Case Study

Regenerative Agriculture in the Arid Southwest at Oatman Flats Ranch

After decades of intensive horse ranching and cotton farming in the lower Gila River region, Oatman Flats Ranch transitioned from conventional to organic practices in 2018, then to regenerative agricultural practices in 2020. With their minimal tillage model and leverage of traditional agricultural knowledge, Oatman Flats seeks to restore balance to their land while producing crops profitably.

Location Gila Bend, Arizona

Year

2023

Details

Hazards

Changing Seasons

Erosion and Shoreline Recession

Assets

Agriculture and Food Supply

Multiple or All Assets

Natural Areas and Wildlife

Water Infrastructure – General

Sources

Follow this link to read the full case study from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service:

Regenerative Agriculture in the Arid Southwest at Oatman Flats Ranch

Funding & Building Capacity

This project was funded by The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Water Irrigation Efficiency Program.

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

Understand Exposure

Assess Vulnerability & Risk

Investigate Options

Prioritize & Plan

Browse all case studies

Image Credit

Ariel Léger/University of Arizona