The expansion of foreign agribusiness in Arizona raises questions about the sustainability of groundwater supplies and the potential impact on local communities.
In the arid landscape of western Arizona’s McMullen Valley, a lush green carpet of alfalfa stretches as far as the eye can see. For decades, the Hancock family has relied on groundwater to cultivate forage crops in this region. However, the arrival of Emirati agribusiness Al Dahra in the area has sparked concerns among local residents about the future availability of water. As the worst drought in centuries grips the Western United States, fears are growing that the state may prioritize transferring groundwater from rural areas to urban centers like Phoenix, leaving farmers in the lurch.
The Water Crisis and Global Agribusiness
The global water crisis and the impacts of climate change are driving companies to seek out water resources in far-flung locations. Gulf countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with their high temperatures, arid climates, and water scarcity, are particularly vulnerable. As a result, companies like Al Dahra are increasingly turning to countries like the United States, specifically Arizona, to secure water and land for agricultural purposes. This trend is likely to intensify as climate change exacerbates drought conditions and more countries seek alternative locations for food production.
Groundwater Concerns in Arizona
The unregulated pumping of groundwater in rural Arizona has become a cause for concern. Foreign agribusinesses, such as Al Dahra and Saudi dairy giant Almarai Co., have been accused of depleting local water sources to grow crops like alfalfa, which are then shipped overseas. The lack of regulations and measurement of water usage has led to dried-up wells, subsidence, and flooding in some areas. Local officials and residents are calling for stricter controls to protect the state’s groundwater resources.
The Need for Regulation
Experts argue that sensible regulation is necessary to balance the needs of agriculture with the preservation of groundwater supplies. In the past, countries like Saudi Arabia have been advised to import crops rather than drain their own aquifers. Similarly, Arizona must find a balance between supporting agriculture and preventing the depletion of its aquifers. Calls for measurement and control of water usage by farms are growing louder, with concerns about the long-term sustainability of water resources.
The Role of Foreign Agribusiness
Al Dahra, a subsidiary of the UAE-based investment and holding company ADQ, operates farming operations worldwide, growing crops for domestic use and export. The company acknowledges the challenges posed by climate change and emphasizes water and food security as priorities in its strategy. However, the company has not responded to requests for comment regarding its operations in Arizona. The expansion of foreign agribusiness in the state raises questions about the long-term impact on water resources and local communities.
Conclusion:
As the United Nations climate summit approaches, the issue of water scarcity and the role of foreign agribusiness in exacerbating the problem looms large. The expansion of companies like Al Dahra in Arizona highlights the complex challenges faced by regions grappling with drought and the need for sustainable water management. Striking a balance between agricultural needs and the preservation of groundwater resources is crucial to ensure the long-term viability of farming communities and the protection of vital water supplies.
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