I think discussion of topsoil needs to be a part of this conversation. Mechanized farming is stripping the land of topsoil and by design increases surface area

I think discussion of topsoil needs to be a part of this conversation. Mechanized farming is stripping the land of topsoil and by design increases surface area that leads to evaporation. Compare to healthy topsoil that retains moisture and produces more nutritious crop. Total water demand would be reduced.