Irrigation
The process of supplying water to land to grow crops
Real World Example
In history, irrigation in the Western Hemisphere was crucial for early civilizations like the Aztecs and the Incas, who developed advanced systems to bring water to their fields, allowing them to grow crops in otherwise dry areas. This was important because it solved the problem of inconsistent rainfall and enabled communities to produce enough food to support large populations. Today, irrigation remains vital for agriculture, ensuring steady food production even in areas prone to drought or with limited natural water sources. For example, in California, farmers rely on irrigation to grow fruits and vegetables that supply grocery stores across the country. This impacts everyday life by helping to keep food available and affordable for everyone, highlighting how essential water management continues to be.