future.” Her talk was a deeply personal call to reimagine mentoring as a transformative relationship that recognizes and nurtures the whole person.
Science explained
One of the great features of our new site is our "Science Explained" section where we bridge the gap between our sciences and society, explaining key concepts and research in language that is easy to understand by all, including those without formal scientific training. Visit us each week as we continue to add more sections and content.
We want to hear from you
Do you have an article you'd like to submit or feedback for the magazine team? Let us know!
