It is no secret that water is a limited resource, and the extent to which we manage, save and utilise it, will determine how long we have access to it. In a recent episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Netafim agronomist Charl van Reenen unpacked the importance on why farmers need to irrigate efficiently through precision irrigation.
As a city kid, Van Reenen made a point of it to go and visit his aunt and uncle who were avid farmers. Today, he passionately toils as an agronomist for Netafim in both the Western and Eastern Cape.
In this episode, Van Reenen explains how through precision irrigation, farmers can ensure that the maximum is gained from every drop of water used.
However, when it comes to precision irrigation, he says, “There is no one size fits all approach here. Every scenario needs to be investigated holistically, and plans drawn up accordingly.”
How farmers can save water
While climate and price-related hazards are beyond the control of farmers, effective irrigation can minimise the costs implications to farmers.
By implementing precision irrigation systems, farmers can increase their crop yields by up to 50%. Even more, precision irrigation can increase the efficiency of fertiliser use by up to 30%, while also minimising energy usage by as much as 35%.
Van Reenen also says in the podcast that modern farming, to him, is about using the latest technology and farming more efficiently.
“A modern approach is about making more efficient use of resources. Producers must use water, fertiliser, and other inputs efficiently to maximise the benefit,” he says.
In the episode, Van Reenen also discusses:
- Methods to farm profitably and sustainably; and
- The effect of water waste on the agricultural sector; and more.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).
Option 2: Click here listen on any Apple device.
Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
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