ISSUES FROM THE STANDPOINT OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMISTS

The National Global Climate Change Research Program is supporting appraisals of water and agriculture among others. This paper discusses ways that the agricultural appraisal impact analysis could benefit in terms of improved treatment of water/climate change related issues. The discussion addresses potential improvements regarding treatment of 1) irrigation water availability and use; 2) baseline future for agricultural in terms of water supply and demand; 3) effects of climate variability on agricultural water use. In formation is also presented on anticipated procedures regarding water assumptions in the Agricultural assessment