Red and green apple slices after the freeze-drying process
Case Study

Freeze Drying Crops for Increased Climate Change Resilience in New Mexico

As a result of climate change , average temperatures in New Mexico may increase by up to 7°F over the next 50 years, decreasing water availability and subjecting crops to heat and drought stress. In response, Backyard Farms, a farm with multiple sites throughout southern New Mexico, freeze dries the crops of farmers throughout the state to decrease the food lost to extreme weather.

Location New Mexico
Year
2024

Details

Hazards
Changing Seasons
Drought
Flooding – General
Multiple or All Hazards
Assets
Agriculture and Food Supply
Economy
Multiple or All Assets
People
Sources

Follow the link below to read the full case study from the FWS Conservation and Adaptation Resources Toolbox (CART) case study library:

Freeze Drying Crops for Increased Climate Change Resilience in New Mexico

Funding & Building Capacity

This project was funded by USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant and Cruces Creatives.

Organizations

US Fish & Wildlife Service

Relevant Options

Diversify food supply chains to prepare for potential impacts from changing seasons and extreme events. For example, support local food production by promoting new technologies, encouraging farmers to Educate farmers on selecting crops that can withstand a wider variety of weather and seasonal changes. Where appropriate, promote planting future climate adapted trees, plants and crop species.

Steps to Resilience

Get Started
Understand Exposure
Assess Vulnerability & Risk
Investigate Options
Prioritize & Plan
Take Action
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Image Credit

Rachael Ryan/Backyard Farms