Consumer demand for organically produced food and fiber is a trend that has grown dramatically in recent years.  Water is an essential ingredient to organic crop production, and where rainfall does not occur naturally or in the right amount at the right time, farmers irrigate.  Drip irrigation technology was developed decades ago and has evolved into a popular way for organic farmers to solve problems unique to organic production issues.  In addition, drip irrigation helps organic farmers optimize resource use, maximize profits, enhance lifestyle and reduce risk. 

In contrast to conventional agriculture, organic growers produce crops without herbicides, pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.  In addition to the advantages drip irrigation affords conventional agriculture (see Agriculture), drip irrigation provides even more compelling benefits to organic growers.  For instance, closely spaced drip emitters create a wetted corridor down the plant row and allow both germination and irrigation of the crop without sprinklers.  This drastically reduces weed growth in furrows and other non-targeted areas.  This is especially significant if hand labor is used to weed in lieu of herbicides. Since the crop can be spoon fed water and organic nutrients as needed, and the plant itself remains dry, the crop is healthier and more resistant to insects and diseases.  Finally, high quality, thicker walled extruded drip tapes are available that resist clogging from organic fertilizers, and/or damage from boring or chewing insects. 

Converting to drip irrigation is much like buying and learning to use any new technology.  It is best to start by doing a little research.  Then, find someone you trust to help with the design, installation, operation and maintenance.  Drip irrigation is different from gravity or sprinkler irrigation, and can be highly customized to an individual operation.  For best results, find someone who understands both drip and your farm!

To get started, click on the links provided to access how-to guides, case studies, technical articles and online tools to help evaluate whether the investment in drip irrigation is right for you.  DripIrrigation.org is dedicated to providing accurate, useful information about using drip in organic agricultural applications.  We hope you take advantage of the experience and knowledge of DripIrrigation.org, and that you join the growing numbers of organic farmers who have reaped the benefits of converting to drip irrigation.

Click the following link to learn more about Drip Irrigation.