… Urban development and water shortages are major drivers of farmland loss. Between 2016 and 2040, California is projected to lose more cropland to urbanization than any other state — over 300,000 acres. … There are few truly small farms left that are aiming to turn significant profits, according to Daniel Sumners, a professor of agricultural economics at UC Davis. The operations that can afford and benefit from agrobotics are mid-to-large farms that can secure loans for equipment purchases. … Across California’s Central Valley, a new generation of agrobotics founders is reshaping how innovation happens on the farm.

Other agricultural water use news:

• Comstock’s magazine (Sacramento, Calif.): The Central Valley tradition of cattle ranching faces an uncertain future
• The Business Journal (Fresno, Calif.): Near-record almond harvest forecast. Surprised industry ready to ‘stimulate demand’
• UC Santa Cruz: Research project shows how aquaculture, agriculture, and restoration can work together
• Imperial Valley Press (El Centro, Calif.): County Farm Bureau, assemblyman hold roundtable to hear local concerns