Irrigation Scheduling Research using Variable-Rate Pivot and Switched-Sprinkler Linear Systems

摘要

Irrigation scheduling is critical to optimizing water application for maximum crop yield while conserving water. The University of Georgia is conducting research into several methods for improving the scheduling of irrigation of cotton, peanut, and corn. The methods include: expert system software (IrrigatorPro); simplified evaporation pan (UGA EASYPan); soil moisture sensor triggers; growth stage; remote sensing data (NDVI); checkbook; fixed schedule. However, a ongoing challenge with field irrigation research has been designing studies that create irrigation conditions that are found in growers fields while allowing statistically valid replicates for comparisons among irrigation treatments.