Context: Evapotranspiration demand that exceeds soil water supplies will result in yield reductions at any time during the crop life cycle. When plant water uptake by the roots is limited so is nutrient availability, uptake, and transport. Additionally, water stressed plants are more susceptible to insect and disease pathogens and have diminished stem integrity.

Question: What are some concerns about water-stressed plants?

Answer: more susceptible to insect and disease pathogens and have diminished stem integrity

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Question: How do the drippers work? Excerpt: Drippers are the heart of any drip irrigation system, the conventional 'sprinkler head' if you will. DIG drippers help to deliver the precise amount of water required to the plant's root zone. They are inexpensive, easy to install, reliable and accurate. They may be inserted directly into 1/2 in. poly tubing or extended to the plant with 1/4 in. microtubing. DIG drippers incorporate three different characteristics: pressure compensating, adjustable flow and turbulent flow drippers.Pressure Compensating Drippers'are self-cleaning and utilize a silicone diaphragm, which moves up and down as pressure fluctuates to control the flow. The drippers are designed for long life under the harshest conditions. Ideal use for a PC dripper is in any design when attention to the number of drippers and the total flow capacity of the drip tubing are not followed.Turbulent flow, or button drippers'allow water to move rapidly in irregular random motions. Turbulent flow drippers regulate water flow by dissipating energy in friction against the walls of the water passage. Button drippers are available in flow rates of .5, 1 and 2 GPH at 25 PSI and have extra large water passages to prevent clogging.Adjustable drippers'allow the installer to change the flow for each individual plant. Twisting the dial on the dripper counter clockwise to increase or clockwise to decrease to adjust the flow between 1 GPH and 11 GPH.

Question: What is unique about adjustable drippers?

Answer: allow the installer to change the flow for each individual plant

DIG Corp. (2024). Drip Irrigation FAQ’s. https://www.digcorp.com/drip-irrigation-faqs/


Context: Table 1. Example corn yield loss estimates when stress occurs for four or more consecutive days. Adapted from Classen and Shaw, 1970; Rhoads and Bennet, 1990; and Shaw, 1988.  The Corn Development stage known as early vegetative (VE - V12) has an estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 1-3. The Corn Development stage known as Late vegetative (V12 to VT) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 2-5. The Corn Development stage known as Pollination to Blister (R2) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-9. The Corn Development stage known as Milk (R3) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-6. The Corn Development stage known as Dough (R4) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-5. The Corn Development stage known as Dent (R5) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 2-4. The Corn Development stage known as Maturity (R6) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 0.

Question: What is the estimated yield loss per day of stress for corn in the maturity development stage?

Answer: 0

Iowa State University. (2023). How Drought Affects Corn & Soybean Growth & Yield. https://www.no-tillfarmer.com/articles/12564-how-drought-affects-corn-and-soybean-growth-and-yield


Context: The water needs of corn peak in July and taper off in August as we near dent stage. Irrigated corn has its highest water use and realizes its greatest potential benefit from irrigation during the week of tasseling and the following three weeks then taper off as the crop enters dent stage.

Question: When is the best time to irrigate corn?

Answer: The water needs of corn peak in July and taper off in August

Kelley, L. (2020b). July/August corn water needs - Corn. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/july-august-corn-water-needs


Context: Question: What are the important parameters I should look at in an irrigation water quality report? Excerpt: Most irrigation water analysis reports will provide a list of cations (calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium) and anions (bicarbonate, carbonate, sulfate and chloride) along with pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC) and the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR). The cations, anions and TDS will be listed as milligrams per liter (mg/l) or the equivalent, parts per million (ppm). The two most important factors are TDS or EC and SAR. The TDS of a water sample is a measure of the concentration of soluble salts in the water, which include all the cations and anions. TDS is estimated from the EC of the water. The more dissolved minerals in the water, the higher the EC. The units of EC can be listed as millimhos per centimeter (mmhos/cm), micromhos per centimeter (umhos/cm) or deciSiemens per meter (dS/m). One millimho per centimeter is equal to 1000 micromhos per centimeter or 1 dS/m. TDS can be estimated by multiplying the EC (in umhos/cm) by 0.64. For example, the TDS of a water sample with an EC of 2000 umhos/cm (2.0 dS/m) would be about 1280 mg/l. The SAR of a water sample is the proportion of sodium to calcium and magnesium in the water. Since it is a ratio, SAR has no units. For most soils in North Dakota, any water with an EC greater than 2000 micromhos per centimeter (2 mmhos/cm or 2 dS/m) or an SAR value greater than 6 is not generally recommended for continuous irrigation. However, soils with a high sand content can use water with an SAR up to 9.

Question: What will the units of the cations, anions, and TDS be listed as?

Answer: milligrams per liter (mg/l) or the equivalent, parts per million (ppm)

Fipps, G. (2021). Irrigation Water Quality Standards And Salinity Management Strategies. https://irrigation.tamu.edu/files/2021/04/EB-1667.pdf


Context: Vegetable crop water requirements range from about 6" of water per season for radishes to 24" for tomatoes and watermelons. Precise irrigation requirements can be predicted based on crop water use and effective precipitation values. Lack of water influences crop growth in many ways. Its effect depends on the severity, duration, and time of stress in relation to the stage of growth. Nearly all vegetable crops are sensitive to drought during two periods: during harvest and two to three weeks before harvest. More than 30 different vegetable crops are grown commercially. Although all vegetables benefit from irrigation, each class responds differently: leafy vegetables, broccoli and cauliflower, fruiting vegetbales

Question: What are disadvantages of growing vegetables?

Answer: Nearly all vegetable crops are sensitive to drought during two periods: during harvest and two to three weeks before harvest.

UMass Extension Vegetable Program. (2013). Vegetable: Irrigating Vegetable Crops | Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment at UMass Amherst. https://ag.umass.edu/vegetable/fact-sheets/irrigating-vegetable-crops


Context: Question: What is lift irrigation system? Excerpt: Unlike the normal irrigation systems where water flow is natural (gravity flow); here water is transported or lifted through pumps or surge pools. This system works as two parts: the one where the water is carried from the source through pumps to the delivery chamber and second water is distributed from the chamber to the fields. It requires 3 things or components such as water source, lifting medium (pump) and conveying medium (pipes).

Question: What are the components that a lift irrigation system requires?

Answer: conveying medium (pipes)

AgriFarming. (2023). Frequently Asked Questions about Irrigation (FAQs) | Agri Farming. https://www.agrifarming.in/frequently-asked-questions-about-irrigation-faqs


Context: Option to purchase the farm in future: (b) "Equal opportunity to buy" is the lease agreement statement that assures the lessee that they have the option to be involved in the future sale offering of the property being leased.

Question: What does the "equal opportunity to buy" option assure the lessee of?

Answer: be involved in the future sale offering of the property

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: Irrigation systems need to be able to replace the typical water use of the plant during a prolonged dry period. System costs increase as capacity increases. Typically water sources capable of 400 to 1200 gallons per minute are used to supply irrigation water. Systems designed to apply 0.25 inch per day (5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation) can provide adequate water in all but the most extreme situations. Evapotransporation rate (E.T.) is a term that represents the daily water lost by the plants maintenance and growth along with the evaporative loss from the soil surface. E.T. rates for almost all crops grown in northern Indiana and Michigan have rates under 0.25 inch per day for all but a few extreme days.

Question: What is the role of water sources that are capable of 400 to 1200 gallons per minute when it comes to irrigation?

Answer: supply irrigation water

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: (3) Service pump engines and inspect all fluid levels: Pumps run for hours without operator presence, and even small oil or coolant leaks can result in damage. Inspect belts, batteries and recharge system. Look carefully for rodent damage and insect nests that may result in malfunction later. Inspect pump murphy switches or safety shut-down systems or install them if you do not have them. Adding low oil and high temperature shut downs can avoid burning up your engine.

Question: What can cause damage to pumps?

Answer: even small oil or coolant leaks can result in damage

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: (2) Turn on power supply, using proper safety protocol: If you generate your own power, start the engine and bring it up to proper RPMs for the generator. Check voltage at teach pump and pivot in the system. Inspect the grounding wire from terminal to rods. Some irrigated crop contracts have requirements for testing of the grounding system and maximum resistance. Make a list of needed repairs for your electrician to follow-up on and get him started before the traditional over committed first days of irrigation season.

Question: What are the steps for turning on power supply?

Answer: start the engine and bring it up to proper RPMs for the generator.

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: Question: What about different soil types? Excerpt: The soil is a storage room of the plants nutrients, and the medium, through which water and nutrients move. It is the anchor for plants and the reservoir of water for plants' growth. There are various types of soil with differing characteristics, which determine What types of plants can be grown. Nevertheless, plants can thrive in a very broad spectrum of soil textures when water is applied at the proper rate, with appropriate spacing.Each type of soil creates a typical wetting pattern that will require a different layout. In sandy soil, the water will tend to go straight down, so we recommend using micro sprinklers or closely spaced, 12 in. apart, 1 GPH or 2 GPH drippers. In loamy soil, the water will move slowly and will spread evenly, so here you can use .5 GPH or 1 GPH drippers with a 16 in. to 18 in. spacing. In clay soil in which drip irrigation work the best, the water will be absorbed very slowly, so use low flow drippers such as .5 or 1 GPH at a wider spacing, 18 in. to 24 in. apart.

Question: In what type of soil does drip irrigation work the best?

Answer: clay soil

Sunn, L. (2023). Drip Irrigation | Rainwater. https://www.rainbees.com/drip-irrigation


Context: The infiltration rate is the rate water can enter the soil surface. Michigan soils have infiltration rates from a high of 1 inch/2 hour to, as little as 20 minutes per inch. Heavier soils such as clay and clay loam will take water in at a slower rate than sands and sandy loams. Tillage method and surface compaction since a tillage operation affects infiltration rate. Conservation tillage and no-till result in the highest infiltration rate while disc and moldboard tillage result in the lowest rates, particularly after several wetting events. Estimates for water infiltration rates are included in the "physical and chemical properties of soils" section of the soil survey for your county.

Question: What causes lower infiltration rates?

Answer: wetting events

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: (3) MSU Excel Version of Scheduler: allows greater flexibility and adaptability to irrigators who are comfortable using Excel. This method will provide results for all of Michigan and the upper tier counties in Indiana. Reference crop E.T. can be taken from each of the Enviro-weather stations where the program will use crop specific coefficient to adjust for your crop stage of growth.

Question: What will the MSU excel version of scheduler use?

Answer: the program will use crop specific coefficient to adjust for your crop stage of growth

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: Instructions for completing the Evaluating Potential Irrigation Runoff Form. (2) Select a radial transect line (for center pivots) or a transect line representing the watering pattern (for solid set or traveler systems) through the identified lowest infiltration/highest runoff potential area of the field identified above.

Question: What should I select for solid set systems when completing the Evaluating Potential Irrigation Runoff Form?

Answer: a transect line representing the watering pattern

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: The irrigated sandy loam soils of northern Indiana and southern Michigan require about half an inch of irrigation to wet the soil profile down five to six inches. A single half inch application is often enough to germinate seed, assist in emergence (alleviate crusting) and incorporate fertilizers and pre-emergence herbicides. Heavier loam soils may need 0.7 inch to 1 inch of water to wet the top 6 inches of soil to accomplish these tasks.

Question: Where is the soil that requires about half an inch of irrigation to wet the soil profile down five to six inches?

Answer: northern Indiana and southern Michigan

Kelley, L. (2013a). Efficient irrigation application volumes change throughout crop development. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/efficient_irrigation_application_volumes_change_throughout_crop_development


Context: Question: Can all soils be irrigated? Excerpt:All soils can be irrigated but the right irrigation system has to be selected. For example, soils with a high clay content can be irrigated with a trickle (often called drip) irrigation system, a surface irrigation system (if the land has less than 2% slope) and a solid-set sprinkler system, however, a moving sprinkler system like center pivots and lateral moves may not work very well. Conversely, a soil with a high sand fraction on sloping land can be irrigated very well with a moving sprinkler system but not by a surface irrigation system and it may be difficult to use trickle irrigation and solid-set sprinklers due to elevation differences. Center pivots are used to apply water to over 88% of the irrigated land in North Dakota. Due to the preference for moving sprinkler systems, all the soils in the state have been classified as irrigable, conditional and non-irrigable. The irrigable and non-irrigable classifications are self-explanatory but a soil may be conditional for one or more of the following reasons: salinity accumulation concerns, too much slope, irrigation water quality, shallow bedrock, poor drainage characteristics and too much gravel. Successful irrigation also relies on the compatibility of the water quality with the soils in the field. In general, sandy well-drained soils can be irrigated using water with higher TDS and SAR than soils with more clay and silt content.

Question: What type of irrigation is not ideal for soil with a high sand fraction?

Answer: surface irrigation system

NDSU Agriculture. (2024). Irrigation - Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/ag-topics/crop-production/irrigation-tiling-drainage/irrigation-frequently-asked-questions


Context: Baseline Capacity (Rated Capacity): The registration process establishes a "Baseline Capacity" based on the available withdrawal capacity of a system. The baseline capacity of the system should be reported as pump capacity in gal/min. along with a pump and system description which is compatible with the well log. Baseline capacity applies to both wells and surface water withdrawals. Please note: You should report this baseline capacity value on the registration form on the line listed as "Rated Capacity".

Question: What is the baseline capacity based on?

Answer: the available withdrawal capacity of a system

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: A raise in rent values greater than just recovering the investment in the water well is justified since the well allows a greater net profit with lower risk then dry land farming. The additional profit above the cost of the addition of irrigation is often split between landlord and lessee.

Question: How is the profit above the cost of the addition of irrigation split?

Answer: between landlord and lessee

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: Checkbook method of irrigation scheduling follows the concept that the soil in your field is like a bank checking account. Rainfall and irrigation applications are deposits into the checking account. Rainfall and irrigation may need to be reduced to reflect the effective amount added to soil moisture. Daily water removal from evaporation and transpiration (evapotranspiration or E.T.) from the field and crop would be considered withdrawals from the account. Soil has a maximum amount of water that can be held (called Field Capacity), so water added beyond the soils water holding capacity is lost to the account. Irrigation applied at a rate exceeding the infiltration capacity will cause surface runoff and be lost to the soil water balance account.

Question: What needs to be done in order to reflect the effective amount added to soil moisture?

Answer: Rainfall and irrigation may need to be reduced

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: Annual operating costs will include an estimate of energy cost and labor attributable to the average operation of the equipment. For calculation purposes an annual use of six 1 inch applications of irrigation was used. A greater number of small applications will favor systems that have low labor costs, where a smaller number of large applications would favor systems with high labor and low investment attributes. Systems with low energy cost primarily from low pumping cost are favored by higher total annual use where low initial cost often compensate for higher energy cost if a low total volume of water is applied annually.

Question: What application irrigation rate should be used for calculation purposes when it comes to calculating annual operating costs?

Answer: annual use of six 1 inch applications of irrigation

Kelley, L. (2014a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #7- Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff.Instantaneous irrigation application rates compared to soil infiltration rates. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/7_ReducingAndEvalRunoff.pdf


Context: P.A. 33 of 2006 amended Michigan's Natural Resources Protection Act as part 327 of 451. Changes included: (b3) Establishing a baseline capacity is important since P.A. 33 provides a statement that existing water users are granted a rebuttable presumption of no "adverse resource impact". No adverse resource impact is the standard that all large capacity water users must meet within P.A. 33 structure. The reputable presumption of no adverse resource impact puts the burden of proof on those challenging a registered large capacity water user's water use. Expanding system capacity by more than 70 gallons/min beyond the baseline capacity, constitutes a new water withdrawal.

Question: What does expanding the system capacity by more than 70 gallons/min beyond the baseline capacity do?

Answer: constitutes a new water withdrawal

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: According to Michigan State University Extension, if a producer's irrigation capacity is low, this means that the grower should be starting to irrigate prior to peak use or during rainy spells to build moisture level. Many irrigators started too late and could never regain good soil moisture level during the drought of 2012. If you have the capacity to provide one inch every three days, you can afford to gamble on receiving rainfall. For most producers, starting late can lead to poor irrigated yields.

Question: What does starting late to build moisture levels lead to?

Answer: poor irrigated yields

Kelley, L. (2014c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #14  - Irrigation Application Volumes. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/14_IrrigationApplication.pdf


Context: Question: What is drip irrigation? Excerpt: Drip irrigation is the slow and precise application of water directly to the root zone of the plant, resulting in less water lost to evaporation in the sun or wind. The root zone is maintained at the ideal moisture level combining the proper balance of water and air. All of these factors promote deeper penetration of the roots, more foliage growth and abundant flower, vegetable and fruit production!

Question: What occurs to the root zone during drip irrigation?

Answer: maintained at the ideal moisture level

DIG Corp. (2024). Drip Irrigation FAQ’s. https://www.digcorp.com/drip-irrigation-faqs/


Question: What is evapotransporation rate?

Answer: represents the daily water lost by the plants maintenance and growth along with the evaporative loss from the soil surface

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: (3) Surface water availability. Is surface water available in dependable large volumes? Surface water quantities need to be available at the time of maximum irrigation, often late July early August. This is the season the surface waters are near their lowest. Make sure to evaluate available flow the summer before you start irrigating. In most areas you may not delete stream flow to the extent that it negatively impacts neighbors or the environment. If not, consider part of the water of the States, drainage ditches flow, may be depleted. Remember there can be major contamination challenges impacting food safety in using surface water for vegetable irrigation and cooling.

