In the heart of the Mid-South, an invisible lifeline courses beneath our feet, sustaining the region’s agricultural prowess and quenching the thirst of its communities. This lifeline is groundwater, and its significance cannot be overstated. As the adage goes, “out of sight, out of mind,” but when it comes to groundwater, we must keep it firmly in our minds, for it is the silent hero of the Mid-South’s water supply.
In Arkansas alone, groundwater supplied approximately 7.5 billion gallons of water daily in 2005, with nearly 7 billion gallons dedicated to irrigation. This is a testament to the state’s agricultural might, a $24 billion industry that relies heavily on irrigation. Edward Swaim, executive director of the Bayou Meto Water Management District in Lonoke, Arkansas, underscores the critical role of groundwater in sustaining this industry. “Groundwater is foundational for Arkansas, the Mid-South region, and beyond,” Swaim asserts. “It supplies the majority of our state’s water that is used for irrigation. So, it’s vital for groundwater levels to remain constant, or rise, to meet the state’s growing needs.”
The demand for water is not waning, and neither is the need for effective groundwater management. This is why Swaim’s upcoming presentation at the 12th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference is so timely. Co-hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation, the conference will delve into the complexities of groundwater law and agriculture in the Mid-South.
Swaim’s presentation, “Groundwater Law & Agriculture in the Mid-South: Taking Stock of the Road Ahead,” promises to be a deep dive into how Arkansas uses, measures, and addresses challenges to groundwater availability. Drawing from his experience in updating the Arkansas Water Plan, Swaim will also shed light on the strategies employed by other Mid-South states. “There is a lot we can learn from each other,” Swaim notes, highlighting the collaborative spirit that drives progress in water management.
The conference, set to take place on June 5-6 in Memphis, Tennessee, offers a unique platform for stakeholders to engage, learn, and network. The event kicks off with the annual “Beer & BBQ” networking dinner on the evening of June 5, providing a relaxed setting for attendees to connect. The main conference sessions will follow on June 6, featuring a lineup of experts and thought leaders in agricultural and environmental law.
For those unable to attend in person, the conference will also be available via livestream, ensuring that the insights and discussions reach a wider audience. Registration and more information can be found at nationalaglawcenter.org/midsouth2025. This event is not just a conference; it’s a call to action, a reminder that while groundwater may be out of sight, it should never be out of mind. The future of the Mid-South’s agriculture and communities depends on it.