The video discusses the irrigation management techniques used by Dave Bishop and his family at D M Bishop Farms in Barrons, Alberta, to optimize crop yield and farm profitability. Key practices include soil sampling, crop rotation, efficient water use through low-pressure systems and advanced technologies, and the potential future integration of variable rate irrigation with real-time sensors to further enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Profitable Practices: Farm Solutions for People, Profit, and the Planet

Welcome back to another episode of Profitable Practices! I’m Kara Oosterhouse, and in this episode, we journey to Barrons, Alberta, to catch up with Dave Bishop of D.M. Bishop Farms. Dave and his family run both an irrigation and dry land farm. They have implemented advanced irrigation management techniques to maximize their irrigation efficiency and profitability. Let’s dive into our conversation.

The Importance of Irrigation in Farming

Dave Bishop emphasizes that irrigation is the most crucial part of their farm.

“Irrigation is our most important part of the farm. It’s something that we know we can get guaranteed water most years.”

Despite some water issues earlier this year, the farm is back on track, ensuring that their crops receive the necessary hydration. Dave highlights the importance of controlling irrigation to mitigate the unpredictable nature of Mother Nature.

Effective Irrigation Management Techniques

 

Crop Rotation and Soil Sampling

One of the fundamental practices at D.M. Bishop Farms is crop rotation. They use a four-year rotation system that includes oil seeds, cereals, pulses, and forage.

“We always do soil samples to see what actually is there for nutrients in the ground.”

Soil sampling helps determine the nutrients available and what needs to be added for each crop. This process ensures that each crop gets the right amount of nutrients, optimizing growth and yield.

Irrigation Scheduling

Dave explains the importance of scheduling irrigation based on soil moisture levels.

“You auger it down, take your soil sample, and if you can make a bit of a ribbon like that, it’s pretty well at a hundred percent.”

By assessing soil moisture at various depths, they can decide the exact amount of water needed, avoiding over or under-watering.

Enhancing Efficiency with Modern Techniques

 

Low Pressure Irrigation and Pressurized Pipelines

The farm utilizes low-pressure irrigation systems and pressurized pipelines, making their irrigation highly efficient.

“We have low-pressure irrigation; we have a pressurized pipeline, so whatever’s in there, we use it. It doesn’t go out the other end.”

This method ensures minimal water loss, even in windy conditions.

Nozzle and Sprinkler Technology

Dave’s farm employs advanced sprinkler heads that reduce water drift during windy conditions.

“We have nozzles on the sprinkler heads on our pivots that are low drift, so you don’t get a lot of drift in the wind.”

This technology increases irrigation efficiency, ensuring that more water reaches the crops.

Fertigation

They also practice fertigation, where fertilizer is applied through the irrigation system.

“We quite often will put fertilizer down with the water—fertigating.”

This method ensures that nutrients are delivered directly to the root zone, enhancing crop growth and yield.

Future Innovations in Irrigation

Dave is excited about upcoming technologies that will further improve irrigation efficiency.

“They’re working on sensors that’ll be able to read the moisture content in the ground so when the pivot’s going around, it’ll actually vary your watering rate.”

These sensors will provide real-time data, allowing for precise irrigation based on current soil moisture levels.

The Economic Impact of Irrigation

Irrigation plays a significant role in the local economy of Southern Alberta.

“A large percentage of the economy in Southern Alberta is derived from irrigation.”

High-value crops like sugar beets, vegetables, corn, and potatoes thrive under irrigation, supporting local processing plants and providing employment opportunities.

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In conclusion, effective irrigation management is vital for the sustainability and profitability of farms like D.M. Bishop Farms. Through crop rotation, soil sampling, advanced irrigation technology, and fertigation, farmers can optimize their water use and enhance crop yields. As new technologies emerge, the future of irrigation looks promising, promising even greater efficiency and productivity.

Stay tuned for more insights and practical tips on Profitable Practices!