CO River Water Conserv. on Hold and Farm Finances Remain Concern

**Farmers in California’s Imperial Valley preparing to participate this summer in programs to conserve Colorado

River water have had to put their plans on hold due to concerns from wildlife agencies that reduced farm water use could result in habitat loss for three endangered species.

During the environmental review process, wildlife agencies requested a biological consultation to ensure the programs would not violate laws that prohibit killing or harming endangered species.

**American food insecurity is increasing with the number of food-insecure people up over 40% in several states from 2021 to 2022, according to the annual “Map the Meal Gap” report from Feeding America.

The national rate of food insecurity is about 13%, but some areas are much higher rates.

North Dakota, up 57%, South Dakota and Iowa, up 45%, saw the biggest increases.

Washington, D.C., Hawaii, and Nevada saw the lowest rates.

**The Federal Reserve reports that farm finances remain a concern.

The Fed’s Beige Book noted that 10 of 12 districts reported slight to moderate growth in May, while the other two had no change.

The Beige Book says while drought conditions have eased in some districts, there’s still a concern about farm finances and incomes.

Overall ag outlooks grew more pessimistic due to reports of rising uncertainty and greater downside risks.