Responsive irrigation management with Canopy Temperature Stress technology

As part of Smarter Irrigation for Profit phase 1 (SIP1), the CSIRO conducted on-farm trials of canopy temperature stress (CTS) technology in different cotton growing valleys in New South Wales. These trials provided the opportunity to use an irrigation scheduling tool based on real-time monitoring of a crop’s stress levels and need for water. This case study draws on the research to present an economic analysis of implementing CTS technology in furrow-irrigated, solid configuration cotton production. The farm-level economic framework used partial budgeting to compare the seasonal costs and benefits of the investment. Key Messaging:
– By supporting monitoring of a crop’s stress levels and need for water, canopy temperature stress (CTS) technology can increase cotton yields while reducing labour and water costs.
– Incorporating CTS technology into irrigation management has the potential to generate an additional $152/ha/season.
– Due to long water supply lead times, some growers may find it harder to adapt irrigation management unless there is sufficient on-farm storage or bore water supply