The California drought is still in full-effect and we’re also in the heart of growing season. The bounty at farmers’ markets is growing each week as tomatoes, squash, potatoes, greens and other locally grown fruits of labor are picked for use by home cooks and restaurants.
How much water does it take to grow some of our favorite Sonoma Valley veggies and fruits?
As pointed out by one of our humble, anonymous readers in the comments section, this focuses more on mass production growth. Think, Central Valley growers trying to feed the entire country – not (necessarily) local farmers producing product for the farmers’ market.
All the more reason to eat local, right?
According to the the Water Footprint Network it takes this much water, in the land of mass production, to grow one
- Tomato = 13 gallons
- Peach or nectarine = 36 gallons
- Lettuce = 62 gallons
- Potato = 76 gallons
- Cucumber or pumpkin: 93 gallons
- Cabbage = 62 gallons
The Water Footprint Network has a very fascinating website based on worldwide farming data. Explore other products, such as meats, biofuel and cheese via waterfootprint.org.
I think this “article” is really irresponsible. What should be pointed out is how much more water it takes to grow, store, and transport produce that is not grown locally. The truth is that locally grown produce is the much more responsible choice when it comes to water use, not to mention the many other benefits.
Want to save water? Eat local and eat fresh.