U.S. Water News Online
WHEATLAND, Wyo. -- Federal funds have been approved for a
project designed to evaluate ways to reduce the amount of nitrate
that leaches into groundwater as a result of agricultural
irrigation.
The Geringer Brothers/Simplot Site Specific Crop Management
Project will be implemented over the next three years on land north
of Wheatland, according to Joe Geringer, who along with his brothers
Fred and Leonard, will manage the project.
The $292,700 project will be funded, in part, by the Environmental
Protection Agency ($161,200), as well as in-kind donations and funds
provided by the Geringer brothers -- a total of $131,500.
The project will attempt to demonstrate that site-specific crop
management can increase net returns for farming operations while
protecting groundwater. The objective is to obtain information on
irrigation practices and its effect on groundwater.
The Geringers, who are cousins of Gov. Jim Geringer, say project
plans call for use of various technologies to: 1) prevent surface
run-off or leaching of nitrates; 2) perform a cost-benefit analysis
of the system as it relates to agricultural production, and 3)
enhance wetlands. Center pivot sprinklers will be used to control the
amount of water put on fields planted in sugar beets, malt barley,
and spring wheat.
Project planners say they hope this project will help farmers make
better decisions on irrigation methods and farming practices.
Platte County Extension Educator Jim Freeburn said the project is unique in its use of advanced technology. "By using the latest technology, from satellite imagery to computer application of fertilizer and pesticides, we will truly have the 'demonstration project' that this project has set out to be," Freeburn said.
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