Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Alberta is known as the capital of irrigation in Canada with 500,000 Ha irrigated on more than 2,100 farms in the province. More than 95% of Alberta's irrigation water comes from off-farm sources. In October 2020, the Government of Alberta announced a $815M investment to undertake the largest irrigation expansion in the province's history. Innovative, simple, and effective solutions are needed for timely adoption of precision irrigation by a large number or farmers in order to support this goal.
Integrating technology into irrigation decision making is crucial due to tremendously variable rainfall. The goal of this research is to develop and implement precision irrigation solutions that align with and support the GOA's investment in increased irrigated areas in the province.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
Improved irrigation efficiency through data-driven irrigation management will results in direct economic and environmental impacts such as lower electricity and watering costs, and an increase in quality production as irrigation is batter suited to crop water needs.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Knowledge gained from this project will be shared through Farming Smarter. LiteFarm will be sharing technical guidance documents in over 50 countries across the world. Results will also be shared in publications, across social media, and during conferences.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.