Scientists Develop Irrigation Spreadsheet

Given droughts that just don't seem to go away, researchers at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln have developed the Water Optimizer to calculate how much a crop will yield given certain conditions, such as temperature, soil type and irrigation levels. The goal of the spreadsheet, is to decide how best to use water allotments. Irrigation options include center pivot or gravity systems, well or canal delivery and systems powered by electricity, diesel or natural gas.

It is possible to input whatever local variables are being dealt with, which also include size of area to be planted, how water would be delivered and production costs. Information such as average rainfall is automatically added to the calculations. Then the most profitable combination of variables and alternatives can be chosen to optimize available water during drought conditions. Already in use in 24 of Nebraska's 93 counties, the results have been good so far, and there are plans to expand the Water Optimizer for use within all of Nebraska's counties. The program is free, although a tutorial CD and DVD can be purchased. For more information, visit https://real.unl.edu/h20/