Research highlight summarizing innovations in forecasting, remote sensing, and smart water markets in the Columbia River Basin.
This research highlight summarizes outcomes from the Technology for Trade (T4T) project, a multi-year effort to improve water allocation and efficiency in the Columbia River Basin. The publication outlines three complementary innovations: improved seasonal forecasting, remote measurement of crop consumptive use, and computer-aided “smart” water markets. Seasonal forecasting work focused on translating climate outlooks into usable water availability metrics for agricultural decision-making. Remote sensing advancements improved the precision of evapotranspiration and consumptive use estimates using satellite imagery and modeling. The smart water markets component developed agent-based models and open-source “water market games” to simulate water trading scenarios under real-world regulatory constraints. The highlight also emphasizes the intersection of technology with legal, regulatory, and contractual frameworks necessary to protect water rights while enabling flexible transfers. Case studies focus on four Columbia River Basin watersheds: Yakima, Walla Walla, Methow, and Okanogan.
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Authors
Yoder, J. and Yorgey, G.
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Suggested Citation
Yoder, J., Yorgey, G. 2024. Technology for Trade: New Tools and New Rules for Water Use and Allocation in Agriculture and Beyond. State of Washington Water Research Center, Washington State University, Pullman, WA.
Year Published
2024
Areas of Focus
Agricultural Technology, Climate & Environment, Research Engagement & Communication, and Water Resources & Policy
Topics
Climate Change, Natural Resources, Production Systems, and Water Resources
