What do you think could realistically be done to protect this ...

[DelorasTo]

What do you think could realistically be done to protect this immense
  but fi nite resource in the High Plains Aquifer? Propose a series of actions
  and a time line for implementing those actions. For example, what could
  you change about the type and acreage of the crops grown there, or the
  irrigation practices? What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Do you think this estimate is realistic? What factors could cause the High
  Plains Aquifer to run out of water sooner than your estimate? What will be an ideal response?

[mistyjohnson]

Answer to Question 1

Answers will vary. A combination of more effi cient irrigation methods, higher-yield
drought-tolerant crops, and increased use of imported surface water might decrease the
depletion rate.

Answer to Question 2

No, the estimate is not realistic. The aquifer is not the same thickness throughout, so
some areas will run out of water before others. If the climate becomes drier or the rate
of withdrawal increases, the aquifer will be depleted more quickly.

[DelorasTo]

Great answer, keep it coming

[atrochim]

TYSM