UNL Leads with Irrigation Training

By Scout Nelson

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is set to revolutionize irrigation practices with its newly introduced Master Irrigator program. This initiative will provide Nebraska growers a platform to access and influence the latest developments in agricultural technologies and conservation practices.

Scheduled to begin in February, the program kicks off with a series of design summits. These summits will introduce growers to the initiative and invite them to help shape its future direction, ensuring it aligns with their needs.

UNL, in collaboration with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts, aims to equip local farmers with insights into innovative industry practices. Each session will highlight tools and strategies from UNL’s Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) program and discuss their application in modern farming.

Nebraska, a leader in irrigated crop production, boasts more irrigated acres than any other state. The Master Irrigator program is designed to further this legacy by addressing the specific needs of the state’s top irrigators. Program topics will range from leveraging new technologies and conservation practices to navigating the complexities of modern farming.

According to Derek McLean, dean and director of UNL’s Agricultural Research Division, the program responds to the strong demand among local producers for enhanced knowledge and networking opportunities in water management and irrigation technology.

The Master Irrigator program also aligns with Governor Jim Pillen’s initiative to expand the state's bioeconomy, promoting efficient use of natural resources while maintaining leadership in key agricultural sectors.

With sessions planned across multiple locations in Nebraska, the program is set to make a significant impact. Interested individuals can find more details and register for the program through the UNL Water website. This initiative not only aims to advance Nebraska’s irrigation techniques but also positions the state as a global leader in water and irrigation management, ensuring long-term sustainability and profitability for its agricultural sector.

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