Why Are Agricultural Businesses Investing 65% in Irrigation Research?

[Cod]

I was watching a show on the "Rural Network" yesterday (yes, I live in the boonies) and they were talking about irrigation. The topics included types of irrigation, research, policies, etc.. Well, during the portion of the show about irrigation research, the guy mentioned that nearly all agricultural related businesses (large and small companies) put more than 65% of their budget towards irrigation research. I don't know much about the Earth and the land, but I do know plenty about farming since I grew up on a cattle farm.

I guess I'd like to know why so many companies are putting so much effort into researching and developing new irrigation methods? Are they traying to "sacrifice" the Earth's surface? Is their something about the Earth's crust that is scaring the commercial farmers? Or is as simple as getting water from point A to point B quicker and easier than you can now?

 

[Bystander]

put more than 65% of their budget towards irrigation research.

65% of the RESEARCH budget, perhaps, but not of the total.

I guess I'd like to know why so many companies are putting so much effort into researching and developing new irrigation methods? Are they traying to "sacrifice" the Earth's surface? Is their something about the Earth's crust that is scaring the commercial farmers? Or is as simple as getting water from point A to point B quicker and easier than you can now?

Water has mass. Moving water involves lifting, lowering, accelerating, and decelerating that mass. That takes energy. Energy costs money.

 

[ravenprp]

There are several reasons why agricultural businesses are investing a significant portion of their budget towards irrigation research.

Firstly, irrigation is crucial for the success of many crops. With changing weather patterns and increasing water scarcity, traditional irrigation methods may not be as effective as they used to be. Therefore, there is a need to develop new and more efficient irrigation methods to ensure that crops receive the necessary amount of water for optimal growth.

Secondly, irrigation research also focuses on sustainability and conservation of natural resources. With concerns about the impact of agriculture on the environment, companies are investing in research to develop irrigation systems that use water more efficiently and minimize wastage. This not only helps to preserve water resources but also reduces the environmental footprint of agricultural practices.

Moreover, new irrigation technologies can also lead to increased productivity and profitability for farmers. By investing in research, companies are able to develop innovative irrigation methods that can help farmers produce higher yields with less water. This can ultimately lead to increased profits for both the farmers and the agricultural businesses.

Additionally, investing in irrigation research also helps to address challenges faced by farmers in different regions. For example, some areas may have limited access to water or may be prone to droughts, while others may have excessive rainfall. By investing in research, companies can develop irrigation solutions tailored to the specific needs of different regions, making farming more sustainable and profitable.

In conclusion, the significant investment in irrigation research by agricultural businesses is driven by the need to address challenges such as changing weather patterns, water scarcity, and environmental concerns. By developing more efficient and sustainable irrigation methods, these businesses are not only ensuring the success of their crops but also contributing to the overall sustainability of the agricultural industry.