The University of Minnesota Extension will be offering the Minnesota Irrigator Program at the Sherburne History Center in Becker, MN April 2, 9 and 16.

Over the past few years, efficient agricultural irrigation has become a hot topic in Minnesota. In regions with sandy soil and limited precipitation, irrigation is a key component of production agriculture. Matching irrigation with crop water use has become more important to maintain profit and maximize groundwater resources. An understanding of the plant-water-soil relationship, proper irrigation system maintenance, and use of irrigation scheduling are just some of the tools irrigators use for cost-effective crop production. If you want to improve your irrigation, use efficiency, the University of Minnesota Extension is offering the Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP) to provide you with the information you need to make irrigation decisions in 2025. 

This 3-day event will be held in person at the Sherburne History Center at 10775 27th Ave SE Becker, MN 55308 on April 2, 9 and 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A light breakfast and a warm lunch will be provided. Programming will include a discussion of the basics of irrigation, irrigation systems, how to use soil moisture sensors on your farm, irrigation scheduling, and special topics like variable rate irrigation and remote sensing.  

In addition to learning about the most effective irrigation management, MIP attendance is one of the requirements to attain the Irrigation Endorsement of the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP). To achieve certification, participants need to attend all three days of the course. Certified farms will receive the endorsement with proof of MIP attendance and the adoption of a new irrigation practice or scheduling method on-farm. Tuition reimbursement is also available for MAWQCP farms. Continuing education credits (CEUs) for Certified Crop Advisers will also be offered for this program. 

The University of Minnesota Extension will be offering this program at rotating locations throughout the state in the coming years. Participation is capped at 25 individuals (20 growers and 5 agency staff), so be sure to register today! The cost of this 3-day program is $75. Light breakfast and lunch are provided. For more information and to register, go to www.extension.umn.edu/courses-and-events/minnesota-irrigator-program.

Article contributed by UM Extension