When every drop counts: Innovative irrigation solutions

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore modern irrigation tools and techniques that can help protect farmers, families and the future in the face of water shortages. 

In the United States, we have begun to see deepening patterns of both water scarcity and excess to the point of threatening and damaging both lives and livelihoods. This is most extremely felt by those in horticulture and agriculture industries as intensifying climate extremes drive “mounting water-related agricultural costs, particularly in midwestern and western states.” In fact, the National Integrated Drought Information System reported that 2023 saw over 55% of the western U.S. in moderate to severe drought conditions, with some areas in an exceptional drought (the highest level of drought intensity).  

And this water scarcity is not only damaging our industries and the livelihoods of those directly involved, but it is radiating throughout communities. The CDC reported, “Many people are forced to rely on bottled water at an estimated personal cost of $1,350 every year. According to recent analysis, water insecurity also costs the U.S. economy approximately $8.58 billion annually in lost labor and productivity, reduced household earnings and higher healthcare costs.” 

So, what can be done to mitigate and manage these growing water challenges? 

A report from the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) titled, “Scarcity and Excess: Tackling Water-Related Risks to Agriculture in the United States,” provides a variety of pathways forward. At the heart of many of the proposed solutions – better irrigation management and infrastructure. Soler Solutions outlines four different irrigation solutions that can maximize water use, minimize waste and help build more sustainable water practices.  

1. Drip irrigation: By directing water straight to a plant’s root system rather than spraying water over a wide area, drip irrigation can cut water use by as much as 60%! 
2. Soil moisture sensors: These innovative technological solutions help manage water resources by making sure that plants are only getting water when they need it. The sensors monitor the water actively in the soil and, when incorporated with irrigation systems, automatically adjust the watering patterns as needed. Not only does this avoid over-irrigation, but it can also ensure crops are not underwatered, which can damage their yield. 
3. Solar-powered water pumps: When looking at building more sustainable practices, it's important to think about the whole system being used. Solar-powered water pumps might not improve water efficiency, but they do make your irrigation system more energy efficient. These pumps, as opposed to their diesel/electric counterparts, are a great way to reduce operational costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions and provide a layer of resilience for those in areas with instable energy grids.  
4. Rainwater harvesting: Collecting excess water from precipitation during rainy times is a great proactive method to manage dry stretches more efficiently and sustainably. 

Overall, the U.S. is facing a water crisis that threatens our industries, food security and natural environment. The good news is that there are innovative solutions that are working to manage and mitigate this crisis. From solar-powered water pumps to drip irrigation, there are a variety of pathways to creating more efficient irrigation solutions that ensure “the sustainability of agriculture and horticulture for future generations.” 

Photo credits in order of appearance: Soler Solutions (cover), EDF