Agriculture accounts for 80-90 percent of U.S. consumptive water use. ERS draws on findings from several national surveys and current literature to assess water resource use and conservation measures within the irrigated crop sector.

ERS examines the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of census tracts that have been identified as food deserts–areas where residents have limited access to healthy, affordable food.

Net farm income is forecast above $122 billion in 2012, a nominal-value record reflecting rises in corn and soybean prices and crop insurance indemnities. Median farm household income is expected up by 1.2 percent to $57,762.

The 2012 edition provides resource-and environment-related information including farmland area, productivity, irrigation, pesticide use, adoption of genetically engineered crops, fertilizer use, conservation practices, and land retirement.