Managing Water for Crop Production

The production of crops is the heart of Nebraska’s economy. Water is essential to all plant growth. Thus Nebraska’s economy relies on a plentiful supply of water to produce crops – in both rainfed and irrigated environments. Several factors involved with producing crops interact with either water supply or water quality issues - or both.

Crop management hinges on the availability of water. For example, optimal plant populations will vary depending on the quantity of water available during the growing season.

Nutrient management, or soil fertility, will vary in much the same manner. Nutrient management will also have an impact on the quality of water resources – both surface and groundwater.

Pesticides need to be managed in such a way to optimize pest control while minimizing pesticide loss to the environment.

Various soil and water management practices exist which will minimize soil loss and evaporative water loss, while providing a good environment for crop establishment.

Throughout Nebraska there are a variety of demonstration projects which illustrate how to put various practices in place to maximize profitability while at the same time use water resources efficiently and protect water quality.

Information presented within the crop production section of this Water Web site has been reviewed by University of Nebraska - Lincoln Cropping Systems Team members Richard Ferguson, Paul Jasa, Bob Klein, Dean Krull, Clyde Ogg, Jim Schneider, Charles Shapiro and Darrel Siekman.