1、 https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated June 4, 2021Drought Response and Preparedness: Policy and LegislationIn recent years, large areas of the United States have been subject to drought. In addition to estimates of average annual losses from drought of $9 billion for agriculture, the effects have
2、included dwindling water supplies for rural households and water use restrictions in urban areas. As of mid-2021, the western United States is in the midst of its most severe drought since the early 2000s (see Figure 1), with some areas facing their driest years on record. Some experts have raised c
3、oncerns about the availability of water supplies and the droughts impacts on forests and other flora and fauna. Congress and other policymakers are confronted with how to prepare for and monitor droughts, how to mitigate drought-related consequences, and who should bear responsibility for these acti
4、ons. Historically, drought response and preparedness have been shaped by state and local actions, federal drought assistance, and federal dam operations, among other factors. Figure 1. Drought in 17 Western States Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, https:/droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DmData/TimeSeries.aspxhttp
