Utilization of Soil Moisture Sensors for Maximizing the Benefit of Irrigation Applications in Cotton Production

   Due to an increase in concerns of the consumption of state waters by agriculture for irrigation of row crops, a team of UGA Extension personnel came together, through coordination of the Jenkins County Extension, to work with farmers on irrigation water management within Jenkins and surrounding counties.  Jenkins County Extension Coordinator (CEC) surveyed local cotton farmer's irrigation scheduling methods.  Survey results determined 9% of surveyed farmers utilized soil moisture sensors on their farm in 2016.  Of the 5795 acres represented in the survey only 1.2% of the acres were being monitored by moisture sensing devices.  The CEC organized an educational meeting to provide an opportunity for local producers to learn more about soil moisture sensors.  During this meeting, the UGA Irrigation Specialist, with the assistance of the GSWCC Regional Representative and the Jenkins CEC, presented information on types of sensors and loggers.  Presentations also discussed how important proper installation is in having a successful monitoring program.  The CEC also provided information on opportunities for cotton producers to gain access to soil moisture sensors available through local resources for farmers.   By providing this training and connecting the needs of farmers to resources available, the extension team assisted with the installation and/or questions of operating procedures for ten farming operations in the Jenkins and surrounding counties.  The total area being managed and/or influenced by these sensors was over 1,450 acres of irrigated cotton in Jenkins County because of the efforts carried out by the team.  Of the acres previously surveyed, the percentage of acres being managed by soil moisture sensors increased from 1.2% to 24%.  From these efforts, farmers are applying water when sensors suggest and applying before crops enter stress, therefore, our state's water resources are being conserved and cotton farmers are moving toward better yields.