Context: New legislation was enacted in Michigan to improve the management of the Great Lakes basin water resources to conform to the goals of the Great Lakes Compact and following agreements. The eight States and two Canadian Provinces that surround the Great Lakes have worked for over a decade to improve the management of water resources in the Great Lakes basin. Now that the Great Lakes Compact has become federal law (in October, 2008), proposed water diversions from the Great Lakes can be legally denied.

Question: What does the Great Lake Compact do?

Answer: proposed water diversions from the Great Lakes can be legally denied

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: If a producer has a site that exceeds the 70 gal/min threshold capacity, then they are responsible for collecting monthly water use data to file the annual water use reporting forms from 2004 and after. Reports are due April 1st from the previous year. Paper copies of water use reporting forms (when available from the State) will be available from most MSU Extension and USDA Farm Service Centers.

Question: Where can paper copies of water use reporting forms be found?

Answer: from most MSU Extension

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: 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 applications favor a system with low investment attributes?

Answer: a smaller number of large applications

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: Irrigation Fact Sheet # 2: Instantaneous Rates. The soils infiltration rate is the rate water can enter the soils 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. Estimates for water infiltration rates into soil types, may be found in the "physical and chemical properties of soils" section of the soil survey for your county.

Question: What is the maximum soil infiltration rate in Michigan?

Answer: 1 inch/2 hour

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: 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: When should I select a radial transect line?

Answer: for center pivot

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) Check irrigation tires: Check air pressure in each pivot tire. Refill to 20 pounds or the recommended level. Note tires that were near flat, and return a week later to see if they leaked. Expect tires to lose two or three pounds pressure each year if not re-aired annually.

Question: What is the first step in inspecting your irrigation tires?

Answer: Check air pressure in each pivot tire

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: (16) Chemigation valve and fertigation pump power supply: Many producers are investigating chemigation/fertigation as an option. Adding the equipment now makes it a far more viable option in the future. Make sure there is a functional chemigation valve on each water supply feeding into the system. Install interlocked injection pump power source. This will operate only when the irrigation water pump in on avoiding undiluted fertilizer from ever going into the irrigation system. For a diesel engine this may be as simple as running the injection pump from a v-belt off of the engine shaft.

Question: When is the only time when the interlocked injection pump is supposed to operate?

Answer: when the irrigation water pump in

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: The key to knowing the correct setting for the chemigation pump is to determine how many acres per hour the pivot will cover at the desired irrigation application depth or rate. Chemigation injection pumps are calibrated in gallons per hour (gph). So, if you know how much product you want to apply per acre -e.g., 10 gallons/acre - and how many acres the pivot will irrigate per hour - e.g., five acres/hour - then you will know how many gallons per hour the pump will need to deliver.

Question: What is the key to knowing the correct setting for the chemigation pump?

Answer: determine how many acres per hour the pivot will cover at the desired irrigation application depth or rate

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: Question: What are the disadvantages of irrigation? Excerpt: There are potential side effects also linked with irrigation such as: Water logging in the farms, Increase or decrease in pH levels of the soil, Poor aeration to the soil because of too much moisture, Polluted water can pollute the underground resources, Irrigation in cooler regions of the country can cause disease outbreaks due to stagnant water, Fertilizers can sometimes get into the source of water and cause eutrophication, If the water in the reservoir dries up due to evaporation, then it could result in a dry land. Using the river water entirely for irrigation can disturb the local ecology

Question: What causes the pollution of underground resources?

Answer: Polluted water

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


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: When does the landowner have a clean separation at the end of the agreement period?

Answer: If the improvement left by the lessee are all but the pivot or distribution 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


Context: A simple, inexpensive catch can stand can be built using: 1. 32 oz. disposable soda cup (Taco Bell cup) 2. 3 inch plastic drain pipe cut to 5 inch in length 3. 2 x 3 inch stud, cut to length to wedge into plastic drain pipe (drill hole partially through the chunk of wood to accommodate the fence post) 4. Steel (step-in) electric fence post

Question: How should you cut the studs used in building the catch can stand?

Answer: cut to length to wedge into plastic drain pipe

Kelley, L. (2020). Irrigation Fact Sheet #16 - Catch Can Stands for Rain Gauges and Uniformity Check for Evaluating Irrigation.


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: How do lease agreements take into account the lessee's responsibility for improvements to land to be irrigated?

Answer: transfer value of permanent improvement paid by the lessee to the landlord over the period of 5 to 10 years

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: Drought symptoms in corn: Corn leaf rolling is the primary symptom of drought. Greying of leaf tissue will occur under extremely severe conditions. The earlier leaf rolling occurs in the day or the longer the duration of leaf rolling the greater the stress the crop is under. Yield loss estimates are assumed when drought stress occurs for four consecutive days or more.

