2021 PLOS One study finds climate change increased California's San Joaquin Valley crop water demand by a major reservoir size in 12 years.

Climate change increases California's San Joaquin Valley crop water demand to the size of a major reservoir in just 12 years, according to a study published in PLOS One journal. The region, integral to fruit and nut production, has faced severe droughts and extreme temperatures causing evaporation of water supply. The study estimated the water demand for crops over the past 40 years, with climate change-based effects contributing to a significant increase in demand.