Tech Helps Water Usage and El Nino Possibilities
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**A recently launched online computer program not only helps producers determine whether irrigation systems are applying water uniformly but can also estimate the cost of wasted energy, water and fertilizer.
Dubbed the Distribution Uniformity and Return-on-Investment Estimator, the free program identifies areas of an irrigation system needing maintenance, repairs or upgrades to improve distribution.
It also gives an estimated return on investment based on water, energy and fertilizer savings and potential yield improvements.
**Forecasters are reminding farmers and ranchers that no two El Niño weather patterns are exactly alike, but the climate phenomenon often brings important impacts for agriculture.
El Niño typically reaches its peak strength during the winter months and can alter weather patterns across much of the country.
For agriculture, the biggest concern is its influence on precipitation patterns, soil moisture, and crop-growing conditions heading into the next production season.
**Nominations are being accepted for farmers and ranchers to serve on local USDA Farm Service Agency county committees.
These committees make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally.
FSA Administrator Bill Beam says local voices matter, and ag producers play an important role in shaping how federal farm programs serve their communities.
Nomination for the 2026 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by Aug. 3rd.