Question: What does corn leaf rolling mean?

Answer: the primary symptom of drought

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 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 are the units associated with EC?

Answer: millimhos per centimeter (mmhos/cm)

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


Context: (17) Stop barricades: Pivots that make partial circles often use stop barricades at the edge of the water area. Check stops for integrity, making sure that the height is still appropriate for the machine s turnoff mechanism. Manually operate the turn off arms on the pivot to make sure that they are functioning. Newer style stop barricades are designed to catch and spin the tire against the barricade allowing the safety system to shut the pivot down as a backup safety system.

Question: What is the goal of the safety system provided by the newer stop barricades?

Answer: to shut the pivot down

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: 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: How can I request a Site Specific Review from Michigan Department of Environmental Quality?

Answer: through the MiWWAT tool

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: 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 kind of soils have a faster infiltration rate?

Answer: sandy loams

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: 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 can help in evaporative cooling during pollination or other crucial times?

Answer: Small application

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


Context: 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 inches per day for all but a few extreme days.

Question: What is the expected daily application rate to irrigate most crops in Indiana and Michigan?

Answer: 0.25 inches 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: Infiltration rate decreases with increased wetting time. Therefore, the amount of water applied during each application affects the fraction of water that enters the soil and the fraction of runoff. Small pockets and depressions in the soil surface hold a volume of water at that location until the soil surface receives the water. Midseason cultivation or in-row soil surface modification (i.e. dammer/diker) increases the surface storage.

Question: What is the relationship between infiltration rate and wetting time?

Answer: Infiltration rate decreases with increased wetting time

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: 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 short hand for the dent development stage of corn?

Answer: R5

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 I turn the water off to my system in case of an emergency? Excerpt: Find your backflow assembly.''Above ground assemblies will be in a large, green/tan, rectangular box, more than likely located near your home or water meter.'Below ground assemblies will have a large, green, rectangular lid.' Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off.' green, rectangular lid.' Once found, turn either handle on assembly to the right to turn water off.'rs get the help they need quickly and easily.

Question: What do below ground assemblies look like?

Answer: large, green, rectangular lid

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


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 is it called when reduced yield must occur due to poor pollination?

Answer: forage or silage harvest

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: What kind of soils have a faster infiltration rate?

Answer: sands

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: 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 level of water use may be reached during extreme weather circumstances?

Answer: 0.31 to 0.33 inches 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 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 when short-term drought stress results in flower or pod abortion?

Answer: new flowers and pods will set when conditions improve

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: (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: When does maximum irrigation occur?

Answer: late July early August

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's 2006 water use legislation limited large volume water use to prevent an adverse resource impacted would be expected. 2008 water use legislation added a limit of no greater than 25% of a watersheds index flow (defined as the median average August flow) could be used by large volume water users. Developments of a screening tool to estimate each watershed low summer stream flow and the potential impact by large volume water use was started in late 2006 with release late 2008. The screening tool estimates how much water can be used in each watershed in Michigan without causing a detrimental effect to characteristic fish populations in the watershed. Michigan's Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool is available for use online.

Question: How can I use the Michigan Water Withdrawal Assessment tool?

Answer: online

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: 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 happens if the improvements left by the lessee are all but the distribution system?

Answer: em the landowner has a clean separation at the end of the agreement period

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: Michigan large quantity water withdrawals fall into three categories depending on date of construction: (1) Existing on February 28, 2006 ' Subject to water use reporting. (2) February 28, 2006 through July 8, 2009. (3) On and after July 9, 2009

Question: What is the second category that Michgian large quantity water withdrawals can fall into?

Answer: February 28, 2006 through July 8, 2009

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: 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: When do low initial costs compensate for high energy costs?

Answer: if a low total volume of water is applied annually.

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: (1a) Existing on February 28, 2006 ' Subject to water use reporting. These withdrawals from either wells or surface water are exempt from the new adverse resource impact standards. This is often termed as "Grandfathering", but these withdrawals may still be required to share the water resource with both other "grandfathered" users and with all new users since the legislation still hold Michigan's water use as a riparian right.

Question: Who do "grandfathered" withdrawals need to share water sources with?

Answer: other "grandfathered" users and with all new users

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: What justifies there being a raise in rent values greater than just recovering the investment in the water well?

Answer: the well allows a greater net profit with lower risk then dry land farming

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: Assembly directions - Option 2: 0.5 inch plastic pipe cut in 4 inch section can be drilled with 0.25 inch hole 1 inch from end. 13 inches plastic cable tie secured through the 0.25 inch hole creates a cup holder to fit on top of post. The total cost per unit is less than one dollar and requires only a saw and a drill. The catch can stand will allow data collection in fields with crops up to 30 inches tall. A 500 ml graduated cylinder is used to measure water volume. 500 ml graduated cylinders are available from science lab and beer maker supply stores on the web.

