As we approach the start of the upcoming season, it's a perfect time to revisit irrigation efficiency strategies, a critical component for both conventional and organic cropping systems across Arizona.

Extension professionals in Central Arizona requested a resource to help growers better understand how to manage irrigation more effectively. In response, we developed a short video explaining key strategies for efficient water use, including how to integrate weather station tools into your decision-making process.

This video provides simple, practical guidance on:

• Selecting the nearest meteorological station to your farm
• Using real-time weather data to inform when and how much to irrigate
• Incorporating agronomic practices to maximize water conservation and crop performance

Arizona is fortunate to have a robust network of weather stations called Arizona Meteorological Network (https://azmet.arizona.edu/). I highly encourage you to identify the one closest to your location and start leveraging it as part of your irrigation planning and scheduling. These data-driven strategies can help you make more informed, sustainable, and profitable decisions in the field. If you have any questions or need help getting started, please feel free to reach out.

Wishing you a productive and water-wise season for your organic/conventional cropping systems ahead!

Watch the Video: Irrigation Efficiency for Farms (YouTube)