Water Irrigation Efficiency Program

Abstract

Agriculture in the American Southwest provides the nation with high quality food, feed, and fiber. Blessed with hot summers, mild winters, and dry climates Arizona has become a center for growing specialty crops of unparalleled quality. In our current climate, one of the most limiting factors to crop production in Arizona is water availability, driving the desire for more conservative use on the farm. State funding has been allocated to assist commercial growers transitioning to more efficient wateruse practices. Reimbursement grants will be awarded up to $1,500 per acre to support infrastructure costs of farms transitioning away from flood irrigation to more efficient technologies, expected to provide a 20% or greater water savings. The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension group is tasked with administering the reimbursement grants and will assist growers with understanding available options and development of best use practices.