The Stream, May 7: U.A.E. Farmers and Government To Halve Agricultural Water Use By 2014

Farmers in the United Arab Emirates face a unique challenge when it comes to saving water, The New York Times reported. The hostile natural conditions of little rainfall and tremendous heat means a desperate need for irrigation despite short and declining supplies. The government is working with farmers to reduce agricultural water use in half by 2014.

Rainfall Trends Point to Extremes
Climate change may result in more extreme rainfall in the tropics and drought in temperate regions, according to a new study on rainfall trends led by NASA. In other words, ‘Wet areas will get wetter and dry areas will get drier,’ climatologist and water expert Peter Gleick said in the Los Angeles Times.

A Wildfire Rush
Wildfires like the one in Southern California wildfire on Sunday typically does not strike until late summer or fall, Ventura County Fire Capt. Dan Horton told USA Today. There have been more than 680 wildfires in the state this year – about 200 more than average. Hot and dry conditions are fueling fires to burn faster and this will only get worse as summer arrives.

Food Security in the Pacific Islands
Global warming is threatening the food security and lifestyles of Pacific islanders, the Guardian reported. The islands are among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change: increasing acidity and rising sea level, natural disasters and damage to coral reefs. Results are damages to the fishing industry and crops.

The Stream is a daily digest spotting global water trends. To get more water news, followCircle of Blue on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.