University of Georgia
UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences C.M. Stripling Irrigation Research Park
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Our Work and Priorities

The University of Georgia created the Stripling Irrigation Research Park (SIRP) to be an innovative irrigation research and education center. The park is an easily accessible facility to offer assistance for farmers in irrigation management as well as to provide general information to the public regarding the role of water in the regional economy.

Scientists, engineers, and extension specialists collaborate with the staff and administration of the park to define crop water needs and improve food, feed, and fiber production using efficient irrigation methods. Industry partners are able to test equipment and water conservation strategies for Georgia under the objective eye of the college’s researchers. SIRP provides educational opportunities and demonstrations for farmers, irrigation companies, as well as students in local technical colleges and universities. Additionally, we often collaborate with the local Mitchell County Extension Office staff. 

Agricultural water conservation is at the forefront of topics in southwest Georgia with the increasing frequency of drought periods and increasing water demands throughout the Apalachicola – Chattahoochee – Flint (ACF) River Basin. Thus, the mission of the Stripling Park has included conservation ideals since its inception. With the ongoing “water wars” over water flow and demand in the ACF River Basin, maximizing efficiency and conservation efforts in this region has become a priority.

About us


We investigate the latest production and technological practices, striving for producer profitability and sustainability.
Research and Education Centers (RECs) are hubs for innovation and discovery that address the most critical issues facing agricultural production throughout the state. Ultimately, our findings are shared with stakeholders through the extension and outreach efforts of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Agricultural Research Centers in Georgia Find your local county Extension Office

CAES News

Blossom end rot on tomato, due to nutrient deficiency CAES News
Keeping your tomato plants healthy: Managing common pests and diseases of homegrown tomatoes 08/06/25
We have already ranked the best tomato cultivars for stacking high on a slice of bread and covered the essentials of pruning and staking to tame those wild, vining plants. Now comes the gritty middle of the growing season — when the heat bears down and the battle against pests, diseases and plant stress ensues. Whether you have only just started harvesting or are already preparing for a second planting to carry you into fall, Georgia’s hot, humid climate creates the perfect environment for problems.
UGABeeLab hiveentrance CAES News
Scientists identify high viral loads, mite resistance as key factors in recent honey bee losses 08/04/25
Earlier this year, commercial beekeepers across the U.S. faced unprecedented winter colony losses, with some reporting over 60% of hives perishing — more than double the typical overwintering loss rates. Hobbyists and sideliners — those who keep bees as a secondary source of income — also saw catastrophic declines, with total economic impacts to beekeepers estimated at over $600 million. Now, scientists are linking the losses to high viral loads and mite resistance as they work to develop solutions to protect the industry moving forward.
See More News

CAES Events

This year’s field day will cover a variety of topics, including row crops. The event will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with the tour starting at 9:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided. Pesticide credits will be available. To RSVP, or for any questions, contact superintendent Scott Rogers at (229) 591-5158or by email at swgeorgia@uga.edu.
Aug 13
8:30AM - 2:00PM Southwest Georgia Field Day Southwest Georgia Research and Education Center, Plains, GA
This course will teach participants how to develop and document a food safety management program based on the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) for their specific operations.
Aug 25
08/25 1:00PM - 08/28 5:00PM Virtual Packinghouse HACCP
A one-day course for produce growers and packers who fall under FSMAs Produce Safety Rule.
Sep 09
8:00AM - 5:00PM Virtual Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training This will be held via ZOOM.
A one-day course for produce growers and packers who fall under FSMAs Produce Safety Rule.
Nov 20
8:00AM - 5:00PM Virtual Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training This will be held via ZOOM.