Assessment of Variable Rate Irrigation System for Optimized Water Productivity

Climate change, extreme weather events, and irregular rainfall patterns have made it inevitable to supplement irrigation needs in rainfed regions such as Prince Edward Island (PEI). This study aims to develop variable rate irrigation (VRI) system to supplement crop water requirements on a need basis for crops in PEI. This project will develop, implement, and assess the VRI technology in water-stressed areas to optimize water resource allocation with site-specific irrigation. In the first phase of this project, VRI maps will be delineated using soil moisture probes and Soil Water and Topography (SWAT) tool developed by Croptimistic Technology Inc., Naicam, SK, Canada. Central pivot irrigation system equipped with variable rate irrigation controllers will then use VRI maps to optimize water use efficiency. This project strives to develop sustainable irrigation strategies for the agriculture production system to optimize irrigation efficiency.

Faculty Supervisor:

Aitazaz Farooque

Student:

Partner:

Croptimistic Technology Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Agriculture; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Prince Edward Island

Program: