Nitrogen and tillage management for corn following alfalfa

Rotating alfalfa with corn can increase corn yield potential through improved soil physical properties that enhance water infiltration and root extension, a reduction in disease and pest pressure (i.e., corn rootworm), and an enhanced soil microbial community

Accurate Irrigation Water Flow Measurement in Pipes

Flow measurement is an important component of water management. There are many methods that can be used to measure water flow, and different methods and technologies are used for pipe flow as compared to open channel (canal) flow. In this fact sheet, we cover only pipe flow, and for that, only technologies that are most common in conventional irrigation practice. We also address some basic principles of flow measurement along with some pros and cons for different measurement technologies

Utilizing Growing Degree Days for Corn Production

This fact sheet explains the concepts and formulas in determining growing degree days

Agricultural Irrigated Land and Irrigation Water Use in Utah

Utah is considered the second driest state in the United States. As a result, much of the agriculture and horticulture in Utah depends upon irrigation. Irrigation is an important feature of agriculture in Utah. The distribution of irrigated and water use varies across the state, based on water availability, topography, and soils. In recent years, sprinkler irrigation has overtaken surface methods as the dominant irrigation method, based on irrigated area, in Utah. About 75% to 80% of water withdrawals in Utah are for irrigation, with about 68% of that water being consumptive use. Alfalfa, other hay crops, and pasture are grown on about 80% of irrigated agricultural lands in Utah

4R\u27s of Irrigation Management

This fact sheet introduces the concept of the 4\u27R\u27s of irrigation management and discusses some factors to consider in each of the 4R\u27s, right source, right rate. right time, and right place

Understanding Irrigation Water Optimization

Irrigation is applied to much of the cropped area of Utah to support crop production. Limited water resources and competing demand for those resources make irrigation water conservation, irrigation water optimization, and efficient use of irrigation water important components of overall water resource management. It is well known in Utah that optimal irrigation use is even more critical during drought conditions. However, optimization practices change the quantity, quality, and timing of water flows. It is important to consider the possible hydrologic impact of irrigation practice changes and the desired outcome of an optimization practice to avoid implementing a practice that has little appreciable effect relative to the desired outcome

Manure and Wastewater Sampling Guide

Manure and wastewater are resources that can reduce your fertilizer needs and help improve soil and your bottom line. It is important that manure and wastewater be sampled and tested so one can apply the manure and nutrients appropriately. Sampling and analysis should occur as close to land application as possible as nutrient concentration in manure and wastewater can change over time due to runoff, leaching, and changes in moisture percentage. Nitrogen can also be lost due to volatilization. There are two primary approaches for when to sample: (1) just before land application, and (2) at the time of land application. Guidelines for how to sample solid manure, liquid manure, and slurries are provided in this document

Irrigation Water Loss and Recovery in Utah

When deciding which irrigation systems to adopt, permit, or promote, it is important to consider how their efficiency and losses affect the water balance of Utah’s watersheds and drainage basins. Irrigators have no control over precipitation and only limited control of surface waters entering and leaving the state, as most of those are controlled by legal agreements. However, Utah’s water managers, elected officials, and water users can consider how surface water flows and groundwater storage is affected by using more efficient irrigation systems. Sprinkler, surface, or drip irrigation systems each have trade-offs in irrigation application efficiency, cost, and other factors. To make comparisons between systems, this fact sheet will define irrigation application efficiency, describe the destinations of irrigation water losses, and discuss how the fraction of recoverable water losses differ for various irrigation delivery systems and what that means for the overall water balance in Utah

Easy Calibration for Boom Sprayers

Calibrating spray equipment is an important first step when applying pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals. If nozzles are not properly calibrated, it can result in over or under application of chemicals, causing crop damage, reduced pest control, and potential safety concerns. Making the effort to properly mix chemicals and calibrate sprayers can save money and headaches in the long run. This fact sheet provides simple guidelines for calibrating boom sprayers

Easy Calibration for Backpack and Canister (Handheld) Sprayers

When applying pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals, the applicator should know the amount of chemical applied to the treated area. Calibration is a method an applicator can use to measure and set the application rate. If sprayers are not properly calibrated, it can result in over or under application of chemicals, causing damage, reduced pest control, and potential safety concerns. Making the effort to properly mix chemicals and calibrate sprayers can save money and increase treatment effectiveness. This fact sheet provides simple guidelines for calibrating backpack and canister sprayers