California growers are taking an increasing amount of agricultural land out of production every year because of lack of available irrigation water to grow those crops. And there is likely little argument that laws and regulations play an outsized role in that equation. Statewide, the debate revolves around where the fault lies and what solutions can assure the largest and most productive agricultural region in the United States, and probably the world, remains in that lofty position. … [California Farm Water Coalition Executive Director Michelle] Paul said that as SGMA regulations are being written and implemented, growers have to manage their own acreage knowing they will have less water in the future.

Other agriculture news:

• The Business Journal (Fresno, Calif.): Blue Diamond pegs 2026 almond crop at 2.69 billion pounds amid rising costs, water pressures​
• Arizona Capitol Times (Phoenix): Free trade with Mexico and Canada is critical for Arizona farmers, governor says