Thanks to Bryan Jones, some farmers in northern Florida are trying a new watering system. Jones recommended in an effort to use water more efficiently, have a larger and healthier crop yield, and become more environmentally conscious.
The new system uses a flat hose that fills up with water placed below the soil to irrigate the land. The method is uncomplicated, efficient, and so far successful. So much so that the state of Florida has partially funded some of the systems. Jones himself even got an environmental award from the Ag Commissioner of Florida, Adam Putnam.
This new and inexpensive system, known as the enhanced seepage irrigation system, can save multiple millions of gallons of water on one farm. Instead of watering all day, every day during the two-month peak season, this system generally only needs about eight hours of watering weekly. Benefits include saving on electricity, water and fertilizer, and yielding more crops and healthier crops because of less overwatering.
New technology allows the use of sensors to control flow that can be operated with computers and smartphones. Administrators at the Florida Department of Agriculture are excited about this system and are partnering with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida growers in a cost-sharing plan.
Some growers might have been leery about the new technology, but after seeing how the seepage system works for other farmers, more growers are following suit. Growers see a guy like Jones excited about it, successfully using it, and encouraging others to use it, and they have to come more likely to jump on board.
