Water Irrigation Efficiency Program
The Water Irrigation Efficiency Program is designed to conserve one of Arizona’s most precious resources - water - by helping farmers and ranchers switch to irrigation systems that use less of this dwindling commodity.
The $45 million WIEP, funded by the State of Arizona and administered by University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, is helping scores of growers in 11 counties save enough water every year to supply a small city.
Background
The Arizona Legislature and Governor’s Office created the Water Irrigation Efficiency Program in 2022 with support from state Rep. Tim Dunn of Yuma. The Legislature allocated $30 million in 2022, and $15 million more in 2023.
Read the bill that created the program
Helping Growers
The program is helping scores of growers across Arizona replace inefficient flood irrigation systems with sprinkler or drip systems that use at least 20 percent less water. It pays growers $1,500 per acre up to $1 million per farm to switch irrigation. e water efficiency savings.
Funding Research
The program is also funding $3 million in University of Arizona research. Our scientists will analyze the new irrigation systems’ impact on water efficiency, soil health, pest management, crop production, and value.
For questions, please contact CES-WaterGrant@teams.arizona.edu.
Applicants must show that their new systems, which must be approved, will use 20 percent less water than current systems.