Deficit Irrigation of a Diverse Irrigated Rotation: Jake Madison

This farmer-to-farmer case study examines how Jake Madison manages limited irrigation water on a diversified farm in Echo, Oregon. Madison fully irrigates high-value vegetable crops such as onions and potatoes while deficit irrigating wheat, corn, alfalfa, and other hay crops. The publication describes how crop selection, irrigation timing, soil-moisture monitoring, efficient equipment, remote controls, and adjusted seeding and fertilizer rates help make the strategy profitable. It also discusses efforts to increase soil water-holding capacity through manure applications, reduced compaction, and no-till practices. The case study outlines the benefits, risks, and management challenges of deficit irrigation and considers how changing snowpack, precipitation, and seasonal water availability could affect the farm.