By Matt Sepic, KWMU
St. Louis, MO. – Organizers of this year's World Agricultural Forum in St. Louis say access to fresh water is a problem that will increase as the century progresses.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister James Bolger heads the forum.
He says getting water to people and crops is a dilemma that nearly all countries share.
"Most countries have water problems either real or very close by. And that includes the mainland United States, parts of New Zealand, virtually all of Africa. So, managing water is going to become a universal problem," Bolger said.
Bolger also says poverty is a direct result of ineffective food and water policies.
The World Agricultural Forum gathers government and business leaders, as well as representatives of nongovernmental organizations. They discuss food and trade issues, but do not set policy.
The convention is in town through Wednesday.