Utah State University Experiment Aims to Enhance Farm Water and Labor Efficiency
Farmers and ranchers in the Uintah Basin recently attended a demonstration by Utah State University's (USU) Extension Service showcasing new sprinkler technology designed to improve irrigation efficiency. The event, held at the Bar Lazy TL Ranch, featured USU researchers, politicians, and reporters observing the sprinklers in an alfalfa field. Burdette Barker, an irrigation specialist with USU's Extension Service, noted that while wheel line systems have existed for decades, significant improvements have been lacking. The new sprinklers feature a different spray pattern and incorporate automation to modernize existing wheel line systems. Researchers gathered feedback from farmers, who often move their irrigation lines manually at various times of the day. One farmer, Kolby Hullinger, acknowledged the advantages of the new options despite some practical concerns about a specific valve. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address Utah's water usage, as agriculture is the state's largest water cons... 
