Advanced Irrigation Management Conserves Resources and Improves Yield

Advanced Irrigation Management Conserves Resources and Improves Yield

Our irrigation management system allows us to irrigate at the right time with the right amount of water. That results in energy savings and a maximization of water usage, which is a crucial resource. - Murilo Moura de Paula, Executive Director, São José da Terra Roxa group in Selvíria Brazil has become a leader in adopting sustainable farming practices. The state of Mato Grasso do Sul is a prime example of how the country is implementing advanced systems to optimize resources while increasing production of crops and livestock. By adopting more sustainable practices, producers are using natural resources more efficiently, lowering input costs and boosting economic growth in the area. For producers like the São José da Terra Roxa group in Selvíria, the need to increase yields while using less energy and water is critical. The operation spans 6,000 acres in Mato Grosso do Sul near the banks of the Parana River and includes, 5,000 of irrigated acres that rely on 23 Valley_® center pivots equipped with advanced technology, and Scheduling by Prospera^®, a Valley brand for more efficient irrigation management. An early-adoptor of irrigation technology, São José da Terra Roxa group implemented solutions from Prospera, a Valmont^® company and saw a 10-15% reduction in water use—in addition to higher yields. According to Murilo Moura de Paula, Executive Director, São José da Terra Roxa group in Selvíria, the operation utilizes technology from Valley and Prospera to monitor and more efficiently manage its irrigated acres. The fully integrated solution begins with 23 Valley Center pivots, Valley_® Field Commander and Valley Crop Link^® to monitor and control equipment from virtually anywhere. Further maximizing their use of resources, the Terra Roxa group also utilizes a Valley weather station and Plant Insights to better understand both soil and plant conditions. Access to data in real-time allows the operation to utilize Scheduling by Prospera and Valley ICON^® smart control panels. For example, in rainfall events, pivots can be turned off remotely to conserve water. Scheduling also provides irrigation recommendations and scientific data about the soil and crop type and helps the grower make informed decisions regarding when and where to treat the crop with herbicide or fertilizer. Creating a fully integrated irrigation management solution allows farmers to gain deeper knowledge of what is happening across their fields without needing to make multiple trips. The remote technology empowers them to make informed decisions and control equipment from home or their vehicle, which saves even more time and resources. According to Moura de Paula, The main advantage of irrigation scheduling is our ability to carry out near-perfect management, which results in maximum plant growth. Having advanced knowledge and remote control of their center pivots allows the Terra Roxa Group to reduce energy and water usage and lower its carbon footprint. Irrigation scheduling through Prospera further improves lives by increasing yields approximately 18% to help feed more people across the globe. This solution further supports the producers’ proactive approach to implementing advanced technology, making the São José da Terra Roxa group a state yield leader on irrigated acres.