A new report from the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) finds that drainage water recycling—capturing and reusing water from tile drainage—could help Midwest farmers manage erratic rainfall, stabilize feed supplies, and improve water quality.
The report, Economic Analysis of Drainage Water Recycling: Opportunities for Supporting Farm Resilience and Water Quality, outlines how the practice can boost farm income and deliver public benefits such as cleaner waterways and flood mitigation.
“Drainage water recycling has the potential to help farmers and communities handle both drought and flood risks,” said Will McDow of EDF. “It’s a strategy that supports resilience and water quality at the same time.”
Improving Feed Reliability and Reducing Costs
For beef producers, the impact may be indirect but meaningful. More stable water access for corn, soy, and forage producers helps protect feed supply and reduce price volatility.
EDF’s analysis found that drainage water recycling could increase crop income by $130 to $146 per acre annuallywhile lowering operating costs by $10–$20 per acre. For feedlot and backgrounding operations, those improvements can ripple through the supply chain—creating more predictable feed pricing and availability.
Strengthening Watersheds
Beyond economic gains, the report highlights broad environmental benefits. Capturing and reusing drainage water improves water quality, reduces nutrient runoff, and lessens flood impacts across shared watersheds.
“Drainage water recycling is gaining momentum,” said Chuck Brandel, Principal Engineer and ISG’s National Agricultural Drainage Expert. “Our partnership with EDF clarifies cost, risk, and return so producers can make informed decisions.”
Funding and Collaboration
Installation costs can range from $1.8 to $3.3 million, making shared funding strategies essential. EDF recommends cooperative models where landowners invest in irrigation components, while public and district programs fund conservation and infrastructure improvements.
A Tool for Climate Adaptation
As weather extremes intensify, water recycling represents a practical resilience measure. It helps farmers conserve resources, protect yields, and build stronger, more sustainable rural economies.
