Farmer-ready irrigation decision tool for optimized corn water use
A farmer-ready irrigation tool using a SlideRuler and web portal to optimize water use in corn farming, improving yields while conserving water. The solution adapts to local conditions and does not require sensors, supporting sustainable agriculture.
Overview
This innovative irrigation decision tool aims to optimize water use in corn farming by combining a no-connectivity analog SlideRuler with a web-based information portal. The tool helps farmers convert fixed seasonal water allocations into precise irrigation schedules that enhance corn yields while conserving water resources. By adapting to local evapotranspiration rates, soil water capacity, and hybrid maturity, the system ensures efficient water use without requiring sensors, making it accessible and easy to integrate into existing workflows.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Analog SlideRuler: A user-friendly, printable tool for field use, providing immediate solutions without the need for connectivity.
- Web-based portal: Automatically localizes data to county-level conditions, offering tailored weekly irrigation set-points and deficit irrigation trajectories.
- Integration of variables: Utilizes local evapotranspiration, available soil water, and hybrid maturity data.
- Optional sensor integration: Can incorporate in-season sensing for additional data but functions effectively without it.
- Deployment kit: Includes laminated rulers, PDF downloads, and training materials for easy adoption.
Technology readiness level
This solution is at Technology Readiness Level 8, indicating it has been tested in real-world conditions and is ready for commercial deployment. Validation includes retrospective analysis using historical data and field testing under actual water allocation constraints in Texas.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
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