Question: For catch can stands, what type of cylinder is used to measure water volume?

Answer: 500 ml graduated cylinder

Kelley, L. (2020). Irrigation Fact Sheet #16 - Catch Can Stands for Rain Gauges and Uniformity Check for Evaluating 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 kind of infiltration do disc and moldboard tillage result in?

Answer: lowest rates

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 irrigation application rate will vary throughout the length of a center pivot irrigation system, with the highest instantaneous application rate at the end of the system furthest from the pivot point. 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: What kind of irrigation system provides uniform application rates throughout the entire system?

Answer: large gun hose traveler

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: Iowa soils hold 1.5-2.5 inches per foot of effective rooting depth. Root depth in Iowa has been found at depths greater than six feet. The importance of proper early root development cannot be underestimated. Crops with deep root systems explore a greater volume of soil are able to withstand drought conditions better.

Question: How much effective rooting depth do Iowa soils hold?

Answer: 1.5-2.5 inches per foot

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: Effects on vegetative soybean: Vegetative growth of soybean during drought is diminished. Drought stressed soybean are often shorter with smaller leaves due to a lack of water, nutrient availability, and nutrient uptake. Soybean root growth increases during drought conditions because plant carbohydrates are shifted to root growth. When adequate rainfall or soil moisture returns, vegetative growth will resume until the mid-seeding filling stage (R5.5). Under severe drought stress, soybean flowering may occur earlier than normal in an effort to produce seed before premature death.

Question: What kind of soybeans are often shorter and have smaller leaves?

Answer: Drought stressed soybean

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: 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: How must soils with a high clay content be irrigated?

Answer: with a trickle (often called drip) 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: 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: What can cause the instantaneous application rate to remain uniform?

Answer: as long as application time or forward travel of system is unchanged.

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: Question: Is a pressure regulator necessary to use with a drip system? Excerpt: Yes, drip irrigation or low volume irrigation systems have been designed to operate with lower pressures than sprinkler systems, so pressure regulators typically are a necessity. Operating pressure suggested for a drip system is around 25 PSI with the lower pressure start at 15 PSI and the higher pressure is 30 PSI. Using a pressure regulator will help to ensure your drip system will operate optimally

Question: What is the lower bound for suggested operating pressure for a drip system?

Answer: 15 PSI

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


Context: Water use reporting history. Two water use laws went into effect in 2004 in Michigan (PA 177 and PA 148). State water use reports are required by many farm operations by PA 148. Complaints from small well owners against large well owners will be investigated by the state (PA 177). These public acts reflect changes to the Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) and fall under the enforcement provisions contained therein.

Question: What is required by the PA 148?

Answer: State water use reports are required

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: Existing irrigation system application rate compared to soil infiltration rate. Evaluation of the irrigation application rate compared to soil infiltration rate on existing irrigation systems can be done by observation, taking into account all factors that affect the situation.

Question: What can taking into account all factors that affect the situation do for me when it comes to irrigation application rate and soil infiltration rates?

Answer: Evaluation of the irrigation application rate compared to soil infiltration rate on existing irrigation systems

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: 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 is considered to be a deposit into a checking account?

Answer: Rainfall

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: Infiltration rate decreases with increased wetting time. Therefore, the amount of water applied during each application affects the fraction of water that enters the soil and the fraction of runoff. Small pockets and depressions in the soil surface hold a volume of water at that location until the soil surface receives the water. Midseason cultivation or in-row soil surface modification (i.e. dammer/diker) increases the surface storage.

Question: What does the amount of water applied during each application affect?

Answer: the fraction of water that enters the soil and the fraction of runoff

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: Assembly directions - Option 1: The 2 x 3 inch stud chunks wedge into the base of the cut plastic drain pipe sections, and make the transition between the cup and post. Electric fence post should fit snug into the drill hole. A screw may be placed through the side of the plastic drain pipe into the 2 x 3 inch stud chunks. Electric fence post and cups can be stored and transported in separate stacks.

Question: When building a catch can test, how should you place the screw?

Answer: A screw may be placed through the side of the plastic drain pipe into the 2 x 3 inch stud chunks.

Kelley, L. (2020). Irrigation Fact Sheet #16 - Catch Can Stands for Rain Gauges and Uniformity Check for Evaluating Irrigation.


Context: P.A. 33 of 2006 amended Michigan's Natural Resources Protection Act as part 327 of 451. Changes included: (e) Groundwater withdraw location by latitude/longitude: Starting with the 2006 report, large scale water users will need to provide the latitude/longitude for the groundwater withdrawal location. This information may be provided by handheld GPS units or the groundwater mapping website. Providing the latitude/longitude location of withdrawal will allow mapping and analysis of effect on groundwater and stream base flow by withdraws in the watershed basin.

