The Sensor Gap: Why 89% of U.S. Agriculture is Missing Out on Precision Irrigation

I was struck by a startling statistic shared at a recent conference in Texas by a professor from Oklahoma State University: only 11% of U.S. agriculture utilizes soil or plant sensors. This revelation underscores a significant gap in the adoption of precision agriculture technologies, particularly when it comes to irrigation management.

Even fewer farmers employ effective methods for scheduling irrigation, leaving vast potential for water conservation and improved crop yields untapped.

In fact, a survey of growers in Washington State reveals the reliance on less precise irrigation methods. For example, methods like visual inspection and relying on experience are still prevalent, highlighting the need for more data-driven approaches. (Fig. 1).

Methods used by growers in Washington State to determine ‘when to irrigate’ (graph based on a survey)

Why such low adoption rates? Several factors contribute to this challenge. One major issue is the reliance on unreliable information sources. Many farmers turn to platforms like YouTube, where guidance from non-experts can lead to confusion and ineffective practices.

Furthermore, the market is saturated with sensors of varying quality, making it difficult to discern reliable options.

While soil moisture sensors are not the sole solution for irrigation scheduling, they are crucial for establishing accurate irrigation thresholds, regardless of the method employed. Without reliable data, farmers struggle to optimize water usage.

At Washington State University, researchers conducted a study to compare seven different irrigation scheduling algorithms based on soil, plant, and weather data.

This study, conducted in an apple orchard, utilized Watermark and Decagon 10HS sensors, as well as a neutron probe, to monitor soil water status.

The findings were revealing: only the neutron probe provided consistently acceptable readings. This highlights the critical need for robust and accurate sensor technology in agricultural applications.

The study emphasizes the importance of investing in high-quality sensors that provide accurate and consistent data.

Farmers also require access to reliable educational resources and expert guidance to effectively implement precision irrigation strategies.

Integrating sensor data with advanced irrigation scheduling algorithms can significantly improve water use efficiency and crop health.

Bridging the sensor gap is essential for the future of sustainable agriculture. By investing in research, education, and reliable technology, we can empower farmers to make informed decisions and optimize their irrigation practices.

For a deeper dive into the Washington State University study and its findings, please refer to the paper: "Comparison of irrigation automation algorithms for drip-irrigated apple trees".

What are your experiences with agricultural sensors? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below!