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ADVANCING ADOPTION OF SOIL MOISTURE SENSORS THROUGH ON-FARM TRAINING AND DEMONSTRATION

Natural Resources/Aquaculture

Alex Deason
Agriculture and Natural Resource Extension Agent
Mississippi State University
Indianola

Abstract

In recent years declining water levels in Mississippi River Valley alluvial aquifer has producers, researchers, and governing bodies discussing the sustainability of the resource. Research has shown that soil moisture sensors can help producers conserve water and irrigate less while maintaining or even improving yield and profit. However, hesitation to adopt soil moisture sensors due to educational and financial barriers remain common in Mississippi and nationwide. One-on-one guidance from Mississippi State University Extension professionals over multiple seasons can assist Mississippi producers in gaining the skills and confidence necessary to adopt soil moisture sensors on their own. To empower producers to integrate soil moisture sensors fully into their farming operations, an agent-led, three year on-farm education program was launched. County Extension agents were educated on telemetry-enabled soil moisture monitoring systems and technical support on how to operate and make informed irrigation decisions. The agents provide season-long training, giving hands-on training and troubleshooting to build confidence in the use of moisture sensors. At the end of each season producers and agents meet to review the previous season data and gauge the knowledge gained through the season. Agents gradually decrease their involvement throughout the second and third year with day-to-day sensor data interpretation until the participants become active and capable independent users of soil moisture sensors. In 2022, 33 producers were in the program and with seven of those being three-year participants. A post-training evaluation was given to each participant. Evaluation data not only indicate a large percentage of participants intend to adopt soil moisture sensors, but 100% of participants stated that they increased their knowledge and trust in soil moisture sensors, which have been shown to be top barriers in adoption. All participants also intend to adopt soil moisture sensors into their operation while around 30% had already adopted prior to the completion of the program. The program aims to help growers use less water while maintaining productivity. This supports the farm’s financial standing and reinforces the producer’s understanding in their role of protecting their water supply and groundwater resources.

Authors: Alex Deason, Drew Gholson, Dillon Russell, Himmy Lo, Drew Wilson, Michael Pruden, Chad Hankins
  1. Alex Deason Agriculture and Natural Resource Extension Agent, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38751
  2. Drew Gholson Extension Specialist, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38776
  3. Dillon Russell Extension Associate, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38776
  4. Himmy Lo Extension Professor, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38776
  5. Drew Wilson Extension Agent, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38646
  6. Michael Pruden Extension Agent, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 38614
  7. Chad Hankins Extension Agent, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 39095