The Irrigation Association (IA) is the leading organization of irrigation professionals, serving as the recognized authority in efficient irrigation: promoting innovation, supporting industry growth and sustainability, engaging decision-makers, and serving as the leading, credible, and unifying voice and advocate for the industry.



IA members meet with Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona.

IA Takes Irrigation's Message to Washington, D.C.
Over 20 irrigation industry leaders headed to Congress March 20-21 to advocate for the entire industry during the 2024 IA Fly-In. The group met with key decision-makers on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies to advance priorities including the farm bill, labor and guest worker program issues, water conservation incentives, and workforce development. These face-to-face conversations were crucial to the IA's and the industry's advocacy efforts, allowing the IA to focus on the value of irrigation as well as the critical policies affecting the irrigation, landscape, and agriculture sectors.




Irrigation Show heads to Long Beach

 
The 2024 Irrigation Show and Education Week took place Nov. 4-7 in Long Beach, California. The exhibit hall, open Nov. 6-7, featured nearly 200 exhibitors, as well as the popular New Product Contest showcase and Innovation Row area featuring irrigation startup companies. The IA also provided education opportunities through IA University courses, classroom-style deep-dive sessions, and high-level lightning sessions presented live on the exhibit floor in the Innovation Hub.

Smart Irrigation Month
Efficient irrigation took center stage as the IA celebrated Smart Irrigation Month in July. The 2024 theme - We are smart irrigation - spotlighted the industry's dedication to advancing wise water use through cutting-edge practices and technologies. Throughout July, the IA showcased the vital role of irrigation professionals in promoting efficient water management. This annual event raises awareness about everything that makes up smart irrigation, including the people, practices, and technologies that efficiently apply water to our agricultural fields, landscapes, and turfgrass.

IA award winners announced
In August, the IA announced the recipients of its annual awards. Congratulations to these 2024 award winners who have made significant contributions to the irrigation industry:



Industry Achievement Award: Carmelo Giuffrè, Irritec



Excellence in Education Awards: Dave Goorahoo, PhD, California State University, Fresno

Vanguard Award: Goldcrest Farms project | Valley Irrigation





New IA leadership for 2024
At the close of the 2024 Irrigation Show, Julie Bushell will assume the role of IA president for 2024 and Michael Roberts, PhD, will serve as president-elect.



IA Names Tiffany Erickson Brand, Engagement, and Growth Vice President
Tiffany Erickson will lead the IA's efforts to enhance brand presence, member engagement, and overall business growth. She will direct the IA's business development strategies, focusing on increasing membership, growing revenue, and elevating the organization's brand across all touchpoints. Erickson brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic brand engagement, integrated strategy development, and a proven track record of driving revenue diversification and growth.