AG VALLEY COOP
Water Resources
SOME ADVANTAGES OF SDI
There are several distinct advantages to using SDI in Nebraska and the plains states. With the advent of water allocations and flow restrictions due to the drought we have become more conscious of efficiencies and production as it relates to input costs and profits.
SDI allows the grower to be a true no till operator. Irrigating with Sub-Surface Drip continually conditions the soil eliminating the need to plow or deep chisel. Input costs are reduced considerably by reducing high energy operations and trips through the field.
One of the most obvious reductions is in pumping costs. Because of the high efficiency, ( 95%+ ), the well will run about 1/3 - 1/2 as much as with gravity irrigation. Fuel costs are a significant part of operating irrigation systems.
Yields are much more uniform and 100% of the irrigated acres will produce at
the optimum rate. SDI also allows the Grower to use less fertilizer for the same yield.
Fertilizer can be applied through the tape at the most beneficial time and spoon fed to the plant. This eliminates Photo-degradation and Flash off that is experienced with conventional methods of application.
SDI systems are not effected by storms or wind, there by eliminating most insurance related costs.
SDI efficiencies are not effected by wind blowing or high temperature. Both gravity and pivot irrigation efficiencies are greatly effected by weather conditions. As compared to gravity irrigation labor costs are reduced by 80-90%.
There is also an under-stated benefit to wild life. Upland game birds will flourish in an SDI environment. It offers high humidity and excellent cover. Since we aren’t flooding the row or raining cold ground water on the nest, Pheasant and Quail populations will increase significantly.
SDI does represent a significant investment, but when all of the costs are considered, it will pay for it’s self rather quickly. Most systems will pay for themselves in 7 years or less with reduced input costs. If increased yield is considered, it will pay back much quicker.