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Course Syllabus

AGTM 2500 Irrigation Management

  • Division: Business and Applied Tech
  • Department: Business
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 3; Lecture: 2; Lab: 2
  • Semesters Offered: Spring
  • Semester Approved: Fall 2023
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Fall 2028
  • End Semester: Summer 2029
  • Optimum Class Size: 20
  • Maximum Class Size: 25

Course Description

This course will introduce students to the management and technology used in sprinkler irrigation systems. Emphasis will be on pivot maintenance and operation of Variable Rate (precision) Irrigation. Water requirements, water resources, application methods, types and selection of irrigation equipment, application time and rates, irrigation well principles and operation, maintenance and repair, costs, and return will be covered.

Justification

Water, and issues surrounding water, have always been and will continue to be at the forefront of agriculture, particularly in the Western United States. Efficient use and management of water resources is the most crucial factor in modern-day agriculture. Demand for water will continue to rise. It is critical that students understand and learn to apply principles to help manage this resource. Technology such as Variable Rate Irrigation (VRI), precision or prescriptive irrigation, is leading the way in conservation and management of water. Students will understand water conservation and management using the latest irrigation technology.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will understand the effects of irrigation on crop production.
  2. Understand local sources of water.
  3. Identify crop moisture needs
  4. Compare different methods of irrigation.
  5. Select proper irrigation systems.
  6. Calculate costs and returns

Course Content

Course objectives will be accomplished by providing students with the following learning experiences: Provide a clear and practical understanding of irrigation; Provide an understanding of selecting proper irrigation systems; Provide an understanding of water resources; Provide an understanding of application times and rates; Provide an understanding of costs and returns; Identify different types of Variable Rate Irrigation systems, components, and software to preserve water; Provide hands-on experiences with equipment and irrigation scheduling methods.