The Earth is losing some of its major freshwater supplies. But these water resources are not lakes or rivers. They are called “aquifers.” They formed deep underground as the Earth developed. Some aquifers are so deep that water from very heavy rains cannot reach them through all the rock and dirt. Many aquifers provide irrigation water for crops. These freshwater deposits are helping farmers in many countries. A new report says some aquifers are being emptied. It warns this could affect food security and economies around the world. Irrigated agriculture is responsible for about 80 percent or more of freshwater use worldwide. A growing part of that comes from underground aquifers because of dry weather or farmers growing crops in areas with little rainfall. But researchers say taking water from aquifers is creating a large problem, which is not getting much attention. And even if it does receive attention, scientists warn, there is not much that can be done to repair them.