DOPPLER RADAR IRRIGATION SCHEDULING SYSTEM

Computational Geosciences, Inc. will develop and implement a Doppler Radar Irrigation Scheduling System (DRISS). It will be a real-time, operational system specifically designed to meet the irrigation scheduling information requirements of an irrigation district. DRISS will capitalize on the enhanced capabilities of Doppler radar technology to provide (1) a more accurate estimate of rainfall and (2) a better spatial distribution of the rainfall over the district. It will provide high-resolution information on current hydrometeorological conditions, as well as short-term forecasts (10-14 days) of present hydrometeorological conditions and crop water requirements. This information will assist the end user in responding to dynamically changing hydrometeorological conditions, and allow implementation of an optimum irrigation scheduling and water allocation strategy. This will improve the efficiency of water delivery for the district and make more water available to farmers. DRISS will be a scientifically-based system that integrates naturally occurring rainfall, irrigation data, crop water use, and crop growth stage to develop current hydrological conditions and short-term projections of hydrological conditions for the district. Irrigation water volumes are immense and even modest increases in efficiency can have substantial financial and environmental benefits. These efficiency increases will be realized through DRISS.