Irrigation

OSU Extension provides research-based information to help Oregonians use irrigation water efficiently and effectively in agricultural and landscape settings. We offer tools, trainings and technical support to improve water management, conserve resources and enhance crop and soil health.

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Developing an irrigation water management plan

An irrigation water management plan helps producers apply the right amount of water at the right time and in the right place. This blueprint will help you develop an irrigation water management plan tailored to your farm or ranch.

María Isabel Zamora Re, Todd M. Peplin, Matthew Alongi, Abigail Tomasek | Apr 2026 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Inspecting and maintaining irrigation systems

Regular inspection of irrigation equipment allows producers to identify mechanical, hydraulic and electrical issues before they fail. Learn how to maintain the efficiency of your irrigation systems and prevent costly repairs.

María Isabel Zamora Re, Todd M. Peplin | Apr 2026 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

Soil moisture monitoring to support irrigation scheduling

Soil moisture monitoring involves measuring the amount of water stored within the crop root zone to support timely and efficient irrigation decisions. Learn how moisture data can help you improve your production.

María Isabel Zamora Re, Todd M. Peplin, Abigail Tomasek | Apr 2026 | OSU Extension Catalog

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Irrigation Technology and Management Program Management Technical Guides

Water is one of the most limited resources in agriculture. Across the Western United States, drought, rising energy costs and environmental concerns are changing how irrigation must be managed. This 10-part curriculum gives you the tools you need to save water, energy and money.

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Credit: Adobe Stock (Cropped from original)

Featured resources

Choosing the right irrigation system for your small farm on the Oregon Coast

Irrigation can be an important part of water and drought management for small farms on the Oregon Coast. Explore several different irrigation styles to help you determine the right choice for your farm.

Evie Smith | Aug 2022 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Common misconceptions and key points about dry farming

Dry farming — producing crops without irrigation — is one approach growers can take to deal with changes in climate and water resources. It can be done with the right location, crops and practices.

Amy Garrett | Dec 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Irrigating pastures

Irrigating pastures can provide livestock with nutrition long into summer. Learn to monitor soil moisture to determine when to irrigate and how much water to apply.

Mylen Bohle | Apr 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Latest news

OSU study helps hemp growers save water without sacrificing CBD yield

Irrigation sweet spot cuts costs and keeps cannabinoid returns strong.

Richard Roseberg | Mar 2026 | Impact story

OSU develops first-of-its-kind water stress index for hazelnut trees

Integrating advanced technologies into hazelnut farming offers a promising way to improve water management, enhance crop quality and tackle challenges posed by drought.

Nik Wiman, Lloyd Nackley, Dalyn McCauley | Apr 2025 | Impact story

Viticulturist finds that Southern Oregon vineyards could save costs on water

Southern Oregon wine grape growers might be able to cut their water usage by almost half because of a new study led by Oregon State University Extension Service that found wine grape water usage estimated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's AgriMet was 44% higher than necessary.

Nov 2024 | Impact story

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Irrigation rates and frequencies for Western and Eastern Oregon turfgrass

Learn guidelines for irrigating Oregon turfgrass, covering species selection, soil types, evapotranspiration rates and best practices for irrigation timing and frequency.

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Photo Credit: Maykal - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original)

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Field crops

Pasture and forages

Soil

Vegetables and specialty seeds

Rangeland conservation and management

Water management and conservation

Meet Our Experts

María Isabel Zamora Re

Assistant Professor, Water Management/Statewide Irrigation Specialist

Contact me with questions about irrigation, water management, efficiency and conservation.

William Jaeger

Policy Specialist

Gordon B. Jones

Extension Agronomist

Alec Levin

SOREC Director and Viticulturist

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