[Gene Eric]

Given our agricultural propensity, I foresee a way out of our debt.

BTW, thanks for the illustrative post!

[Former Proud Canadian]

In the 21st century people forget what is really needed for survival. Without water and food human beings die. It's that simple. Energy allows you to produced more food, move it to cities, and process it. It also allows you to move and purify water.

Countries with poor water resources cannot sustain large populations. China comes to mind.

Fun fact, 20% of the world's fresh water resides in the Great Lakes.

[Ozark Tom]

The problem for us may become a shorter growing season; to wet/ waiting for thaw before planting and early rains/ freezing conditions at harvest. There are alternative varieties for a shorter growing season, but the yields are much lower.