The Role of Land Retirement Programs for Management of Water Resources

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The Role of Land Retirement Programs for Management of Water Resources

1. Introduction

The water resources of the Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer (ESPA) are at the forefront
of the water shortages and dispute in Idaho. The ESPA is the single-most important aquifer in
Idaho. Irrigation practices and reduced reliance on surface water diversions have decreased the
spring discharge and groundwater levels in the ESPA. Increased pumping withdrawals and
reduced seepage from surface water as a result of conversions from surface to sprinkler irrigation
have led to a short fall of about 900,000 acre feet recharge every year to the aquifer. In Magic
Valley alone, about 1,300 farmers received notice to shut down their pumps, and 113,000 acres
kept idle (IGWA, 2004). Finding solution to Idaho’s water management problems is critical to
the sustainability of agriculture, livestock, and aquaculture sectors in Idaho. These sectors
provide many local jobs and contribute significantly to the Idaho’s economy. Since they heavily
rely on surface and groundwater, their long-term viability depends on the sustainable
management of water resources. In particular, serious threat of decline in the groundwater table
calls for the management of water resources such that there is a favorable balance between the
economic development and environment.

In order to find short-term and long-term solutions to Idaho’s water supply and
management problems, various public policy proposals have been introduced. For example,
shutting down thousands of groundwater pumps that reduce the flows of springs from the ESPA
has been considered. Another proposal considered by Idaho legislators has focused on curtailing
junior-right water users. This proposal aims at changing the ESPA water budget by 600,000 to
900,000 acre feet annually (Legislative Perspective, 2004). It will cost about $80 to $100 million
over 30 years and pay willing farmers and business owners to give up their water rights (IGWA,

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