Agricultural water management strategies expand in Oregon and South Dakota

Agricultural sectors in Oregon and South Dakota are exploring new methods to manage water resources amid drought conditions and rising energy costs.

In Oregon, Energy Trust is assisting farmers and irrigation districts in upgrading aging infrastructure. These improvements include installing variable frequency drives (VFDs), new sprinkler systems, and efficient irrigation controls. For example, Jimenez Farms in Umatilla County reported a 33% reduction in energy use and a 13% reduction in water use following upgrades. Additionally, the Langell Valley Irrigation District implemented a VFD project expected to save over 21,000 kWh of electricity annually.

In South Dakota, experts at the Eastern South Dakota Water Conference highlighted “drainage water recycling” as a method to mitigate flooding and pollution. This technique involves capturing water from underground perforated pipes, known as drain tile, and storing it in ponds or wetlands for later irrigation use. Proponents suggest this practice could reduce reliance on groundwater, decrease farm-chemical runoff, and improve crop yields during droughts.