Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID ND_2023_Jia_2

Automated irrigation for commercial production of watermelon, squash, and muskmelon cultivars in Oakes

Institute: North Dakota
Year Established: 2023 Start Date: 2023-09-01 End Date: 2024-05-15
Total Federal Funds: $2,500 Total Non-Federal Funds: $2,782

Principal Investigators: Xinhua Jia

Project Summary: Growing high value specialty crops like watermelon, muskmelon and squash in North Dakota can be challenging due to cold weather and short growing season. Temperature and water supply are the two main factors that limit their commercial production. To address these challenges, clear plastic is used to increase soil temperature and extend the growing season, and drip irrigation is used to apply water efficiently. Precise water scheduling is crucial for drip irrigation, which can be managed remotely and automatically with a smart water controller based on real-time soil moisture measurement. This method results in optimal water application, high crop yield, better fruit quality, and reduced time and labor demands. It is important to continue exploring and adopting new technologies and practices that can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions and remain competitive in the industry.