December 5, 2008

Farmers can soak up irrigation information at workshop

"Participants will learn how to better manage their irrigation systems and hopefully improve their bottom line," said Gene Matzat, Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service educator in LaPorte County. "Research results about the latest adaptations for irrigation scheduling, soil moisture determination and energy options will be presented."

Irrigating for high-yield corn management, irrigating for soybean determinant varieties versus indeterminant varieties and double cropping options also will be featured.

A registration brochure is available online at https://www.extension.purdue.edu/anr/documents/
2008/MIA08.pdf. Registration costs $30 per person, which includes lunch and dues to the Michiana Irrigation Association. Participants must register by Friday (Dec. 12) and checks should be made payable to the Michiana Irrigation Association and sent to MSU Extension/MIA Meeting at 612 E. Main St., Centreville, MI 49032. Payment also will be accepted at the door, but individuals must reserve their spot by calling (269) 467-5511.

Matzat said two continuing education units in the area of soil and water management have been applied for and will be available if approved.

Topics and speakers include:

* Indiana's implementation of the Great Lakes Agreement and the Federal Government Response, Ron McAhron, Indiana Department of Natural Resources deputy director.

* Paying for irrigation in today's world, Luc Valentin, Purdue Extension farm management specialist.

* Cost of improving your irrigation and energy options, Lyndon Kelley, Purdue Extension and Michigan State University Extension irrigation educator.

* Irrigation tools for the Michiana area, Steve Miller, Michigan State University biosystems engineer, and Bill Northcott, Michigan State University irrigation specialist.

* Irrigation research and outreach, Northcott.

* Research updates from the surrounding area, Bruce MacKellar, Michigan State University Extension agriculture and natural resources educator in St. Joseph County.

* Availability of funds for irrigation and operating during today's credit crisis, Nancy Blaauw, GreenStone Farm Credit Services leasing and trade credit specialist.

The Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery is located at 105 E. Middlebury St. For questions and more information contact Deanna Mumby at (269) 467-5511, mumbyde@muse.edu. The Winter Irrigation Workshop is sponsored by Purdue Extension, Michigan State University Extension and the Michiana Irrigation Association.

Writer: Julie Douglas, (765) 496-1050, douglajk@purdue.edu

Source: Eugene Matzat, (219) 324-9407, ematzat@purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
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