Minnesota Irrigator Program returns March 10th and 11th, 2026 in Perham, MN

Efficient agricultural irrigation has become a hot topic in Minnesota. With its sandy soils and limited precipitation, irrigation is a key component of production agriculture in the central region. Combined with these conditions and the varying rainfall we have been experiencing, matching irrigation with crop water use has become more important. An understanding of the plant-water-soil relationship, proper irrigation system maintenance, and use of irrigation scheduling are just some of the tools irrigators use for cost-effective crop production. 

Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP)

The Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP) helps irrigators and irrigation professionals match irrigation to crop water use, improve water-use efficiency, and reduce water costs.

Programming will include a discussion of irrigation scheduling, variable rate technology, autonomous pivots, flowmeters and calibration, and nitrogen management.

Date & Time: March 10th & 11th, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Cost: The cost of this 2-day program is $60. Breakfast and lunch are provided each day.

Register: z.umn.edu/MIP2026 

In-person event location: Cactus Event Center: 43521 Fort Thunder Rd, Perham, MN 56573 

MAWQCP Irrigation Endorsement:

In addition to learning about the most effective irrigation management practices, completing the MIP is one of the requirements to attain the Irrigation Endorsement of the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program. Certified farms will receive the endorsement with proof of attendance to this program and the adoption of a new irrigation practice or scheduling method on-farm.

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