The
dry, hot weather in the Southwest region requires farmers to use irrigation
to grow crops. Irrigation means that water is taken from wells and rivers
to water crops. The Colorado River provides a lot of the water for growing
crops. Irrigation has allowed the Southwest to become a leader in the production
of certain crops.
Cotton
is the major crop of the Southwest region. Irrigation has allowed farmers
in this region to grow cotton. Cotton needs a lot of sun, warm weather
and water to grow. Texas is the number one cotton producing state
in the United States.
Rice
is another important crop grown on the Gulf Coastal Plain in Texas. Rice
is a crop that needs a lot of water to grow. The plant is under water for
some of the growing time. Rain and irrigation provide the needed water.
Oranges,
lemons and grapefruit are grown in the Southwest. Texas is third in the
nation for citrus fruit production. Vegetables are also grown in this region.
Many of these crops are shipped to other states in the winter so that people
can buy fresh produce. New Mexico leads the nation in the production of
chiles
and summer onions.
Beef
cattle is raised in the Southwest. Texas raises more beef cattle than any
other U.S. state. Texas is also the leading sheep raising state. In the
1500's Spanish explores and colonist brought livestock to the Southwest.
New Mexico is also
a leader in the livestock industry.
