Minnesota irrigators will soon have access to unprecedented support to modernize irrigation systems, improve water efficiency, and protect groundwater resources. Through the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), more than $11 million has been awarded to Minnesota partners to launch a new Precision Irrigation initiative focused on long-term farm profitability and water stewardship.
Led by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture in partnership with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and a broad coalition of local and statewide partners, this five-year effort will deliver both financial and technical assistance to farmers across 25 Minnesota counties where irrigation plays a critical role in crop production.
This initiative represents one of the largest coordinated investments in irrigation conservation the state has seen. By combining federal funding with strong local partnerships, the program is designed to help producers adopt advanced technologies and management strategies that make every drop of water count.
Why Precision Irrigation Matters
Many irrigated acres in Minnesota sit on light, sandy soils that allow water and nutrients to move quickly through the soil profile. While irrigation is essential for maintaining yields and crop quality, inefficient water or nitrogen management can increase the risk of nitrate movement into groundwater.
The Precision Irrigation RCPP focuses on solutions that:
- Improve irrigation timing and accuracy
- Reduce unnecessary water use
- Optimize nitrogen application and uptake
- Protect drinking water supplies and aquifers
By improving how water and nutrients are applied, farmers can reduce input costs, maintain strong yields, and demonstrate leadership in protecting Minnesota’s natural resources.
What the Program Supports
Participating producers can receive cost-share assistance for a range of irrigation upgrades and conservation practices, such as:
- Modernizing center pivot and sprinkler systems
- Installing soil moisture sensors and monitoring equipment
- Upgrading pumps, pipelines, and control panels
- Implementing irrigation water management plans
- Adding variable rate and precision application technology
In certain cases, soil health practices like cover crops or reduced tillage may also be included when paired with irrigation improvements on irrigated acres.
Beyond financial support, the program provides direct access to trained conservation professionals who can help design systems, interpret field data, and fine-tune irrigation and nutrient strategies for each individual operation.
Where the Program Is Available
The initiative will be implemented through local Soil and Water Conservation Districts in 25 counties with significant irrigated agriculture and vulnerable groundwater resources. Farmers in these counties will work directly with their local conservation offices to develop and carry out projects that fit their farms.
Field demonstrations, workshops, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities will also be offered so producers can see new technology in action and learn from fellow irrigators.
Strong Partnerships, Practical Results
This effort brings together a wide network of partners including conservation districts, University of Minnesota Extension, technical colleges, grower organizations, and agricultural industry leaders. Demonstration and training sites will showcase real-world applications of precision irrigation tools and strategies.
By investing in both equipment and education, the program aims to accelerate adoption of practices that improve water use efficiency while strengthening farm resilience and profitability.
How to Apply
Enrollment for the Precision Irrigation RCPP opens February 2 and runs through February 27. Interested producers should contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District or NRCS office to begin the application process.
Local staff will help confirm eligibility, outline potential projects, and guide producers through planning and paperwork. Because funding is limited and interest is expected to be high, early contact is strongly encouraged.
A Win for Farms and Water
The new Precision Irrigation RCPP provides Minnesota irrigators with a rare opportunity to upgrade infrastructure, adopt data-driven management, and protect groundwater without carrying the full financial burden alone.
By pairing cutting-edge technology with practical on-farm support, this initiative helps ensure that Minnesota agriculture remains both highly productive and environmentally responsible for generations to come.
For irrigators ready to take the next step in efficiency and stewardship, this program offers the tools, funding, and expertise to make it happen.
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