2. Characteristics of Agricultural System and Energy Resources

The Great Plains produces much of the nation’s food and fiber. The region produces nearly two-thirds of the nation’s wheat, more than half its beef, a fifth of its corn, a quarter of its cotton, four-fifths of its grain sorghum, and a sixth of its pork (Duncan et al. 1995). While wheat and beef production are important across most or all of the Great Plains states, one or more of the states also contribute significantly to production of other animal (hogs, dairy, broilers - i.e. chickens raised for meat, and sheep) and crop (corn, soybean, cotton, sorghum, canola and other) commodities (Table 2.1). Changes in land use management, climate, and hydrological extremes will impact how natural resources will be utilized and sustained over time in the Great Plains, affecting the region’s social wellbeing and ecosystem integrity.