Question: What is the benefit of providing the latitude and longitude of a withdrawal site?

Answer: stream base flow by withdraws in the watershed basin

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: Both acts use the same definition for a "large capacity well". Large capacity wells are those with the capacity to withdraw 100000 gallons per day (70 gal/min) on average in any consecutive 30-day period. The combined capacity of more than one well at a site that is 100000 gallons or greater capacity/day (70 gal/min), also meets the large capacity well definition. Water use reporting also includes surface water withdrawals with single or combined capacity at a site of 100000 gal/day (70 gal/min) on average, in any consecutive 30-day period. All agricultural water uses (irrigation, cooling, animal watering, etc.) will apply to these laws. Well pumping capacity is included in the well log that should have been filed if the well was drilled after 1968 and are generally available at the local health department, from well drillers or at the MDEQ website.

Question: Where is the well pumping capacity included?

Answer: well log

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: 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 V12-VT development stage?

Answer: 2-5

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: (7) System leaks and bad sprinklers: Start the system up and pressurize it. Look for leaks and bad sprinklers, create a list of units in need of attention. Remember to check risers and other irrigation pipe areas that may need attention. Small leaks can saturate the soil and weaken force blocks used to hold underground pipe and plugs in place. Create a list of pressure and flow meter readings (if available) for each pumping station and pivot point. Knowing the starting pressure can help diagnose in-season irrigation problems in the future.

Question: What can help me diagnose in-season irrigation problems in the future?

Answer: Knowing the starting 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: Even when the lessee provides all off the irrigation equipment and the water supply, rent value should be expected to be higher than local dry land rent prices. Land rent prices for irrigated ground are often higher than the cost of installing irrigation spread over a seven or ten year schedule. In most situations the additional profit for establishing irrigation on rental property is evident or the lessee would not be seeking to proceed. This opportunity cost for irrigation may be as small as 10% of the rent value or as great as 200% added to local dry land rent values. The prevalence of high dollar irrigated specialty crops are a major factor in the variability.

Question: What would motivate a lessee to proceed with their role?

Answer: additional profit for establishing irrigation on rental property is evident

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: 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: Where can I find irrigation scheduling tools?

Answer: the website.

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: Question: Can I bury the drippers? Excerpt: We recommend having the drippers or ' in. dripline above ground or covered by mulch to prevent clogging. The drippers should be installed above grade, and if necessary secured by a stake.

Question: Why should I not bury the drippers?

Answer: to prevent clogging

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


Context: (7) Map your irrigation ideas. Acquire an aerial map of all the land in question for your irrigation projects. Excellent maps and tools are available from Google maps and others or your local USDA Farm Service Agency paper map and a pencil/compass will work. Identify large spaces of land you have available that are adjacent to or may share water sources. Identify major excavation needs such as woodlot or fence line removal. Identify drainage ditch and wet areas that will require modifications for the system to cross.

Question: What other tools are needed for mapping irrigation?

Answer: compass

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


Context: In some situations, irrigators have equipment that applies water faster than the water can infiltrate into the soil. In these situations, smaller application volumes will reduce the potential for runoff or uneven application to the roots. Sprinklers that provide larger wetted diameters will have less runoff issues. Matching sprinkler performance to field/soil conditions and leaving more crop residue on the soil surface are two methods to reduce potential runoff without increasing evaporative loss from increased number of applications.

Question: What can reduce the potential for runoff or uneven application to the roots?

Answer: smaller application volumes

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


Context: (1) Irrigation water requirements. Is water available in the quantities needed to irrigate? In Michigan and Indiana evaporation and plant water use from the soil are between 0.25 inch and 0.30 inch for several days each summer, systems that can provide 5 gal/acre irrigated will meet the 0.25 inch/day. Seven gal/acre irrigated is needed to provide 0.30 inch water requirements. This capacity will be require 24 hours per day 7 days per week continued pumping in time of drought.

Question: How many inches per day can a 7 gallon/acre irrigated system provide?

Answer: 0.30 inch

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.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: Which crops have the lowest returns from added investment in irrigation?

Answer: Small grains and soybeans

Kelley, L. (2022). Irrigation Fact Sheet #11- Checklist for Planning Irrigation Systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/upoads/files/11ChecklistForPlanningIrrigationSystems08.22.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: What is the benefit of visually inspecting each sprinkler when they are running?

Answer: will often find the major problems

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: (1a) Existing on February 28, 2006 ' Subject to water use reporting. These withdrawals from either wells or surface water are exempt from the new adverse resource impact standards. This is often termed as "Grandfathering", but these withdrawals may still be required to share the water resource with both other "grandfathered" users and with all new users since the legislation still hold Michigan's water use as a riparian right.

