Water Resource Demand Analysis in the Loess Plateau Area Based on Food Security: A Case Study of Changwu County in Shaanxi Province

Abstract

The shortage of water resources has been a major problem in the Loess Plateau. Under the situation of a steady increase in population, cultivated land gradation and rapid development of regional economy, how to achieve food security has been becoming an important issue in this region. Thus, a typical case study of Changwu County in Shaanxi Province was conducted. With the help of grey correlation analysis method, it concluded that the water resource is the leading factor in limiting the local food safety. Furthermore, the water consumption and water demand at various sectors are compared and analyzed. Then, the crop-water production function was introduced to optimize the irrigation water allocation. The paper finally discussed the development strategy on water resources utilization and food security, which would provide a scientific basis for the water resources exploitation and be a guarantee for the food security in Changwu County.