Montana farmers know that water is one of the most precious resources in agriculture. With dryland farming making up a large share of production in the state, crops that use water efficiently are especially valuable. Pulse crops—such as lentils, peas, and chickpeas—stand out for their ability to thrive with less water than many other common crops.
How Pulse Crops Use Water
Pulse crops have a relatively shallow root system compared to crops like wheat or corn, but they use the water available to them very effectively. Their shorter growing season allows them to make the most of spring rains and complete much of their life cycle before the hottest and driest part of summer. This makes them well-suited for Montana’s semi-arid climate, where conserving soil moisture is critical.
Another advantage is that pulses typically require less irrigation than crops such as corn, soybeans, or alfalfa. For many producers in Montana who rely on dryland systems, pulses can be grown successfully on natural rainfall, reducing both production costs and pressure on local water supplies.
Comparing Pulse Crops to Other Crops
When compared to cereal grains like wheat and barley, pulse crops generally need less water per bushel produced. Crops such as corn or alfalfa, which have longer growing seasons and higher water demand, often require irrigation in Montana. In contrast, pulses fit well into rotations where irrigation water is limited or unavailable.
This efficiency doesn’t just benefit the grower—it also improves long-term soil and water conservation. Pulse crops leave behind crop residues that help retain soil moisture, and their ability to fix nitrogen reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, further minimizing the environmental footprint of production.
A Role in Climate Resilience
In years of drought or limited precipitation, pulse crops can provide a reliable option when other crops struggle. Their water efficiency makes them a strong choice for risk management in Montana agriculture. At the same time, including pulses in rotations can improve the performance of subsequent crops by conserving soil moisture and improving soil health.
The Bottom Line
Pulse crops offer Montana farmers an opportunity to produce a valuable, marketable crop while making smart use of limited water resources. Compared to crops like corn, soybeans, or alfalfa, pulses require less water and are better adapted to dryland conditions. By incorporating pulse crops into their rotations, Montana growers not only conserve water but also strengthen the long-term resilience of their operations and the health of Montana’s agricultural landscapes.
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