Irrigation

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

Irrigation Rates and Frequencies for Western and Eastern Oregon Turfgrass

By Alyssa Cain Alec Kowalewski Brian McDonald and Clint Mattox

When trying to minimize irrigation inputs, the best turfgrass species for the Oregon climate include perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) in Western Oregon, Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) in Central/Eastern Oregon and tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus) in Western, Central or Eastern Oregon.

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

Featured Content

Sensor Sprayers for Specialty Crop Production

Sensor-controlled spray systems can help growers use fewer chemicals and less water while maintaining good pest control. Learn about the pros and cons of different types of sensor sprayers.

Brent Warneke, Jay W. Pscheidt, Robin Rosetta, Lloyd Nackley | Jun 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Orange level)

Why do I need water rights for irrigation?

Many landowners don't know that they need a legal water right to use surface water and groundwater for irrigation. Oregon’s water resources are publicly owned, and in great demand. Even though the water runs through your ...

Melissa Fery | Jun 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Pasture Irrigation and Fencing Resources for Small Farms

Publications and articles informing the public about how to properly irrigate and fence in forage pastures.

Mar 2018 | Collection

Latest Resources

Why do I need water rights for irrigation?

Melissa Fery | Jun 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Central Oregon Forage Seminar 2024 Recordings

Here are link to the recordings of the presentation at the 2024 Central Oregon Forage Seminar: ODA Updates and Lessons Learned – Paul Khokhar, Pesticide Investigator, ODA Irrigation Efficiency Incentive Programs – Brad Moore, ...

Gordon B. Jones | Feb 2024 | OSU Extension Catalog

Drip Irrigation System for Field-Grown Christmas Tree Seedlings

Kirk Stroda, a seasoned 5th-generation Oregon Christmas Tree farmer, reveals groundbreaking irrigation methods for keeping newly-planted seedlings alive amid harsh heat waves and drought conditions on a farm without direct water access....

Feb 2024 | Video

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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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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

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