Farmers are facing increasing challenges due to prolonged droughts, prompting researchers at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) to explore innovative methods for growing crops with minimal water use.
Naomi Robert, a senior researcher at KPU’s Institute for Sustainable Food Systems (ISFS), highlights that climate change has intensified summer droughts, making it crucial for farmers to adapt their practices.
To address this issue, KPU researchers teamed up with the Dry Farming Collaborative at Oregon State University (OSU) to study dry farming techniques. This method relies on retaining soil moisture without relying on irrigation, making it particularly useful in regions with wet winters and dry summers, such as the Pacific Northwest.
The goal is to help farmers understand soil moisture retention and adjust their crops accordingly.
In 2023, British Columbia experienced extreme drought conditions, leading to water restrictions and emergency measures. Many farmers struggled with water shortages, affecting both crop yields and overall farm sustainability. Recognizing this urgency, KPU organized workshops to educate local farmers about dry farming techniques. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with farmers seeing it as a promising approach to countering water scarcity.
Key dry farming strategies include selecting drought-resistant crops, improving soil health, optimizing plant spacing, and using mulch to reduce evaporation. While dry farming is not a new concept, modern research is necessary to refine these practices for current agricultural needs.
Farmers often lack the time and resources for in-depth research, making collaborative initiatives like KPU’s essential for knowledge-sharing and innovation.
With support from the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food, KPU is conducting trials on three farms to evaluate dry farming techniques in different conditions. These trials aim to assess which crops thrive with minimal water and to develop best practices that can be shared through future workshops.
Local farmer Jaclyn Kirby has implemented dry farming techniques with KPU’s guidance, acknowledging its long-term benefits in adapting to climate change. Through continued research and collaboration, KPU aims to support farmers in building resilient agricultural systems that can withstand future droughts.