Question: What should I evaluate available flow for irrigation?

Answer: the summer before you start irrigating

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.pdf


Context: Insurance coverage: Establish responsibility for insurance coverage for the well, other permanent irrigation related improvements along with insurance coverage for the pivots and other non-permanent irrigation related equipment is an issue to be resolve before the insurance is needed. The local farm insurance provider in the area can help you evaluate the irrigation related options available. Many irrigation dealers can also direct you toward specialized irrigation insurance coverage.

Question: Should insurance coverage be decided before or after insurance is needed?

Answer: before

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Question: What is the advantage and benefits of using drip irrigation system? Excerpt: The advantage and benefits are more than just saving water.Water Efficiency: By applying water only where and when it is needed, with less runoff, deep percolation, and evaporation from leaves and soil, the uniform application of water from drip irrigation systems can achieve high water savings ranging upwards to 60%.Ease of Installation: A drip system can be installed without special tools or glue, and with limited knowledge, therefore making the installation a very simple process. DIG's low volume irrigation systems install easily above or below the ground.Reduced Pest Problems and Weed Growth: Watering only the roots of the plants using drip irrigation cuts down on water-borne pests and fungal diseases that spread by water movement, as well as the germination of weeds in the areas between plants.Versatility: Low volume irrigation systems are designed for placement in both new and existing landscape areas, and are ideal for installation on difficult terrain such as on slopes, in oddly shaped areas, and on windy sites.Root Zone: One of the most important aspects of drip irrigation is the fact that in many instances, a totally new and more favorable root zone environment is created and a relatively constant soil moisture level is maintained. This fact has important implications on plants because it bears upon questions of plant water requirements, tolerance and control of disease.Economy: Investing in a low volume irrigation system can save you money and significantly lower your water use.Long Life: All DIG products are designed to withstand the harshest conditions in both home and commercial installations. They are manufactured of high quality, highly durable plastics and contain added quantities of the compound Carbon Black, making them resistant to the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.

Question: What is the installation process like for a drip irrigation system?

Answer: A drip system can be installed without special tools or glue, and with limited knowledge

DIG Corp. (2024). Drip Irrigation FAQ’s. https://www.digcorp.com/drip-irrigation-faqs/


Question: What results in the lowest infiltration rate?

Answer: disc

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: (12) Specialty/vegetable crop options. Indiana and Michigan's irrigated land is dominated by contracted specialty crops like vegetable and hybrid seed corn production. The reduced risks offered by sandy soils for early planting, less delays after rain for field work, low to no flooding injury potential coupled with the removal of drought stress entice the high dollar invested seed and vegetable crops to the area. These options and conditions are not available everywhere in Michigan and Indiana. Avoid the idea that "if you build it they will come". Do your homework and identify what options are realistically available and feasible for your operation.

Question: Are conditions enticed by high dollar invested seeds available everywhere in Michigan and Indiana?

Answer: no

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: (11) Crop rotation and tillage preferences. Among the traditional crops, commercial corn and alfalfa have shown the greatest economic advantage to irrigation. Small grains and soybeans have offered some of the lowest returns from added investment in irrigation. Changes in crop rotations often result from adding irrigation. Although it is not always the case, a smaller proportion of irrigated fields are managed using no till systems then non-irrigated fields. Excessive corn residue produced on irrigated fields might be part of the reason.

Question: Why are no-till systems not used as often to manage irrigated fields?

Answer: Excessive corn residue produced on irrigated fields

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.pdf


Context: Michigan has had similar registration and reporting requirements since 2006 requiring the registration of new large volume water withdrawals (greater than 70 gallons/minute capacity). The Assessment tool and registration prior to construction establishes the specific location, owner/operator and rated or baseline capacity of the water withdrawal. Annual reporting then follows, with a monthly breakdown of the actual amount of water used.

Question: What else is evaluated when reporting?

Answer: a monthly breakdown of the actual amount of water used

Kelley, L. (2009c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #9 - Michigan Large Volume Water Use Requirements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/9largewaterwith.pdf


Context: At times of peak water use, the application volume could be as large as 1.5 inches for four to five days of water use. It is all about efficiency. The plant most effectively uses water is through transpiration. Water that is lost from evaporation at the soil surface or on the leaves is less beneficial to the plant, providing only a temporarily cooler environment. Small application may help in evaporative cooling during pollination or other crucial times, but reduces the amount of water that actually gets to the roots compared to fewer large applications totaling the same amount.

Question: What is the result of small applications?

Answer: reduces the amount of water that actually gets to the roots compared to fewer large applications totaling the same amount.

Kelley, L. (2014c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #14  - Irrigation Application Volumes. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/14_IrrigationApplication.pdf


Context: Question: What is the best way to water container plants? Excerpt: To start a drip system for containers or pots, our complete kits are a great way to start such as model'FM01AS'for 10 pots or the'G77AS'for up to 24 pots. For large containers or raised garden beds our'ML50 kit'is ideal.If you would like to add to an existing system or create your own system that can be easily accomplished by buying our products separately. Our suggestion is to use a combination of 1/4 in. dripline'(microtubing with pre-inserted emitters)'and misters for large containers and individual drippers for small pots. For larger or longer containers use a 1/4 in. dripline. For pots use 1-2 .5 GPH drippers per pot. First, categorize the containers and pots into groups with similar sizes and similar watering needs. It is also advisable to divide containers and pots into groups that are either in full sun or in shaded areas. We have made a list'(pot and basket parts list and installation)'for what we think are the best steps to help you install this type of system. Please be aware that every installation application is different and we cannot make this link perfect for every situation. If you do not find the exact information that pertains to your application,'send as an email'with what you would like to do and we will provide a recommendation.

Question: How long should the drip line be for large containers?

Answer: use a 1/4 in. dripline

DIG Corp. (2024). Drip Irrigation FAQ’s. https://www.digcorp.com/drip-irrigation-faqs/


Context: How to Get More Out of Your Irrigation System: (4) Schedule irrigation applications. Have a plan to determine the appropriate amount of water to be applied to a crop at the correct time to avoid yield loss and conserve water. Under watering will reduce yield potential leaving valuable crop inputs under utilized. Over watering can waste nature resources and potentially push nutrient out of the root zone. Several irrigation scheduling tools are available at the website.

Question: What is a consequence of over watering?

Answer: can waste nature resources and potentially push nutrient out of the root zone

Kelley, L. (2009b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #8 - How to Get More from your Irrigation System. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/HGMIrrSys.pdf


Context: In extreme situations of average daily temperatures over 90 degrees, low relative humidity and wind, water use may reach .31 to .33 inches per day. Crops that cannot tolerate extremes may need an irrigation system designed to meet a requirement of one inch every 3 days (6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation). System design capacity of greater than 6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation are only needed in situation where crop management practice result in water application at a rate faster than the soil infiltration rate resulting in water loss below the root zone or less than 100% effective water use.

Question: What is the solution for crops that cannot tolerate extreme situations?

Answer: one inch every 3 days

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: As July nears, irrigation goals need to switch to maximizing water to the root zone. Potential to loose water below the root zone lessens with higher crop water use and less chance of potential rain fall meeting crop needs. Transpiration is more effective use of water than evaporation from soil or leaf surface, providing an opportunity for irrigators to maximize effective water use by minimizing the time they wet the plant leaf and soil surface. Limiting the number of time the foliage is wetted also reduces the potential for many foliar crop diseases.

Question: What changes during the month of July?

Answer: Potential to loose water below the root zone lessens with higher crop water use and less chance of potential rain fall meeting crop needs

Kelley, L. (2013a). Efficient irrigation application volumes change throughout crop development. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/efficient_irrigation_application_volumes_change_throughout_crop_development


Context: If pollination is good, manage the field as normal. If pollination is poor, those kernels will develop normally with reduced yield potential. These field may be considered for forage or silage harvest. If there is no pollination, there are two options; (1) harvest as near to pollination as possible for the highest quality forage possible or (2) leave the crop as a living cover crop until the fall before mowing or chopping. Continual leaf rolling of the plant in the weeks leading up to pollination can result in a yield loss of 1-5 percent per day. During pollen shed and silking severe stress can reduce yields by up to nine percent per day. In the weeks following pollination drought stress can reduce yield by up to six percent per day.

Question: What reduces yield by up to six percent per day?

Answer: In the weeks following pollination drought stress

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Question: What is lift irrigation system? Excerpt: Unlike the normal irrigation systems where water flow is natural (gravity flow); here water is transported or lifted through pumps or surge pools. This system works as two parts: the one where the water is carried from the source through pumps to the delivery chamber and second water is distributed from the chamber to the fields. It requires 3 things or components such as water source, lifting medium (pump) and conveying medium (pipes).

Question: How does the second part of a lift irrigation system work?

