2020 NARCDC Grant - Soil Moisture Sensors

Studying the rewards of agricultural and conservation technologies in historically undeserved farms.

In 2020, Golden Triangle RC&D was awarded a grant from the National RC&D council to test soil moisture in parts of Southwest Georgia. Soil moisture conditions are influenced by the weather, row density, crop patterns, and more. During this period, the plants are continuously changing and adapting to the environment. The plant’s roots and shoots grow in soil most advantageous to growth. In the past, farmers collected soil moisture and water conditions from the field by scouting and collecting samples. Use of soil moisture monitors will help farmers adjust irrigation needs to these ever-changing conditions with real-time data monitoring. This project will place multiple soil moisture monitors on farms across Southwest Georgia. These monitors and the data they collect will be used to provide a base for technical training and assistance to additional farms in the area. Golden Triangle RC&D will be partnering with The University of Georgia Extension offices and Brad Jager of Jager Pro to provide the technical resources needed for this project. Soil monitor instillation began in June 2020, testing in crops of Corn, Peanuts, Cotton and Soy.