California Drought: Almond Growers Fight Back Over Reports They Are Causing Chronic Water Shortages

The almond – and popular products like almond milk and almond butter – have become a target of austerity measure as California officials scramble for ways to conserve water and ease the state’s severe drought. Tim Walker reports for the Independent: “California grows 80 per cent of the world’s almonds, but it is two other widely reported statistics that have caused controversy: cultivating a single thirsty almond takes more than a gallon of water, and almonds alone account for almost 10 per cent of California’s agricultural water consumption.” Growing almonds requires more water than the city of Los Angeles. The almond soared in popularity after being credited for reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, arthritis, cancers and Alzheimer’s disease. The outcry over almond trees began after the state placed limits on water use for urban residents. Californians are scrutinizing just how much water is used for each crop and export levels. Two thirds of California’s almond crop is exported. – YaleGlobal