Answer: water is distributed from the chamber to the fields

AgriFarming. (2023). Frequently Asked Questions about Irrigation (FAQs) | Agri Farming. https://www.agrifarming.in/frequently-asked-questions-about-irrigation-faqs


Question: Should permanent irrigation related improvements be decided before or after insurance is needed?

Answer: before

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Effects on vegetative corn: Drought stress during vegetative stages results in reduced stem and leaf cell expansion (shorter plants with less leaf area). The effect of drought stress on leaf morphology is much larger than that of photosynthesis. When drought stress is combined with heat stress vegetative development will progress more rapidly. Any stress that occurs during the sixth to eighth leaf stage (V6-V8) can result in fewer kernel rows, whereas stress from eighth leaf to seventeenth leaf stage (V8-V17) can result in fewer kernels per row.

Question: What causes shorter plants with less leaf area?

Answer: Drought stress during vegetative stages

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: (2) The MSU Soil Water Balance Sheet: is a paper version of a checkbook scheduler producers can use Reference Evapotranspiration (E.T.) Data from their own E.T. gauge station or Reference E.T. data form Purdue's PAC center weather stations. For Michigan, producers can use the Enviroweather data listed above. The Soil Water Balance Sheet helps producers convert the Reference E.T. into a estimate water removal for either corn or soybeans in their field.

Question: What is The MSU Soil Water Balance Sheet?

Answer: a paper version of a checkbook scheduler

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Effects on corn during grain fill: During grain fill drought stress results in premature death of leaf tissue, shortened grain fill periods, increased lodging, fewer kernels, and light kernel weights. Kernel abortion near the ear tip will occur in the two weeks following pollination. Continued drought into the milk stage will result in further kernel abortion and smaller, lighter kernels. Drought that occurs in the mid to late grain filling period (milk, dough, and dent stages) results in decreased kernel weights and premature physiological maturity. Once physiological maturity occurs additional drought stress will have no impact on grain yield. Because drought stress typically coincides with higher than normal temperatures the grain fill period is often reduced.

Question: Why would a grain fill period for corn be reduced during drought stress?

Answer: Because drought stress typically coincides with higher than normal temperatures

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Permanent improvements. The annual cost of permanent improvements made by lessee should be viewed as additional income above lease rate by landowners. Wells are always the property of the landowner of the land they are constructed on but many of the other items associated with the irrigation system may be recoverable or moved by the lessee at the end of the agreement. For this reason it is important to list the land improvements in their entirety and include the handling of the item at the termination of the agreement. If the improvement left by the lessee are all but the pivot or distribution system the landowner has a clean separation at the end of the agreement period if needed, with less potential problem locating another lessee to irrigate the farm allowing the landowner to recoup the investment in land improvements.

Question: What can be recoverable or moved by the lessee at the end of the agreement?

Answer: other items associated with the irrigation system

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Question: Is the effect of drought stress greater on leaf morphology or the effect of photosynthesis?

Answer: The effect of drought stress

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Table 1. Example corn yield loss estimates when stress occurs for four or more consecutive days. Adapted from Classen and Shaw, 1970; Rhoads and Bennet, 1990; and Shaw, 1988.  The Corn Development stage known as early vegetative (VE - V12) has an estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 1-3. The Corn Development stage known as Late vegetative (V12 to VT) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 2-5. The Corn Development stage known as Pollination to Blister (R2) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-9. The Corn Development stage known as Milk (R3) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-6. The Corn Development stage known as Dough (R4) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 3-5. The Corn Development stage known as Dent (R5) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 2-4. The Corn Development stage known as Maturity (R6) has an Estimated Yield Loss per Day of Stress of 0.

Question: What is the estimated yield loss per day of stress for corn in the dough development stage?

Answer: 3-5

Iowa State University. (2023). How Drought Affects Corn & Soybean Growth & Yield. https://www.no-tillfarmer.com/articles/12564-how-drought-affects-corn-and-soybean-growth-and-yield


Context: Applying nitrogen fertilizer or crop protection products through a center pivot is an efficient and effective method. In fact, it is a well-documented best management practice to apply nitrogen fertilizer as close to the time the corn will use it to get the most efficient use of the fertilizer. Most of the products are injected into the pivot with a fixed rate injection pump. So, how does one figure the pumping rate to set the pump at, and what about the change the end gun causes when it's turned on and off? We will discuss both challenges in this article.

Question: At what rate are products injected into the pivot?

Answer: a fixed rate injection pump

Melvin, S. (2023a). How to Determine the Chemigation Injection Pump Setting for a Center Pivot with the End Gun Off and On. UNL CropWatch. https://cropwatch.unl.edu/2023/how-determine-chemigation-injection-pump-setting-center-pivot-end-gun-and


Context: P.A. 33 of 2006 amended Michigan's Natural Resources Protection Act as part 327 of 451. Changes included: (b2) From the legal perspective, the Baseline Capacity is the reported system capacity used or developed to make a withdrawal on or before Feb. 28, 2006. If a large capacity water user does not report a "Baseline Capacity", MDA will use the highest annual amount of water withdrawn as reported for 2004 or 2005 and calculate one. Note: Since few producers run pumps continuously, most water users have available system capacities which will greatly exceed the amount of water that has been reported in 2004 or 2005.

Question: Why do system capacities greatly exceed the amount of water that has been reported in 2004 or 2005?

Answer: few producers run pumps continuously

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Increasing the amount of water that may enter the soil in a given period of time: The instantaneous irrigation application rate will vary throughout the length of a center pivot irrigation system, with the highest instantaneous application rates at the end of the system furthest from the pivot point. Instantaneous irrigation application rate will be uniform for solid set and large gun hose traveler irrigation systems as long as application time or forward travel of system is unchanged.

Question: Given a center irrigation system, where will the instantaneous application rate be the highest?

Answer: at the end of the system furthest from the pivot point.

Kelley, L. (2014a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #7- Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff.Instantaneous irrigation application rates compared to soil infiltration rates. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/7_ReducingAndEvalRunoff.pdf


Context: Knowing the actual amount of fertilizer the equipment will inject is essential. It is also important to know that the system applies water uniformly across the field. Center pivot systems of good design and repair will have uniformity co-efficient of greater than 85%. Many systems have uniformity co-efficient in the 70 to 75% range allowing the misapplication of a quarter of the water and fertilizer going through them.

Question: What is essential to know when it comes to fertigation?

Answer: the actual amount of fertilizer the equipment will inject

Kelley, L. (2013). Irrigation Fact Sheet #12 - Nitrogen Application with Irrigation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/12_NitrogenApplicationWithIrrigationFact_Sheet.pdf


Context: Sensors should be placed at several different depths and locations in the field. Typically, sensors are placed in pairs at one-third and two-thirds the depth of the crop root zone and at two or more locations in the field, preferably in the representative soil type away from high points, depressions and slopes. Some fields contain both heavy and light textured soils. In those fields, it is recommended that each soil type be monitored and managed separately for irrigation. Field mapping technologies can be used to identify different soil, such as electromagnetic conductivity (EM) mapping. By identifying different soils (different water holding capacities), management zones can be created that can be managed separately.

Question: When do multiple management zones need to be created?

Answer: fields contain both heavy and light textured soils.

Sharma, V. (2019). Soil moisture sensors for irrigation scheduling | UMN Extension. https://extension.umn.edu/irrigation/soil-moisture-sensors-irrigation-scheduling


Context: Late season applications are lowered as crop water use declines with increasing crop maturity. At the dent stage of development, corn water use can be as little as 0.15 inches per day on a 75 degree day. The chance of receiving rainfall increases during this portion of the growing season. Applications of 0.75 inches at the beginning of this period may quickly decline to 0.50 inch as the crop nears black layer or maturity.

Question: What will applications of 0.75 inches at the beginning of the late season decline to as the crop nears black layer or maturity?

Answer: 0.50 inch

Kelley, L. (2013a). Efficient irrigation application volumes change throughout crop development. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/efficient_irrigation_application_volumes_change_throughout_crop_development


Context: Question: I want to run my system three times per week.' How long should each zone run? Excerpt: Individual circumstances will vary, but as a general rule, depending on the season, spray heads should run between 5 - 15 minutes, rotors should run 15 - 30 minutes, and drip lines should run 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Question: I want to run my system three times per week. How long should drip lines run?

Answer: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Carolina Irrigation. (2024). FAQ | Carolina Irrigation | Residential & Commercial Irrigation Experts Since 1999. https://www.carolinairrigation.net/faq


Context: Evapotranspiration demand that exceeds soil water supplies will result in yield reductions at any time during the crop life cycle. When plant water uptake by the roots is limited so is nutrient availability, uptake, and transport. Additionally, water stressed plants are more susceptible to insect and disease pathogens and have diminished stem integrity.

Question: When are nutrient availability, uptake, and transport limited?

Answer: When plant water uptake by the roots is limited

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Corn management and yield loss: Management depends on the remaining yield potential. Each field provides a unique combination of soil, management, hybrid, and water supply so not all the fields will have the same yield reduction. After pollination a key is to determine how successful pollination was; that is how many kernels per ear were attained. This can be determined by performing a shake test to see if silks are still attached to the ovules (unfertilized kernels); silks will easily drop from fertilized ovules (kernels). Or wait until seven to ten days after pollination when the ear is in the blister stage (plump kernels with watery liquid inside) to see how many kernels are expanding.

Question: How can I determine how successful corn pollination was?

Answer: by performing a shake test to see if silks are still attached to the ovules (unfertilized kernels); silks will easily drop from fertilized ovules (kernels). Or wait until seven to ten days after pollination when the ear is in the blister stage (plump kernels with watery liquid inside) to see how many kernels are expanding

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Irrigation systems need to be able to replace the typical water use of the plant during a prolonged dry period. System costs increase as capacity increases. Typically water sources capable of 400 to 1200 gallons per minute are used to supply irrigation water. Systems designed to apply 0.25 inch per day (5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation) can provide adequate water in all but the most extreme situations. Evapotransporation rate (E.T.) is a term that represents the daily water lost by the plants maintenance and growth along with the evaporative loss from the soil surface. E.T. rates for almost all crops grown in northern Indiana and Michigan have rates under 0.25 inch per day for all but a few extreme days.

Question: When do system costs increase?

Answer: as capacity increases

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: Permanent improvements: The addition of irrigation to farmland often requires investment in permanent improvements to the land. The landowner may make these improvements upfront and recoup their investment over time in higher land rent charges. If landowners are not willing to pay for the permanent improvements to the land needed for irrigation, the lessee may advance the cost of the permanent improvements and recover his investment over the period of the contract in the form of a small increase in land rent values. Many lease agreements for irrigated land provide no upfront cost to the landowner but transfer value of permanent improvement paid by the lessee to the landlord over the period of 5 to 10 years. Shorter time frames provide a higher value return to landowner.

Question: What does the addition of irrigation to farmland require?

Answer: investment in permanent improvements to the land

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Option to purchase the farm in future: (c) Repayment requirements of the unrecouped portion of the permanent land improvements made by the lessee if contract is prematurely terminated is often view as a form of security from farm land being sold out from their ability to lease. A schedule of repayment is constructed by amortizing the dollar investment over the period of the contract at the current interest rate. The resulting chart allows the landowner to find the agreed upon fee for early termination of the contract. Contract needs to have provisions for early termination upon one of agreed list if situations happen. These may include death of one of the parties, sale of farm or dissolving of the farm business.

Question: What does the agreed upon fee relate to on a payment schedule?

Answer: for early termination of the contract

Specht, J., & Torrion, J. (2015). Optimize Your Irrigation Application Timing with SoyWater.unl.edu | CropWatch | University of Nebraska–Lincoln. https://cropwatch.unl.edu/optimize-your-irrigation-application-timing-soywaterunledu


Context: Annual operating cost will include an estimate of energy cost and labor attributable to the average operation of the equipment. For calculation purposes an annual use of six one inch applications of irrigation was used. A greater number of small applications will favor systems that have low labor costs, where a smaller number of large applications would favor system with high labor and low investment attributes. Systems with low energy cost primarily from low pumping cost are favored by higher total annual use where low initial cost often compensate for higher energy cost if a low total volume of water is applied annually.

Question: Do systems with low energy costs, have a high or low pumping cost?

Answer: low

Kelley, L., & Miller, S. (2019). Irrigation Fact Sheet #3 - Irrigation Scheduling Tools. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/3_IrrigationSchedulingTools5.14.pdf


Context: Sub-leasing: One major issue that needs to be considered in the negotiations of adding irrigation is the ability for the lessee to sublet the property. As high dollar specialty crop become more common in the area opportunity to rent irrigated land for a single production year for nearly double the local irrigated rent rate become a reality. Annual sub-renting could leave land owners with an unfamiliar face to deal with if neighbor water well issue arises. Addressing sub-leasing issue in writing can avoid grief and confusion in the future.

Question: Why should I address sub-leasing in my agreement?

Answer: avoid grief and confusion in the futur

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: Plant transpiration increases as corn leaf area increases. Transpiration is the mechanism by which water moves from the soil through the plant into the atmosphere. The greatest water demand for corn occurs from the late vegetative stages through the blister stage and for soybean from the early pod set through the mid seed fill stages. In other words, the greatest demand for transpiration occurs during periods of rapid growth.

Question: What is transpiration?

Answer: the mechanism by which water moves from the soil through the plant into the atmosphere.

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: (1) Enviroweather: computes daily estimate of potential E.T. and projects E.T. demands for 7 days at each of the 58 strategically located weather stations in Michigan calculating crop E.T. using wind, relative humidity, and net solar radiation in addition to temperature to estimate crop E.T. demands. Pick the station nearest to you, and then click on one of the categories listed near the top of the screen (eg. Field crops, Fruit), then click on Potential Evapotranspiration. For corn and soybeans clicking the Crop ET Estimate button then entering the emergences date allowing tracking crop ET as the crop develops. A free service of Enviroweather Network sends daily reports of ET from the previous 4 days and projected values for the next week by text or E-mail to producers that signed up.

Question: Which variables does the Enviroweather tool use to calculate crop evapotranspiration?

Answer: wind, relative humidity, and net solar radiation in addition to temperature

Kelley, L., & Miller, S. (2019). Irrigation Fact Sheet #3 - Irrigation Scheduling Tools. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/3_IrrigationSchedulingTools5.14.pdf


Question: What does evapotranspiration demand that exceeds soil water supplies result in?

Answer: yield reductions at any time during the crop life cycle

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Question: Why do not all fields have the same yield reduction?

Answer: Each field provides a unique combination of soil, management, hybrid, and water supply

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: How to Get More Out of Your Irrigation System: (5) Use irrigation to lessen stand loss due to soil crusting. Apply 0.5 inch in most irrigated soil at the appearance of first spike if crusting is hampering emergence. Maintain a moist soil surface with small application till crop emerges.

Question: Until when should I irrigate in a situation where crusting is hampering emergence?

Answer: till crop emerges

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #8 - How to Get More from your Irrigation System. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/HGMIrrSys.pdf


Context: (10) Cornering arm hydro valves: Use of hydro valves is the most common method for controlling the irrigation water from individual sprinklers on cornering arms and Z arms that are in their folded back position. If valves are stuck open you are grossly overwatering endrows or other field edges where the arm is not deployed. Valves that are stuck closed will result in under watering corners of the field. While the machine is running, inspect sprinklers in a corner area with the arm fully deployed to make sure all sprinklers come on and in an area with the arm fully folded to see if all valves shut off.

Question: What would happen if valves were stuck open?

Answer: you are grossly overwatering endrows or other field edges

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: Checkbook method of irrigation scheduling follows the concept that the soil in your field is like a bank checking account. Rainfall and irrigation applications are deposits into the checking account. Rainfall and irrigation may need to be reduced to reflect the effective amount added to soil moisture. Daily water removal from evaporation and transpiration (evapotranspiration or E.T.) from the field and crop would be considered withdrawals from the account. Soil has a maximum amount of water that can be held (called Field Capacity), so water added beyond the soils water holding capacity is lost to the account. Irrigation applied at a rate exceeding the infiltration capacity will cause surface runoff and be lost to the soil water balance account.

Question: What will cause surface runoff?

Answer: Irrigation applied at a rate exceeding the infiltration capacity

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: Fertigation is often the last step in a three split nitrogen management plan, following starter and side dress applications. Starter allows quick access to nutrients to the newly germinated plants. Side dress applications usually account for the greatest portion of N budget, feeding the plant just prior to the rapid growth phase. Depending upon the equipment used, side-dressing can also aerate soil and improve water infiltration. Fertigation makes up the remainder of the budget supplying nitrogen to the crop just prior to tassel emergence. For efficient use, Nitrogen applications need to be made prior to tasseling to ensure that the nitrogen applied is in an available form for the plant to uptake and use during early grain formation.

Question: Why do nitrogen applications need to be made prior to tasselling?

Answer: to ensure that the nitrogen applied is in an available form for the plant to uptake and use during early grain formation

Kelley, L. (2011). New irrigation planning checklist - MSU Extension. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/new_irrigation_planning_checklist


Question: Which variables does the Enviroweather tool use to calculate crop E.T.?

Answer: wind, relative humidity, and net solar radiation in addition to temperature

Kelley, L., & Miller, S. (2019). Irrigation Fact Sheet #3 - Irrigation Scheduling Tools. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/3_IrrigationSchedulingTools5.14.pdf


Context: Estimating water use can be accomplished by several methods: (a) Water application multiplied by number of applications, plus estimate of additional water use. (b) Pump capacity multiplied by run time or fuel/power use per hour. (c) Flow meters actual flow, note maintenance and calibration concerns. (d) Industry average numbers (Mid West Plan Service or ASAE) with appropriate adjustments (not appropriate for high variable water uses such as irrigation).

Question: When should I not use industry average numbers to estimate my water usage?

Answer: for high variable water uses such as irrigation

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.pdf


Context: By mid-June the crop is near its full rooting depth, increasing the effective water holding capacity and lowering the potential of loss below the roots. At the same time, the potential for rainfall decreases and crop water use increases, allowing producers to increase their application volume to the 0.75 inch per application range. Typical crop water use would be 0.15 inches per day, making one 0.75 inch application last about 5 days.

Question: Does potential rainfall increase or decrease by mid-June?

Answer: decreases

Kelley, L. (2014c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #14  - Irrigation Application Volumes. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/14_IrrigationApplication.pdf


Question: What is a benefit of side dress application?

Answer: aerate soil

Kelley, L. (2011). New irrigation planning checklist - MSU Extension. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/new_irrigation_planning_checklist


Context: Irrigated production has the advantage of fertigation as an option in nitrogen management. Fertigation is the process of applying fertilizer through irrigation water. Liquid 28% nitrogen is the most common product for fertigation, but urea and micro-nutrient solutions are also available to meet crop nutrient needs, with proper equipment.

Question: What is the most common product for feritgation?

Answer: Liquid 28% nitrogen

Kelley, L. (2013). Irrigation Fact Sheet #12 - Nitrogen Application with Irrigation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/12_NitrogenApplicationWithIrrigationFact_Sheet.pdf


Context: (2a) February 28, 2006 through July 8, 2009 ' For new or increased large quantity withdrawals developed in this period, there is a rebuttable presumption that the withdrawal will not cause an adverse resource impact if (a) it is located more than 1320 feet from the banks of an affected stream reach, or (b) the well is at least 150 feet deep. Water use reporting is required. As mentioned above, voluntary registration of these withdrawals will help to improve the cumulative impact accounting procedure.

Question: What does voluntary registration of withdrawals do?

Answer: help to improve the cumulative impact accounting procedure

Kelley, L. (2009c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #9 - Michigan Large Volume Water Use Requirements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/9largewaterwith.pdf


Context: (3) MSU Excel Version of Scheduler: allows greater flexibility and adaptability to irrigators who are comfortable using Excel. This method will provide results for all of Michigan and the upper tier counties in Indiana. Reference crop E.T. can be taken from each of the Enviro-weather stations where the program will use crop specific coefficient to adjust for your crop stage of growth.

Question: Who developed the excel version of scheduler?

Answer: MSU

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool (WWAT) is designed to estimate the likely impact of a water withdrawal on nearby streams and rivers. Use of the WWAT is required of anyone proposing to make a new or increased large quantity withdrawal from the waters of the state, including all groundwater and surface water sources, prior to beginning the withdrawal. You must use the WWAT to determine if a proposed withdrawal is likely to cause an Adverse Resource Impact, and to register the withdrawal. The results page provides a quick link to submitting a registration. A registration is valid for 18 months; the withdrawal capacity must be installed within that 18 months or the registration becomes void.

Question: How long are water withdrawal registrations valid?

Answer: 18 months;

EGLE. (2023). WWAT-Home Page. https://www.egle.state.mi.us/wwat/(S(whxx1bja4grx05ino0gubkx4))/default.aspx


Context: Large capacity water users are required to report the following: (a) The amount and rate of water withdrawn on a monthly basis in either gallons or acre inches. (b) The type of crop irrigated if applicable. (c) The acreage of each irrigated crop if applicable. (d) The sources of the water supply. (e) If the water withdrawn is not used entirely for irrigation, the uses of the water being withdrawn. (f) If the source of water withdrawn is groundwater, the static water level of the aquifers need to be determined and reported. (g) Applicable water conservation practices and an implementation plan for those practices.

Question: When would one need to determine and report the static water level of the aquifers?

Answer: If the source of water withdrawn is groundwater

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: An overview of procedure to establish new large volume withdrawals: (a) Determine needed pumping capacity and probable location for the new withdrawal. (b) Work through the Michigan Large Volume Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool (MiWWAT) for a determination. (c) If the MiWWAT assessment is green (zone A) or yellow (zone B) you can proceed to register your proposed water withdrawal. Building can happen in the following 18 months and any small modification can be noted by returning to the tool and modifying your original request.

Question: What is the first step in the procedure of establishing new large volume withdrawals?

Answer: Determine needed pumping capacity and probable location for the new withdrawal.

Kelley, L. (2009c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #9 - Michigan Large Volume Water Use Requirements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/9largewaterwith.pdf


Context: (13) Service center drive and final drives on pivots. Gearboxes should be checked annually. First drain condensation water from the bottom of the box and then refill with recommended gear lube.

Question: What should you do prior to refilling your gearbox with lube?

Answer: drain condensation water from the bottom of the box

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: Among the traditional crops, commercial corn and alfalfa have shown the greatest economic advantage to irrigation. Small grains and soybeans have offered some of the lowest returns from added investment in irrigation. Changes in crop rotations often result from adding irrigation. Although it is not always the case, a smaller proportion of irrigated fields are managed using no till systems then non-irrigated fields. Excessive corn residue produced on irrigated fields might be part of the reason.

Question: Which crops offer the greatest economic advantage to irrigation?

Answer: commercial corn and alfalfa

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.pdf


Context: Effects on soybean during grain fill Drought effects on soybean are generally not as severe as corn. This is a result of overlapping of development stages. When short-term drought stress results in flower or pod abortion, new flowers and pods will set when conditions improve. During prolonged drought stress, or when the stress occurs during pod set and seed filling stages, the compensatory ability is not as likely to occur. Drought can reduce pod number by up to 20 percent as a result of flower and pod abortion. Seeds per pod and seed size can also be affected by drought stress but to a lesser extent than the number of pods. Drought stress often results in earlier maturity or shortening of the grain filling period resulting in lower seed weights and yields. Soybean yield loss from drought stress is compounded by the lack of nitrogen mineralization and nitrogen fixation. In dry conditions, nodules cease nitrogen fixation because of a lack of soil moisture and lack of carbohydrate supply from the soybean plant. If water deficits are short lived, nodule nitrogen fixation can resume.

Question: What happens in dry conditions after soybeans experience drought stress during grain fill?

Answer: nodules cease nitrogen fixation

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Question: How does the MSU Excel Version of Scheduler adjust your crop stage of growth?

Answer: use crop specific coefficient

Kelley, L. (2014b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #13 - Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/13_ReducingAndEvaluatingIrrigationRunoff_5-9-14.pdf


Context: As a permanent improvement to the land the irrigation well is owned by landowner and the liability of its potential impact on neighboring home wells is the responsibility of the landlord. The liability of its potential impact to neighboring home wells is a relatively small risk that can be managed by the rental agreement. These situations are uncommon but since the well belongs to the landowner the responsibility of the well also belongs to the landowner. The rental agreement can assign the responsibility of cost to improving neighbor well to the lessee if needed. Statements in rental agreements may require the lessee to manage the irrigation to prevent negative impact to neighboring wells, with the option to make improvements to neighboring wells to solve problem if they arise.

Question: How can the small risk posed by irrigation wells on neighboring home wells be dealt with?

Answer: by the rental agreement

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Average dry land and irrigated rent values can be used along with the rent surveys and other rent data from the area to create a base value which we can then adjust. To gain perspective on the potential increase in profit we often calculate the estimated cost of the irrigation investment (DIRTI formula) and add it to the dry land rent value to create the low end rent value. The high end rent value can be estimated by looking at the total irrigation investment cost, subtracting the portion of the irrigation investment annual cost that the landowner did not provide, from the irrigated land rent value.

Question: What can give me perspective into the potential increase in profit?

Answer: the low end rent value

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Question: What needs to be done to ensure that the nitrogen applies is in an available form for the plant to uptake and use during early grain formation?

Answer: Nitrogen applications need to be made prior to tasseling

Kelley, L. (2011). New irrigation planning checklist - MSU Extension. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/new_irrigation_planning_checklist


Context: In extreme situations of average daily temperatures over 90 degrees, low relative humidity and wind, water use may reach 0.31 to 0.33 inches per day. Crops that cannot tolerate extremes may need an irrigation system designed to meet a requirement of one inch every 3 days (6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation). Systems design capacity of greater than 6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation are only needed in situations where crop management practice result in water application at rates faster than the soil infiltration rate resulting in water loss below the root zone or less than 100% effective water use.

Question: What factors are considered to be extreme weather circumstances?

Answer: ow relative humidity and wind,

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: Question: What does it cost to setup a new quarter-section center pivot? Excerpt: Irrigation wells tap aquifers and unfortunately, most aquifers in North Dakota contain some level of dissolved iron. The amount of iron may vary from low to high but its presence in the water leaves a rusty color on pumps, pipelines and irrigation systems. The iron in the water provides the energy that iron bacteria need to grow and that process leaves a slimy organic substance on well screens, pump intakes and other parts of the well. It only takes a few years for this organic substance to plug the well screen and reduce well production. The only way to control iron bacteria is by annual chlorination.

Question: What is the problem with irrigation wells tapping aquifers?

Answer: most aquifers in North Dakota contain some level of dissolved iron

NDSU Agriculture. (2024). Irrigation - Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/ag-topics/crop-production/irrigation-tiling-drainage/irrigation-frequently-asked-questions


Context: An estimate of expected water use by the month is needed. Most irrigators will estimate their water use from experience multiplied by the number of acres irrigated. As an example: 100 acres with 1.5 inches of irrigation applied in June would have an estimated water use of 150 acre inches for the month. Three inches of estimated irrigation need in both July and August and 1 inch in September would give us an estimated annual water use of 550 acre inches for the year.

Question: If three inches of estimated irrigation are needed in both July and August and one inch in September, what is the estimated annual water use?

Answer: 550 acre inches for the year

Kelley, L. (2007). Irrigation Fact Sheet #4 - Michigan Registration for New Agricultural Withdrawals. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/MIRegNewAgWith.pdf


Context: Irrigation systems need to be able to replace the typical water use of the plant during a prolonged dry period. System costs increase as capacity increases. Typically water sources capable of 400 to 1200 gallons per minute are used to supply irrigation water. Systems designed to apply 0.25 inch per day (5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation) can provide adequate water in all but the most extreme situations. Evapotransporation rate (E.T.) is a term that represents the daily water lost by the plants maintenance and growth along with the evaporative loss from the soil surface. E.T. rates for almost all crops grown in northern Indiana and Michigan have rates under 0.25 inch per day for all but a few extreme days.

Question: What is the E.T. rate for almost all crops grown in Northern Indiana?

Answer: under 0.25 inch per day for all but a few extreme days

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: (1) Enviroweather: computes daily estimate of potential E.T. and projects E.T. demands for 7 days at each of the 58 strategically located weather stations in Michigan calculating crop E.T. using wind, relative humidity, and net solar radiation in addition to temperature to estimate crop E.T. demands. Pick the station nearest to you, and then click on one of the categories listed near the top of the screen (eg. Field crops, Fruit), then click on Potential Evapotranspiration. For corn and soybeans clicking the Crop ET Estimate button then entering the emergences date allowing tracking crop ET as the crop develops. A free service of Enviroweather Network sends daily reports of ET from the previous 4 days and projected values for the next week by text or E-mail to producers that signed up.

Question: What is another term for farmers?

Answer: producers

Kelley, L., & Miller, S. (2019). Irrigation Fact Sheet #3 - Irrigation Scheduling Tools. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/236/43605/FactSheets/3_IrrigationSchedulingTools5.14.pdf


Context: (9) Check solid set system coverage patterns: Coverage from a solid set system is dependent on each individual sprinkler. Inspect the coverage after bringing the system to designed pressure. Visual inspection of each sprinkler while running will often find the major problems. Comparing pressure reading from sprinklers furthest from the source to the design specification will often indicate hidden leaks or under supplied systems.

Question: When should you begin inspecting your solid set system coverage?

Answer: after bringing the system to designed pressure

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: (12) Specialty/vegetable crop options. Indiana and Michigan's irrigated land is dominated by contracted specialty crops like vegetable and hybrid seed corn production. The reduced risks offered by sandy soils for early planting, less delays after rain for field work, low to no flooding injury potential coupled with the removal of drought stress entice the high dollar invested seed and vegetable crops to the area. These options and conditions are not available everywhere in Michigan and Indiana. Avoid the idea that "if you build it they will come". Do your homework and identify what options are realistically available and feasible for your operation.

Question: Can I decide to grow any specialty crop or high dollar invested see?

Answer: Do your homework and identify what options are realistically available and feasible for your operation

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #6 - Irrigation Aspects of Land Lease Agreements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/LandRent.pdf


Context: (4) Water rights and regulation. Make sure you understand your rights and obligation to use water in your State. Example: Michigan operates as a riparian state for surface water use allowing only the property with legal description adjacent to the surface water to receive the water, but well water may be transferred between properties.

Question: What are the rules when it comes to surface water and well water distribution in the state of Michigan?

Answer: only the property with legal description adjacent to the surface water to receive the water, but well water may be transferred between properties

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.pdf


Context: Permanent improvements: The addition of irrigation to farmland often requires investment in permanent improvements to the land. The landowner may make these improvements upfront and recoup their investment over time in higher land rent charges. If landowners are not willing to pay for the permanent improvements to the land needed for irrigation, the lessee may advance the cost of the permanent improvements and recover his investment over the period of the contract in the form of a small increase in land rent values. Many lease agreements for irrigated land provide no upfront cost to the landowner but transfer value of permanent improvement paid by the lessee to the landlord over the period of 5 to 10 years. Shorter time frames provide a higher value return to landowner.

Question: What is the effect of a shorter time frame that a lessee pays a landlord for the permanent improvement that must be implemented to land to be irrigated?

Answer: provide a higher value return to landowner.

Kelley, L., Miller, S., & Loudon, T. (2006). Irrigation Fact Sheet #1- Agricultural Water Use Reporting for 2006 Changes in Water Use Regulation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/1_AgWaterUseReporting11-29-06.pdf


Context: Effects on vegetative corn: Drought stress during vegetative stages results in reduced stem and leaf cell expansion (shorter plants with less leaf area). The effect of drought stress on leaf morphology is much larger than that of photosynthesis. When drought stress is combined with heat stress vegetative development will progress more rapidly. Any stress that occurs during the sixth to eighth leaf stage (V6-V8) can result in fewer kernel rows, whereas stress from eighth leaf to seventeenth leaf stage (V8-V17) can result in fewer kernels per row.

Question: What causes reduced stem and leaf expansion?

Answer: Drought stress during vegetative stages

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Question: How much is 1 inch every 3 days equal to in gallons/minute/acre of irrigation?

Answer: 6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: (2) Ground water availability. Irrigation is not profitable without a reliable and adequate source of water. Nearby large volume irrigation, municipal or industrial wells are an excellent source of water availability. Well drillers familiar with large volume wells in your area are also excellent resources. Michigan has available groundwater mapping tools that can help evaluate potential water withdrawal sites.

Question: What can I use to evaluate potential water withdrawal sites?

Answer: groundwater mapping tools

Kelley, L. (2013). Irrigation Fact Sheet #12 - Nitrogen Application with Irrigation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/12_NitrogenApplicationWithIrrigationFact_Sheet.pdf


Context: Question: What does it cost to setup a new quarter-section center pivot? Excerpt: A new center pivot irrigation system needs a water source (well or surface water), a pump, a power source (electric motor or engine), controls and often a buried pipeline. At 2018 prices, the average cost of a new quarter section center pivot (irrigating about 128 acres of the 160 acres), setup in a field with a concrete pad, is about $90,000. The cost of the pump, well, pipeline, controls and power may add another $65,000 for a total investment around $153,000 or near $1,200 per irrigated acre.

Question: What will the total cost be of installing a new quarter section center pivot with the pump, well, pipelines, controls, and power?

Answer: around $153,000 or near $1,200 per irrigated acre.

NDSU Agriculture. (2024). Irrigation - Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/ag-topics/crop-production/irrigation-tiling-drainage/irrigation-frequently-asked-questions


Context: An overview of procedure to establish new large volume withdrawals: (d) If the MiWWAT assessment is orange (zone c) or red (zone d) try to modify location or well depth to reduce stream flow impact. If more favorable assessment can not be achieved a Site Specific Review may be requested from Michigan Department of Environmental Quality through the MiWWAT tool. (e) If the MDEQ Site Specific Review does not provide a favorable registration to proceed, land owner may initiate a meeting of the Large Volume Water Users in the watershed to investigate reduction in water use by fellow large volume water users. (f) If the meeting of Large Volume Water Users does not provide MDEQ with sufficient reductions in use by other riparian to allow the proposed water use civil court action may be necessary to establish the riparian right to water use for the parcel.

Question: What must be done if the MiWWAT assessment is zone d?

Answer: try to modify location or well depth to reduce stream flow impact

Kelley, L. (2009c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #9 - Michigan Large Volume Water Use Requirements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/9largewaterwith.pdf


Context: (10) Cornering arm hydro valves: Use of hydro valves is the most common method for controlling the irrigation water from individual sprinklers on cornering arms and Z arms that are in their folded back position. If valves are stuck open you are grossly overwatering endrows or other field edges where the arm is not deployed. Valves that are stuck closed will result in under watering corners of the field. While the machine is running, inspect sprinklers in a corner area with the arm fully deployed to make sure all sprinklers come on and in an area with the arm fully folded to see if all valves shut off.

Question: What procedures should you follow to ensure that your sprinklers are working correctly?

Answer: inspect sprinklers in a corner area with the arm fully deployed to make sure all sprinklers come on

Kelley, L. (2017). Irrigation Fact Sheet #15 - Irrigation Inspection and Repair. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/factsheets/15_Irriation_Inspection_and_Repair_v2_4.21.17.pdf


Context: Achieving maximum efficiency from your center pivot starts with limiting runoff and ensuring uniform water application and infiltration.

Question: How can the effiency of a center-pivot irrigation system be improved?

Answer: limiting runoff and ensuring uniform water application and infiltration.

Burr, C., & Kranz, B. (2015). Irrigation Management in Extreme Conditions -- Maximizing Pivot Efficiency | CropWatch | University of Nebraska–Lincoln. https://cropwatch.unl.edu/irrigation-management-extreme-conditions-maximizing-pivot-efficiency


Context: The irrigated sandy loam soils of northern Indiana and southern Michigan require about half an inch of irrigation to wet the soil profile down five to six inches. A single half inch application is often enough to germinate seed, assist in emergence (alleviate crusting) and incorporate fertilizers and pre-emergence herbicides. Heavier loam soils may need 0.7 inch to 1 inch of water to wet the top 6 inches of soil to accomplish these tasks.

Question: How much irrigation do heavier loam soils require?

Answer: 0.7 inch to 1 inch of water

Kelley, L. (2013a). Efficient irrigation application volumes change throughout crop development. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/efficient_irrigation_application_volumes_change_throughout_crop_development


Context: Water is extremely important for crop production. When water becomes limiting to the plant it is important to understand how plants use water. We often hear the term evapotranspiration (ET) in relation to plant water demand. ET is a combination of soil water evaporation (E) and water used by the plant during transpiration (T). Soil evaporation is the major loss of water surface and typically is higher after rain and under high temperature conditions.

Question: What is water extremely important for?

Answer: crop production

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: (8) Power sources. Identify available power sources - a 3 phase power line in close proximity (1/2 mile or less) to potential water sources is the cheapest. Liquid fuel storages located near wells and surface water pose potential environmental risks, along with higher equipment, maintenance and fuel cost, leaving engine power as a second choice for most situations.

Question: What is a potential environmental risk when it comes to power sources?

Answer: Liquid fuel storages located near wells and surface water

Kelley, L. (2010). Irrigation Fact Sheet #10 - Shared Irrigation Expenses. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/10_Shared_Irrigation.pdf


Question: What is 5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation equal to in inches per day?

Answer: 0.25 inch per day

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #5 - Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/irrigation_costs/5_Estimating_Annual_Irrigation_Costs.pdf


Context: Effects on corn during grain fill: During grain fill drought stress results in premature death of leaf tissue, shortened grain fill periods, increased lodging, fewer kernels, and light kernel weights. Kernel abortion near the ear tip will occur in the two weeks following pollination. Continued drought into the milk stage will result in further kernel abortion and smaller, lighter kernels. Drought that occurs in the mid to late grain filling period (milk, dough, and dent stages) results in decreased kernel weights and premature physiological maturity. Once physiological maturity occurs additional drought stress will have no impact on grain yield. Because drought stress typically coincides with higher than normal temperatures the grain fill period is often reduced.

Question: What is a cause of smaller, lighter kernels?

Answer: Continued drought into the milk stage

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: How to Get More Out of Your Irrigation System: (3) Assure yourself of an adequate water supply. Five gal/minute/acre pump capacity or 0.25 inch/day will meet all crop needs except for hot long dry spells of 15 days or more. That means a 500 gal/minute pump can provide 1 inch every 4 days on 100 acres. Avoid legal challenges or neighbor complaints that may reduce your availability to water.

Question: How much water can a 500 gal/minute pump distribute?

Answer: 1 inch every 4 days on 100 acres

Kelley, L. (2009b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #8 - How to Get More from your Irrigation System. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/HGMIrrSys.pdf


Context: (3) On and after July 9, 2009 ' Large quantity water withdrawals proposed after July 8, 2009 must receive a favorable assessment from 'Michigan's Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool' or an approval from a requested site-specific review by the MDEQ and be registered before proceeding. If a site-specific review by the MDEQ or an evaluation by the Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool determines that a proposed withdrawal is a zone A or a zone B withdrawal, there is a rebuttable presumption that the withdrawal, as specified in the review or tool, will not cause an adverse resource impact. As previously stated penalties are in place for causing an adverse resource impact.

Question: What must withdrawals made/proposed after July 8, 2009 receive?

Answer: a favorable assessment from 'Michigan's Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool

Kelley, L. (2007b). Irrigation Fact Sheet #4 - Michigan Registration for New Agricultural Withdrawals. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/MIRegNewAgWith.pdf


Context: Annual operating costs will include an estimate of energy cost and labor attributable to the average operation of the equipment. For calculation purposes an annual use of six 1 inch applications of irrigation was used. A greater number of small applications will favor systems that have low labor costs, where a smaller number of large applications would favor systems with high labor and low investment attributes. Systems with low energy cost primarily from low pumping cost are favored by higher total annual use where low initial cost often compensate for higher energy cost if a low total volume of water is applied annually.

Question: What kind of systems does a greater number of small applications favor?

Answer: systems that have low labor costs

Kelley, L. (2014a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #7- Reducing and Evaluating Irrigation Runoff.Instantaneous irrigation application rates compared to soil infiltration rates. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/7_ReducingAndEvalRunoff.pdf


Question: Why should I not use engine power for my irrigation?

Answer: higher equipment, maintenance and fuel cost

Kelley, L. (2010). Irrigation Fact Sheet #10 - Shared Irrigation Expenses. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/10_Shared_Irrigation.pdf


Context: How to Get More Out of Your Irrigation System: (5) Use irrigation to lessen stand loss due to soil crusting. Apply 0.5 inch in most irrigated soil at the appearance of first spike if crusting is hampering emergence. Maintain a moist soil surface with small application till crop emerges.

Question: What does soil crusting cause?

Answer: stand loss

Kelley, L. (2009a). Irrigation Fact Sheet #8 - How to Get More from your Irrigation System. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/HGMIrrSys.pdf


Context: Instructions for Measuring Instantaneous Irrigation Application Rates: (1) Identify the areas of the irrigated system that has the application rate. (Fastest travel or shortest application time, further watered point from center not affected by the end gun on center pivots). (2) With the machine running at a known rate flag the point just ahead of the wetted front. (3) Record the amount of time in minutes and seconds from the first splash of water to hit the flag till the last splash, as the machine passes. (4) Convert your application to minute per one inch application. Example -- 20 minute to apply 0.4 inches of water = 50 minute/inch of irrigation

Question: What is the first step for measuring Instantaneous Irrigation Application Rates?

Answer: Identify the areas of the irrigated system that has the application rate

Kelley, L. (2007a). Irrigation Fact Sheet # 2 - Irrigation Application Instantaneous Rates. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/FactSheets/2_IrrigationApplicationRates1.30.pdf


Context: Drought symptoms in soybean: Soybean respond to drought stress by flipping their leaves over so the underside of the soybean leaf is turned up. A less obvious sign of drought stress in soybean is diminished vegetative growth which normally occurs prior to leaf flipping. In severe drought conditions, the leaf trifoliates will close or clamp together with the center leaflet being sandwiched between the outside leaflets.

Question: How do soybeans react to drought stress?

Answer: by flipping their leaves over so the underside of the soybean leaf is turned up

Licht, M., & Archontoulis, S. (2017). Influence of Drought on Corn and Soybean | Integrated Crop Management. https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2017/07/influence-drought-corn-and-soybean


Context: Specifically, stress associated with lack of available soil moisture during the pod development (R3-R4) and pod fill (R5-R6) stages of reproduction has the greatest impact on soybean yield. Soybean can use 0.25 inch of water per day during reproductive development. So, stress from lack of moisture between R3 and R4 may result in fewer pods and between R5 and R6 may result in decreased seed size.

Question: At what point is it best to irrigate soybean?

Answer: reproductive development.

Irby, T., & Gholson, D. (2022). Soybean Irrigation Initiation | Mississippi Crop Situation. https://www.mississippi-crops.com/2022/06/18/soybean-irrigation-initiation-2/


Question: What must be done if the MiWWAT assessment is orange (zone c) or red (zone d)?

Answer: try to modify location or well depth to reduce stream flow impact

Kelley, L. (2009c). Irrigation Fact Sheet #9 - Michigan Large Volume Water Use Requirements. https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/235/67987/lyndon/9largewaterwith.pdf