Question: What is "grandfathering"?

Answer: These withdrawals from either wells or surface water are exempt from the new adverse resource impact standards

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: 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: What happens by mid-June?

Answer: the crop is near its full rooting depth

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


Context: The inherent risk of injecting fertilizer into a water system dictates the need for backflow protection. Both Indiana and Michigan have resource protection rules that require the use of Chemigation valves for the protection of both surface and ground water sources. Chemigation valves create an air gap in the pipe line downstream from the pump when the pump is shut down. The air gap breaks the suction created by water retreat back to groundwater or surface water. Chemigation valves for most irrigation application are available from local irrigation dealers for less than $700. Installation cost is much less at the time of pump installation and should be included in almost all new irrigation pumping installations.

Question: What do resource protection rules require?

Answer: require the use of Chemigation valves for the protection of both surface and ground water sources

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: 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: In what case should I manage the field as normal?

Answer: If pollination is good

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 are the different types of irrigation? Excerpt: There are different types of irrigation systems depending on the soil type, water requirement, weather of the region etc. They are: Surface irrigation, Micro irrigation, Sprinkler irrigation, Sub irrigation

Question: What do the different irrigation types depend on?

Answer: soil type

Rivulis. (2023). Types of Irrigation: A Comprehensive Guide | Rivulis. https://www.rivulis.com/exploring-different-types-of-irrigation-and-their-applications/


Context: Increasing the amount of water that may enter the soil in a given period of time: The total application of water will also affect the fraction of the water that may enter the soil in a given time period. Small pockets and depressions in the soil surface will hold a volume of water at that location, until the soil surface can receive the water. Midseason cultivation or in-row soil surface modification (dammer/dikers) will increase the soils surface holding capacities.

Question: During what season is the holding capacity of the soil's surface supposed to increase?

Answer: Midseason cultivation

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: Determining the irrigation application rate is part of the planning process for new irrigation systems. It is measured by the average irrigation application rate from a particular point along the machine and is expressed as inches per hour. To determine application rate divide the amount of water applied by the elapsed time (from the first drop of water landing at a point in the field to the last drop hitting the point).

Question: In what units is the irrigation application rate expressed?

Answer: as inches per hour.

Kelley, L. (2014). 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: 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: When are system design capacities of greater than 6.5 gallons/minute/acre of irrigation needed?

Answer: in situations where crop management practice result in water application at rates faster than the soil infiltration rate

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: (11) End gun adjustments: Make sure you are covering every foot of planted ground possible and are not watering areas that are not cropped. Fine adjustments now can improve coverage area or keep you out of trouble if irrigation water ends up where it should not be. Avoid going overboard fine tuning, higher surface and ground water levels in the spring can give a little bigger coverage area in the spring that they will late summer for some systems.

Question: During which season, should you expect large coverage from ground water?

Answer: spring

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: 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 do low initial costs and a low total volume of water applied annually compensate for?

Answer: higher energy cost

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: 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: Does rainfall meet crop needs better or less in July?

Answer: 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: 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 inches per day for all but a few extreme days.

Question: What is the expected daily application rate to irrigate most crops in Michigan?

Answer: 0.25 inches 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


Question: How much does a chemigation valve cost?

Answer: less than $700

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: Instructions for completing the Evaluating Potential Irrigation Runoff Form. (4) Center pivots'Starting at the pivot point and progressing to the furthest reaches of the machine, pace or measure 50-foot increments along that line to identify observation points, or identify three equally spaced observation points under each span. Solid set or travelers'Start at one edge of the wetted area and progress to the opposite side, pace or measure 50-foot increments along that line to identify observation points.

Question: How many observation points should be under each span in a center pivot system?

Answer: three equally spaced

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: A simple, inexpensive catch can stand can be built using: 1. 32 oz. disposable soda cup (Taco Bell cup) 2. 3 inch plastic drain pipe cut to 5 inch in length 3. 2 x 3 inch stud, cut to length to wedge into plastic drain pipe (drill hole partially through the chunk of wood to accommodate the fence post) 4. Steel (step-in) electric fence post

Question: What should be the length of the drain pipe used to build a catch can stand?

Answer: 3 inch

Kelley, L. (2020). Irrigation Fact Sheet #16 - Catch Can Stands for Rain Gauges and Uniformity Check for Evaluating Irrigation.


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: When is the best management practice to apply nitrogen fertilizer to the corn to get the most efficient use of the fertilizer?

Answer: as close to the time the corn will use it

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: Infiltration rate is the quantity of water that can enter the soil in a specified time interval. Heavier soils such as clay and clay loam take water in at a slower rate than sands and sandy loams. Tillage method and surface compaction affect infiltration rate. Conservation tillage and no-till result in the highest infiltration rates while disc and moldboard tillage result in the lowest rates, particularly after several wetting events. Michigan soils have infiltration rates from as slow as one-half inch per hour to as fast as three inches per hour. Estimates for water infiltration rates are included in the Physical and Chemical Properties of Soils section of the soil survey for each county.

Question: What kind of soils take water in at a faster rate?

Answer: sandy loams

Kelley, L. (2014). 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: What other cup can you used if you do not have a soda cup to build a simple, inexpensive catch can test?

Answer: Taco Bell cup

Kelley, L. (2020). Irrigation Fact Sheet #16 - Catch Can Stands for Rain Gauges and Uniformity Check for Evaluating Irrigation.


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 traveler 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: 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 does the TDS of a water sample tell you?

Answer: the concentration of soluble salts in the water, which include all the cations and anions

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


Context: Question: What is gravity irrigation? Excerpt: Gravity system is a basic irrigation system consisting of an elevated reservoir, the pipe from the bottom of the reservoir to the irrigation system which can be either hand operated or battery operated to control the time and rate of water application. The reservoir of the gravity system is filled by harvesting rainwater.

Question: How can the pipe from the bottom of the reservoir be operated?

Answer: hand operated or battery operated

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


Context: The registration process also calls for an estimate of consumptive water use. Consumptive water use is the amount of water that is lost from the area of withdrawal. Since most water pumped for crop irrigation ultimately goes into evapotransporation, the consumptive use is estimated to be high or about 90%. Water used for harvest cooling is mostly retuned back to surface or groundwater so the consumptive use is estimated to be low or about 5 to 10%.

Question: What happens to most of the water pumped for crop irrigation?

Answer: goes into evapotransporation

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


Question: What SAR level in water is generally not recommended for continuous irrigation?

Answer: SAR value greater than 6

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


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 evapotranspiration?

Answer: a combination of soil water evaporation (E) and water used by the plant during transpiration

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: (5) Water registration. Irrigation water use almost always is considered a large volume water use (capacity to pump > 70 gal./min). In both Indiana and Michigan new installations require a registration. In Indiana this is handled by Indiana DNR. In Michigan you will need to work through the Michigan Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool to determine if your proposed water use is likely to cause a negative environmental impact. At the end of the process you will either be able to register online or may be required to request a site specific review by MDEQ. MDEQ site specific reviews may result in allocation of the water resulting in registration or the opportunity to bring together all large volume water users in the watershed to negotiate reducing use by existing water users to allow allocations for a new water use.

Question: Who handles irrigation registrations in Indiana?

Answer: Indiana DNR.

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


Context: Infiltration rate decreases with increased wetting time. Therefore, the amount of water applied during each application affects the fraction of water that enters the soil and the fraction of runoff. Small pockets and depressions in the soil surface hold a volume of water at that location until the soil surface receives the water. Midseason cultivation or in-row soil surface modification (i.e. dammer/diker) increases the surface storage.

Question: What is the result of dammers?

Answer: increases the surface storage

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: (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: How can you use sprinklers to find hidden leaks in your system?

Answer: Comparing pressure reading from sprinklers furthest from the source to the design specification

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: Effects on pollinating corn: Drought stress 7-10 days ahead of silking can result in delayed silk development. When combined with heat stress this delay could result in poor anthesis silking interval (ASI). Water stress during pollination (tasseling through silking) not only delays silking, but also reduces silk elongation, and if severe, impedes embryo development. With temperatures greater than 95oF, low humidity, and low soil moisture level, silks will desiccate or become non-receptive to pollen. Pollen grains may also be damaged from desiccation when they are released for tassel anthers. When temperatures greater than 100oF , pollen grains are killed. Drought stress during pollination ultimately results in poor pollination and fewer kernels per ear.

Question: What are the consequences of water stress during pollination of corn?

Answer: not only delays silking, but also reduces silk elongation, and if severe, impedes embryo development

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: (8) Consider fertigation to apply at least part of the nitrogen budgeted for the year. Split nitrogen applications reduce potential of early season loss during wet periods. Fertigation allows nitrogen application right when maximum nitrogen is used by the crop, with low labor and fuel use and no compaction of the soil. Make sure the system application is uniform and correct backflow safety valves and safety shut-downs are in place to protect the water supply for you and the neighbors.

Question: What does fertigation allow for?

Answer: nitrogen application right when maximum nitrogen is used by the crop,

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: (17) Stop barricades: Pivots that make partial circles often use stop barricades at the edge of the water area. Check stops for integrity, making sure that the height is still appropriate for the machine s turnoff mechanism. Manually operate the turn off arms on the pivot to make sure that they are functioning. Newer style stop barricades are designed to catch and spin the tire against the barricade allowing the safety system to shut the pivot down as a backup safety system.

Question: How do the newer stop barricades ensure backup safety?

Answer: catch and spin the tire against the barricade

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: (9) Get multiple bids. Use irrigation professionals to your advantage. Take your best ideas to at least two irrigation sales/design people. Many will have access to excellent mapping and planning software tools, plus they will have far more experience than most producers in irrigation system design. Compare potential designs on a cost per irrigated acre basis (for an average years irrigation). This process will help equalize investment in equipment with energy cost and labor.

Question: What will comparing potential designs on a cost per irrigated acre basis help me do?

Answer: equalize investment in equipment with energy cost and labor

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


Question: How long should the increments be along a line to identify observation points for a center pivot system?

Answer: 50-foot

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: (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: How does Michigan operate in terms of rights and obligations of water use?

Answer: riparian state for surface water use

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


Context: The key to knowing the correct setting for the chemigation pump is to determine how many acres per hour the pivot will cover at the desired irrigation application depth or rate. Chemigation injection pumps are calibrated in gallons per hour (gph). So, if you know how much product you want to apply per acre -e.g., 10 gallons/acre - and how many acres the pivot will irrigate per hour - e.g., five acres/hour - then you will know how many gallons per hour the pump will need to deliver.

Question: What can I figure out by knowing how much product you want to apply per acre and how many acres the pivot will irrigate per hour?

Answer: you will know how many gallons per hour the pump will need to deliver

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: Question: What do I do if my controller shows no display? Excerpt: Check to see if you have power going to the controller.' If not, check circuit breakers & GFI outlets in your home to see if they have been tripped.' If you have power, but no display, unplug controller for 2 minutes then plug back in.' If still no display,' see if there is a reset button on your controller - hold for 10 seconds.' Still no display?' Controller may have gone bad.

Question: What do I do if I run out of options with my controller showing no display?

Answer: reset button on your controller

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


Question: What does a higher EC mean?

Answer: more dissolved minerals in the water

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


Context: There are tremendous differences in cost of establishing irrigation. Several factors can lead to low water source cost (less than $15000). Factors leading to high water source cost (greater than $50000) are the reciprocal of what is listed:.(a) productive water tables are close to the surface (less than 40 feet). (b) riparian rights to a dependable surface water option adjacent to field. (c) ample three phase electric power is readily available near the pumping site. (d) system is designed for moderate to low pumping pressure. (e) Hills and Steep slopes may require higher pressures and large wetted areas to reduce chance of run-off.

Question: What kind of pumping in a system leads to low water source cost?

Answer: low pumping pressure.

MSU Extension. (2024). Irrigation Costs - Irrigation. https://www.canr.msu.edu/irrigation/Irrigation-Planning-/irrigation-costs


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: What happens to soybeans in severe drought conditions?

Answer: the leaf trifoliates will close or clamp together with the center leaflet being sandwiched between the outside leaflets

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: Option to purchase the farm in future: Seek professional help. A lawyer that works with land rental could advise you how to add these sections to your lease agreement

Question: What could a lawyer that works with land rental help me with?

Answer: advise you how to add these sections to your lease agreement

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 Scheduling Tools: Irrigation scheduling by accounting for changes in available soil moisture provides information on the timing and amount of water to apply to meet crop needs. "Checkbook" irrigation scheduling confirmed with soil moisture monitoring can improve irrigation scheduling decisions. Checkbook scheduling is discussed below.

Question: What type of irrigation scheduling can improve scheduling decisions?

Answer: "Checkbook" irrigation scheduling

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: Several factors can lead to low distribution equipment costs which can be achieved with the right combination of the following: total size of irrigated areas - the bigger the system the lower the cost (a) shape of the irrigated areas - 160 acre squares are hard to beat (b) three phase electric power is readily available near control panels (c) flat topography - hills and slopes require shorter pivot spans to maintain crop clearance.

Question: To maintain crop clearance, would you use a shorter or longer pivot spans?

Answer: shorter

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: New legislation was enacted in Michigan to improve the management of the Great Lakes basin water resources to conform to the goals of the Great Lakes Compact and following agreements. The eight States and two Canadian Provinces that surround the Great Lakes have worked for over a decade to improve the management of water resources in the Great Lakes basin. Now that the Great Lakes Compact has become federal law (in October, 2008), proposed water diversions from the Great Lakes can be legally denied.

Question: What have the surrounding regions of the Great Lakes been trying to do?

