Northern Nevada agriculture producers are facing drought and water scarcity, with Fallon being a town that is particularly familiar with these challenges.
U.S. Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small paid a visit to Abe's Hay'n' Feed Farm, originally known as L.C. Schank and Sons, located off Austin Highway in Fallon on Monday.
Originally established as a dairy farm in 1939, the farm transitioned to growing hay and feed crops due to market changes over the years.
The Agriculture Deputy Secretary highlighted an investment by the U.S. Department of Agriculture aimed at supporting the farm.
"In the West, we are seeing more droughts, and farmers are doing everything they can to adapt to that. USDA is stepping up with Biden Harris Administration to invest in those unique solutions that farmers are coming up with and working directly with irrigation districts to help support those projects," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xocthitl Torres Small.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced a $300 million investment in twelve states and eighteen irrigation districts across the West to support water-saving initiatives.
"Here we're focusing on, specifically on, water saving commodities to support farmers as they find ways in. There are years low water they build out stronger irrigation systems or work with water deficit farming or increased precision agriculture," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Torres Small.
And Abe's Hay'N Feed Farm produces a water-saving commodity. It produces a variety of hay and forages, including alfalfa, timothy, and beardless wheat.
"The more efficient we can become with that water, it allows us to produce more, be more efficient, and do more with less. So, anytime we can find a savings in water we do so over the years," said Abrahm Schank.
The Truckee Carson Irrigation District is the exclusive district chosen for Nevada. However, the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture mentioned that they are seeking future investments in other water districts in Nevada.
