UNL Releases Final 2026 Crop Water Use Irrigation Report

By Scout Nelson

The 2026 crop water use reporting season has concluded, providing growers in the Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado with final irrigation estimates for Sept. 2-8. The report helps producers make informed irrigation decisions as crops approach maturity and harvest.

The estimates were developed by Gary Stone and Xin Qiao at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension Center. Their research supports producers in understanding crop water requirements and improving irrigation efficiency.

Crop water demand varies depending on factors such as evapotranspiration, crop growth stage, temperature, soil conditions, wind and rainfall. Because of these differences, growers benefit from region-specific information when planning irrigation schedules.

The weekly estimates help producers determine water needs more accurately. Using this data can improve irrigation timing, reduce unnecessary applications and increase overall water-use efficiency.

Late-season irrigation management is especially important as crops near maturity. Proper water application can support crop performance while avoiding wasted resources.

The report provides crop water use estimates for both Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado production areas. These figures help growers compare water requirements across different crops and locations.

Additional resources are available to support irrigation management, including crop growth stage charts, growing degree day information and evapotranspiration monitoring tools. Programs such as PHREEC Irrigation and Digital AgLab also provide valuable decision-making support.

Growing degree day and evapotranspiration data help producers track crop development and estimate changing water needs throughout the season. Combined with crop water use estimates, these tools allow for more precise irrigation planning.

The final report highlights the value of data-driven irrigation management in modern agriculture. By using these resources, producers can improve water efficiency, support crop productivity and strengthen long-term sustainability.

Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic