By Andi Anderson
Farmers across Michigan are facing increasing challenges as dry weather conditions place stress on crops and water resources. With July 2026 ranking among the driest months on record in many parts of the state, efficient irrigation has become more important than ever for agricultural success.
To address these challenges, researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) are developing innovative tools that help growers apply water more effectively. These technologies are designed to improve crop production, reduce operating costs, and support environmental sustainability.
One of the leading researchers in this effort is Younsuk Dong, Assistant Professor and Irrigation Specialist in the Michigan State University Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering. His work focuses on creating affordable and accessible irrigation technologies that can be used across a variety of crops and farming operations.
Proper irrigation management is critical for farmers. When crops do not receive enough water, soil moisture levels drop and plant growth slows. On the other hand, applying too much water can create additional problems, including increased disease pressure, nutrient loss, and unnecessary expenses. Both situations can reduce yields and impact farm profitability.
The importance of irrigation is evident throughout Michigan agriculture. Laura Campbell, Senior Conservation and Regulatory Relations Specialist with Michigan Farm Bureau, highlighted the value of irrigation for the state's farming sector.
“Many farmers in Michigan recognize the value of supplementing rainfall with irrigation to increase profitability and protect against seasonal weather challenges,” said Laura Campbell, senior conservation and regulatory relations specialist with Michigan Farm Bureau. “Our farmgate value for irrigated land shows this. While we irrigate less than 10% of Michigan agricultural land, it produces nearly 40% of our farmgate value.
“Irrigation equipment and the power to run it are big investments, so MSU’s work to help farmers make the most of their irrigation is very important even in a state with less challenge in water availability than states in the western U.S. Additionally, because we are surrounded by the Great Lakes, farmers have important considerations to protect water quality as well as their own pockets by not wasting inputs like pesticides or fertilizers, and efficient irrigation helps with that.”
A major innovation from Dong and his team is the Low-Cost Monitoring System (LOCOMOS). The system uses field sensors to measure soil moisture, leaf wetness, and other environmental conditions. Software analyzes the information and provides irrigation recommendations through a mobile application.
By using real-time data and precision technology, MSU researchers are helping farmers make smarter irrigation decisions. These advancements can improve crop health, increase resource efficiency, reduce costs, and support the long-term sustainability of Michigan agriculture.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education