Imperial Valley Grower Increases Yields While Cutting Water Use
Water Scarcity Demands Innovation
Andrew Leimgruber of Leimgruber Farms in California’s Imperial Valley knows what it means to farm under extreme water limitations—his operation receives just two inches of water a year. But despite these constraints, Andrew has managed to reduce his water use by 25 to 30 percent while increasing yields.
“We live in an era of allocations and limits… We want to get the most crop per drop.” — Andrew Leimgruber
In a conversation with Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter”, Leimgruber described how he’s adopted every possible efficiency to stretch each gallon of water.
Adapting to California’s Agricultural Limits
From political challenges to environmental restrictions, Leimgruber is keenly aware that California farmers are under pressure. Yet his focus remains on innovation—not politics.
“We’re going to be limited on land. We’re going to be limited on water,” he said. “So we’re having to be more efficient with every drop.”
With less water and tighter regulation, precision agriculture and new techniques are vital for growers in the Imperial Valley and beyond.
Hear the Full Interview
In the full interview, Andrew Leimgruber talks about:
- Water-saving innovations on his farm
- The reality of growing with extreme water scarcity
- Broader concerns like foreign ownership of U.S. farmland
Catch the full conversation only on AgNet West.
Reporter: Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter” | AgNet West