With this area of Georgia receiving 52 inches of rain annually, why is there still a need for irrigation?

The majority of rainfall does not occur with precise timing or amount during critical growth stages for the crops, so farmers supplement any natural rainfall with irrigation to ensure their crops’ health and yields. Agriculture is the chief economy of this region, producing over $2 billion in farm-based revenue and approximately $70 billion statewide.

The Flint River (and its tributaries) is also home to an array of biological diversity, including federally endangered mussel species. During times of drought and intensive agricultural irrigation, the streamflow of the river and streams can be reduced to harmful levels for these species as well as many others dependent upon a healthy and generous flow of the water throughout the year. This environmental interest coupled with the economic significance of agriculture bring agricultural water conservation and efficiency to the forefront of southwest Georgia’s priorities.

Persistent droughts, energy costs, urban expansion, and interstate litigation are collectively threatening irrigation water supplies in the Southeast. Conservation of agricultural water is critical for sustaining the economic development of rural farming areas. University of Georgia Extension estimates that 1 inch of water costs $12 per acre-inch through overhead sprinkler application. Growers are interested in precision irrigation applications that allow for less water use while maintaining optimum yield.

Examples of some conservation practices implemented at SIRP and in the surrounding basin are as follows: