Here’s some (proverbial) food for thought. Are you aware of ways in which the energy industry supports agricultural production? Many people aren’t aware of the ways oil and agricultural production work together to optimize use of natural resources, promote conservation, feed people, grow the economy, and protect the environment.
In California, local energy production actually provides an additional source of water used to irrigate and grow crops. Although this state has faced water shortages due to growth and natural conditions, energy producers have processes in place that recycles used water, creating additional supply for farmers.
To understand how that works, you have to start by looking at some facts and statistics that contribute to the bigger picture. First, it helps to recognize how much agricultural product comes from California. Consider that eight percent of ALL crops produced in the U.S are grown in California. Those crops are 40 percent of the table foods (such as fruits and nuts) consumed nationwide.
Based on those conditions, it’s easy to understand how the hunger for water is high! So, where does the water go? Half of California’s natural water is reserved for environmental habitat. Of the remaining 50 percent, the majority (40 percent) is used by farmers. The last 10 percent is consumed by people.
But that water isn’t enough to keep farmers’ crops watered. Each year, crop acreage lies fallowed because there isn’t enough water to use in production. Enter the energy industry. For more than 30 years, energy production has created a sustainable, recyclable source of water that can be used for crop irrigation.
The recycled water is a byproduct of energy production. When oil and gas reserves below the ground are tapped, the water mixed in can be separated out and treated. When water is reclaimed from energy production, it’s called “produced water.” The water is processed, treated, and delivered to water districts in California, where it is blended with other surface and groundwater and released to farmers.
This source of water is tested by both California regulators, as well as the U.S Environmental Protection Agency.
Even better, it’s a source of water that helps to conserve resources, provide a sustainable solution, and supports agricultural growth. Recently, more than 16.3 billion gallons of water recycled from energy production was used to irrigate more than 50,000 acres. That’s a statistic you can feel good about.
We’re proud to be part of the California energy industry, and to support agricultural producers as a commercial fuel delivery provider and lubricant supplier!
Need more information? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Greg’s Petroleum Service. As your fuel delivery service provider in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clarita or Ventura, California areas, we are available to help answer any questions you might have. Visit us online or give us a call to learn more.