Precision Irrigation Projects

This project outlines a multidisciplinary collaborative research initiative aimed at advancing AI-driven precision water management through ground penetrating radar on pivot system and computer-controlled precision irrigation systems in Kansas agriculture. The project addresses the urgent need to mitigate water scarcity and aquifer depletion in the Great Plains region, particularly focusing on the Ogallala Aquifer. By conducting on-farm trial at the Flickner Innovation Farm in Central Kansas, we aim to evaluate the performance of novel precision irrigation technologies, radar-based Autonomous Pivot and computer-controlled Rain 360, in comparison with existing methods such as Precision Mobile Drip Irrigation (PMDI) and Sub-surface Drip Irrigation (SSDI). The research objectives include spatiotemporal evaluation of water and energy use metrics using process-based model, conducting cost-benefit analysis, and establishing a consortium for technology transfer and knowledge sharing.