Researchers at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station daily collect climate data at sites at Lubbock Halfway and Lamesa.
Heat units estimate the amount of heat energy that is available to fuel plant growth.
Irrigators can use the reports along with conversion tables for specific crops to determine the amount of water their crops should use. The conversion tables are available at extension offices. The information is then provided to local newspapers and broadcasting stations. Rose Mary Seymour, an irrigation specialist with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service in Lubbock, says the network will aid farmers. Farmers using efficient irrigation techniques can apply less water and still produce high yields.