IrrigMSU

Functionality & Mechanism

This mobile irrigation scheduling tool, developed by Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, facilitates efficient water management for agricultural producers. The application integrates real-time data from MSU Enviroweather stations with user-inputted soil type and crop-specific information. It utilizes a checkbook-style water balance model, calculating daily moisture levels based on rainfall and evapotranspiration. Users receive irrigation recommendations and notifications when soil moisture falls below a predetermined threshold, supporting timely water application to meet crop needs.

Development & Context

• This tool was developed by Michigan State University Extension and Purdue University Extension to help farmers optimize water use and crop yields.
• It is a mobile adaptation of an earlier Excel-based scheduler, created to offer greater convenience and daily usability for irrigators.
• The news coverage highlights its availability in both English and Spanish on Android and Apple app stores, broadening its accessibility.
• In Michigan, using such irrigation scheduling tools is a required component of Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices.

Intended Use & Scope

IrrigMSU is designed for farmers and agricultural irrigators as a decision-support tool for water management. It provides scheduling recommendations based on weather station data, crop type, and soil information. The tool is intended to be used alongside other practices, such as soil moisture sensing, to inform irrigation decisions. Information is from news coverage, not peer-reviewed research.