Michigan State University researchers are developing precision irrigation tools that help farmers make informed decisions, improve crop production and conserve water and energy.
July 2026 was among the driest on record across many parts of Michigan, according to National Weather Service data. When rainfall falls short, growers rely on irrigation to support their crops, making precise water use critical.
Younsuk Dong, an assistant professor and irrigation specialist in the MSU Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering(opens in new window), leads research into affordable and accessible irrigation technologies for a range of crops.
Dong and his team pioneered the Low-Cost Monitoring System, or LOCOMOS(opens in new window). The system uses in-field sensors to monitor soil moisture, leaf wetness and other environmental conditions. Software analyzes the data and delivers precise irrigation recommendations to growers through a mobile app.
“A low-cost, easy-to-use irrigation monitoring system is badly needed because most of the commercial systems currently available are prohibitively expensive,” Dong said. “Since nearly everyone has a smartphone, LOCOMOS data and recommendations are accessible to growers. We’ve been able to expand this research over the past few years to provide accurate information that helps growers make informed decisions.”
In a project funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service that ran from 2021 through 2024, LOCOMOS improved irrigation efficiency in corn and soybean systems. Compared with growers’ normal irrigation schedules, LOCOMOS was estimated to increase annual profits in a 100-acre field by $7,700 for corn and $1,300 for soybeans through higher yields and lower energy costs.
Source : msu.edu