This area of Mexico recently underwent a change in agricultural practices that has had an impact on the region so great that it can be seen from space.

These images, taken by the Landsat satellite in 1992 (left) and 2010 (right) show how increased use of water from a major reservoir has affected this part of the state of Chihuahua. Most drastically, a switch to center pivot irrigation shows up as bright red circles. The water is being used for growing alfalfa and sorghum to feed livestock.

Diverting more water from the reservoir has also affected native vegetation in the area and reduced the amount of water flowing into the Rio Grande River.

High-resolution version

See Also: