On-Farm Water Irrigation Efficiency Program

The On-Farm Water Irrigation Efficiency Program is designed to conserve our most precious resource - water - by increasing water efficiency in crop production by at least 20%. This reimbursement program is designated for farmers who would like to increase their water efficiency by installing qualifying irrigation systems.

This grant is disbursed and managed by the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, who will also be responsible for researching the impact in partnership with grantees.

Dr. Ethan Orr, Associate Director of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Economic Development, is the Principal Investigator and chief administrator of this program since its inception in 2022. The program has helped Farmers conserve over 36,400 water acre feet, equivalent to over 12 times the size of Tempe Town Lake. In 2023, the Arizona State Legislature allocated an additional $15.2 million to this important initiative, and we will continue to create even better more cost-effective ways to research and invest in Arizona's farmers to save water.

History of the Grant (Legislative)

Arizona has an extensive history of evolving water efficiency by continually improving and innovating ways to conserve water. As a state, Arizona will use less water in 2022 than it did in 1962, even though Arizona produces more crops and has over three times the population.

In that spirit, the Arizona State Legislature and the Arizona Governor’s Office created the On-Farm Water Irrigation Efficiency Program. This program is championed by Representative Tim Dunn (Yuma) and is designed to improve irrigation efficiency and save water while growing valuable crops simultaneously. Furthermore, this program aims to build Arizona’s economy, preserve water, and lead to a more sustainable future.

About the Grant

The On-Farm Water Irrigation Efficiency Program has two components: research and application. World-class researchers from the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension will study and evaluate various irrigation systems. They will analyze their impact on water efficiency, soil health, pest management, crop production, and value.

Additionally, this program will reimburse growers and farmers up to $1,500 per acre to change to a more efficient watering system. The On-Farm Water Irrigation Efficiency Program will reimburse the grower or vendor for creating 20% or more water efficiency savings.

How to Apply

Program Overview

To qualify for this program, applicants must create and show a 20% or more increase in water efficiency.
Qualified applicants will be reimbursed up to $1,500 per acre to switch to a new efficient crop watering system.
A committee of University and Industry experts will evaluate each applicant.
Any incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants with incomplete applications will be contacted to provide follow-up information.
Complete applications will be considered in the order they are received. A complete application addresses each question thoughtfully and uses the appropriate units when necessary in response.

Apply

Additional Information

For questions, please contact CES-WaterGrant@teams.arizona.edu.