ABSTRACT

Variable rate irrigation has the potential to increase crop yield and quality while saving water. During the past three years we have field tested variable rate pivot irrigation systems on four commercial farms and on two experiment station sites. This system delivers water to each area within a field as needed, rather than a blanket rate or rates defined in wedges. Initial studies indicate that water use efficiency gains of 7% to over 20% are reasonable to expect from this system. Yields and management efficiencies have increased as a result of better water placement. System parts run approximately $5,000 for a 100 acre pivot.