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We are exploring the extent to which Ohio growers might benefit
from increased use of drip irrigation. We have discussed the potential with
Ohio academics, extension, and Ohio and Israeli irrigation companies.
Israel is the world’s most advanced user of agricultural irrigation.
Half of all agricultural land is irrigated. Israelis pioneered drip
irrigation, automatic valves and controllers, media and automatic filtration,
low discharge sprayers and mini-sprinklers, and compensated drippers
and sprinklers. Israel made its agricultural mark from squeezing the
most from marginal land and very limited water resources. Israeli technologies
are increasing yields and quality of many niche crops, including crops
grown in colder climates, not just in deserts.
Drip usage in Ohio is largely on high-value crops. All Ohio greenhouses
use drip irrigation. More Ohio farms are seeking to use the technique
to grow specialty or niche crops such as strawberries, pumpkins, peaches,
wine grapes, blueberries, and various vegetables. Crops that need water
for fruit sizing in July and August are most likely to benefit from
its use. OSU Extension receives an average of 50 requests for information
on drip irrigation per year, regardless of rainfall, so they see growth
potential. They also believe that more Ohio farms could benefit from
increased irrigation, especially supplemental irrigation, and fertigation
(fertilizer application through drip irrigation systems). Ohio has had
extreme years for the past five growing seasons (drought, normal rainfall
and well-distributed, above-normal rainfall). Good information and technical
assistance is important. Ohio growers could also use economic information
on how it might benefit them. Some corn growers have expressed interest
in surface and subsurface irrigation—while not economical yet,
it may be for pharmaceuticals. Also, participants in OSU Extension Master
Gardener clubs and small-scale farmers have shown more interest in drip
irrigation every year.
In the short term, we are considering inviting Israeli companies such
as Netafim Drip Irrigation to
conduct seminars in Ohio. In the longer term, we're exploring
the possibility of establishing demonstration plots and an Israeli
greenhouse. Several OSU county extension
agents are interested in setting up a series of demonstrations
with some applied research using drip irrigation, mostly tape.
OSU Extension is interested in opportunities that might be
pursued in the interests of both Ohio and Israel, especially
in research and demonstration. Possible venues for workshops
and booths include the Ohio Fruit and Vegetable Growers next congress
in January 2006, and demonstrations and one-day events.
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