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Space eyes track Arizona crop water use
31 May
Summary
- OpenET uses satellite data to monitor crop water consumption.
- Tool helps farmers compare applied water versus crop usage.
- It needs upgrades for daily irrigation and flood irrigation.
Researchers in Arizona are exploring OpenET, a free online tool that utilizes satellite data to monitor crop water consumption at the field level. This technology helps farmers compare their applied water amounts against actual crop usage, offering a potential avenue for significant water savings. The tool is already in use by various entities in the Western U.S. for water tracking and compliance.
Recent trials in Arizona compared OpenET's estimates with on-site data for alfalfa and cotton crops. While showing promise, the research indicated that the tool is more suited for retrospective analysis and planning rather than immediate daily irrigation management. Its effectiveness is particularly limited for farms employing flood irrigation methods, a common practice in Arizona.
