Irrigation systems incorporate GPS technology. (Irrigation Review).

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) guidance technology can now deliver positioning accuracy for efficient precise irrigation. Valmont Irrigation, of Valley, Neb., and Landsay Manufacturing Co., of Lindsay, Neb., have the technological capabilities with potential applications for irrigation systems.

The technology is capable of consistent, track-ontrack accuracy with pivots and linear machines, as well as with corner arms. With guidance of steerable corner arms that can cover up to 14 percent more acres, the need for a buried wire guidance system is eliminated. Other applications include field mapping and water and chemigation.

GPS technology assures continual adjustment of speed and steering that is critical for precise, full-field irrigation, according to Craig Malsam, director of engineering, research and development at Valmont.

"Our GPS technology holds tremendous long-term potential to enable growers to integrate data they collect from yield monitoring and mapping equipment to control mechanized irrigation systems," he said. He added that Valmont is also researching and testing several other advanced technology alternatives to buried wire guidance, alignment and communication controls.

Charlie Meis, Lindsay's vice president-engineering, said GPS guidance for their Zimmatic systems is a valuable and integral part of a producer's precision farming program.

"GPS is another tool we will offer Zimmatic customers to increase the efficiency of their irrigation operations," he said.