By Karlie Gerlach
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is set to launch a new Master Irrigator program, providing Nebraska growers with a platform to connect with the latest agricultural innovations and conservation practices.
The program will begin in February with design summits offering an introduction to the initiative and allowing Nebraska growers to shape its future direction.
The goal of the Nebraska Master Irrigator program is to provide farmers with locally relevant insights into innovations from industry, policy, and research. Each session will highlight resources from UNL’s Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) program, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts, and other industry leaders. These highlights will be followed by discussions among growers to refine program development, said Crystal Powers, UNL Extension educator and program coordinator.
“We want growers to drive the creation of Nebraska Master Irrigator so it meets their needs,” Powers said.
Nebraska is the epicenter of modern irrigated crop production, with deep roots in the practice’s history and development. Today, Nebraska has more irrigated cropland acres than any other state. UNL has long been a leader in research, teaching, and extension programs focused on irrigation cropping systems. Combined with USDA NRCS and Nebraska Natural Resources Districts programs, Nebraska growers are already some of the most skilled in the world.
The goal of the program is to meet the needs of the state’s top irrigators, said Derek McLean, dean and director of UNL’s Agricultural Research Division. Nebraska’s Master Irrigator program will cater to those seeking to elevate their fields to the next level. Topics will include leveraging new technologies, implementing conservation and regenerative practices, navigating current events, and managing the complexities of modern farming.
“Nebraska producers are extremely knowledgeable about irrigation and nutrient management,” McLean said. “What we’re hearing is a desire for more opportunities to interact with peers and industry leaders on the latest advances in water management and irrigation technology. In a state like Nebraska, the futures of irrigation management and precision agriculture are inextricably linked, and we have a role to play in shaping what that looks like.”
The need for a high-level program like Master Irrigator was underscored by farmers across the state. The program will also highlight the work of Nebraska’s most innovative producers.
“We are armed with so much intelligence, science, and research that building a trust model is what comes next, and I think that’s where Master Irrigator will reside,” said Roric Paulman, a grower from western Nebraska.
The program will align with UNL’s TAPS program, based at the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center in North Platte. TAPS allows farmers to experiment with new technologies and crop-growing approaches in a fun, risk-free environment.
Nebraska Master Irrigator will also support Gov. Jim Pillen’s initiative to expand the state’s bioeconomy, encouraging producers to be efficient stewards of natural resources while maintaining Nebraska’s leadership in livestock, crops, and biofuels production.
“The goal is to prepare producers for success in all areas of their operations,” Powers said. “From precision agriculture tools to regenerative management practices, all with an eye on return on investment. Long-term, Master Irrigator aims to position Nebraska as a global leader in water and irrigation management while fostering the state’s agricultural and natural resource future.”
Meetings, which are open to the public, are scheduled as follows:
- Feb. 26: Gage County Extension, 1115 W. Scott, Beatrice
- Feb. 27: West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Rd., North Platte
- March 4: Holt County Extension, 128 N. Sixth, O'Neill
- March 6: Panhandle Research and Extension Center, 4502 Ave. I, Scottsbluff
For more information or to register, visit UNL Water.
Source : unl.edu