Are less-thirsty crops a solution to Colorado’s growing water problems?

Colorado State University tests drought-tolerant crops like black-eyed peas to address water shortages, as agriculture consumes up to 90% of the state's water. The article explores potential shifts from water-intensive crops (e.g., alfalfa) to less-thirsty alternatives (e.g., rye grass, camelina) to conserve water and ease conflicts over river supplies, but highlights challenges like market demand for traditional crops.