Answer: to improve the management of water resources in the Great Lakes basin

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: Permanent improvements. A repayment schedule may be included in the agreement for the recovery of investment dollars not recouped if early termination of the agreement is required. An annual cost of permanent improvements to the land needed for irrigation can be found by amortizing the dollar investment over the period of the contract at the current interest rate. The annual cost may be added to the dry land rent rate plus an additional opportunity cost representing the added income opportunity with irrigation to compensate landowner for permanent improvements to the land needed for irrigation.

Question: What can be added to the annual cost of the permanent improvements to the land needed for irrigation to represent the added income opportunity with irrigation for the landowner?

Answer: the dry land rent rate

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: 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: What does management of corn depend on?

Answer: the remaining yield potential

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 Fact Sheet # 2: Instantaneous Rates. The soils infiltration rate is the rate water can enter the soils 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. Estimates for water infiltration rates into soil types, may be found in the "physical and chemical properties of soils" section of the soil survey for your county.

Question: What is soils infiltration rate?

Answer: the rate water can enter the soils surface

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: 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: How often should reporting be done?

Answer: Annual reporting

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: P.A. 33 of 2006 amended Michigan's Natural Resources Protection Act as part 327 of 451. Changes included:  (b) Baseline Capacity (Rated Capacity): Producers have a one-time option to report, as part of their 2006 water use report, the available capacity of a system to withdrawal water to establish a "Baseline Capacity". 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 water use reporting form on the line listed as "Rated Capacity".

Question: How can you establish a baseline capacity?

Answer: Producers have a one-time option to report, as part of their 2006 water use report, the available capacity of a system to withdrawal water

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: 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: How should I manage the field when pollination of corn is good?

Answer: as normal

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: (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: How often should I check my gearboxes?

Answer: annually.

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: 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 one inch every 3 days in gallons/minute/acre?

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: (5) Water registration. Irrigation water use almost always is considered a large volume water use (capacity to pump > 70 gal./min). In both Indiana and Michigan new installations require a registration. In Indiana this is handled by Indiana DNR. In Michigan you will need to work through the Michigan Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool to determine if your proposed water use is likely to cause a negative environmental impact. At the end of the process you will either be able to register online or may be required to request a site specific review by MDEQ. MDEQ site specific reviews may result in allocation of the water resulting in registration or the opportunity to bring together all large volume water users in the watershed to negotiate reducing use by existing water users to allow allocations for a new water use.

Question: What capacity to pump is considered to be a large volume water use?

Answer: > 70 gal./min

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


Context: Michigan large quantity water withdrawals fall into three categories depending on date of construction: (1) Existing on February 28, 2006 ' Subject to water use reporting. (2) February 28, 2006 through July 8, 2009. (3) On and after July 9, 2009

Question: What is the first category that Michgian large quantity water withdrawals can fall into?

Answer: Existing on February 28, 2006 ' Subject to water use reporting

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: 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 increases as irrigation capacity increases?

Answer: System costs increase

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 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: When will vegetative development progress more rapidly?

Answer: drought stress is combined with heat 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: (16) Chemigation valve and fertigation pump power supply: Many producers are investigating chemigation/fertigation as an option. Adding the equipment now makes it a far more viable option in the future. Make sure there is a functional chemigation valve on each water supply feeding into the system. Install interlocked injection pump power source. This will operate only when the irrigation water pump in on avoiding undiluted fertilizer from ever going into the irrigation system. For a diesel engine this may be as simple as running the injection pump from a v-belt off of the engine shaft.

Question: How does one check their chemigation valve?

Answer: Make sure there is a functional chemigation valve on each water supply feeding into the system.

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


Question: What can result in a yield loss of 1-5 percent per day?

Answer: Continual leaf rolling of the plant in the weeks leading up to pollination

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: 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: How much is 6.5 gallos/minute/acre of irrigation equal to in inches per day?

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: Estimating Annual Irrigation Costs. Annual irrigation cost can be divided into two categories: annual cost of ownership and the annual cost of operation - mainly the cost of energy and labor. The annual cost of ownership is often estimated by the DIRTI (Depreciation, Interest, Repairs, Taxes, and Insurance) formula which spreads the actual cost of ownership of an equipment investment over its usable lifespan or investment period. A standard procedure is outlined on page 7 of MSU Extension Bulletin E-2131, "Custom Work Rates in Michigan". This formula can provide you with the annual cost of the original investment in equipment and improvements.

Question: What can you estimate with the DIRTI formula?

Answer: annual cost of the original investment in equipment and improvements.

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: Crop water use estimates can assist producers in irrigation decision making. A good source of E.T. rate charts for the most commonly irrigated crops is Irrigation Scheduling Checkbook Method from the University of Minnesota. Additional irrigation scheduling information can be found at the MSU irrigation website.

Question: Where can additional irrigation scheduling information be found?

Answer: at the MSU irrigation website

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