About the training
The Center Pivot Irrigation Technology Training is an intensive four-day program designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of center pivot irrigation system, from its fundamental components and engineering principles to advanced technologies, management strategies and real-world applications.
Learning in the global hub of center pivot irrigation
Hosted by the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska, the program includes:
- classroom instruction;
- discussions with irrigation specialists and industry leaders;
- practical field experiences; and
- visits to local farms, well-drilling operations and major irrigation manufacturers.
The training will be held in Nebraska, widely recognized as a global hub of center pivot irrigation. Nebraska is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of center pivot-irrigated farmland, as well as leading irrigation companies that have played a central role in the development, manufacturing and international expansion of technology. Approximately 2.6 million hectares of Nebraska’s irrigated land is served by center pivots, highlighting the state’s unique experience and expertise in irrigation engineering, agricultural water management, precision irrigation and water governance.
What participants will learn
Participants will learn how center pivot systems are designed, selected, operated, evaluated and maintained. The program covers:
- system components;
- hydraulics;
- pumping requirements;
- sprinkler-package design;
- fertigation, irrigation scheduling;
- application uniformity;
- preventive maintenance;
- energy use;
- investment costs; and
- economic returns.
It also introduces advanced technologies such as variable-rate irrigation; corner systems; remote monitoring; automation; remote sensing; crop and soil modeling; and decision-support platforms.
Practical field experience
Through field visits, participants will observe center pivot irrigation in commercial fields production; interact directly with producers and managers; and better understand the operational challenges and decisions involved in managing irrigation systems under real farming conditions. They will also visit irrigation and well-drilling facilities to learn how center pivots, pumping systems and water-supply infrastructure are designed, manufactured, installed and supported.
Where innovation meets practice
Develop hands-on expertise in center pivot irrigation at the birthplace of the modern irrigation industry. Learn from leading university specialists, producers, engineers and global irrigation companies while exploring the technologies and management practices shaping the future of irrigated agriculture.
Registration
General registration - $750 until March 30, 2027
(Fees will increase to $1,000 on April 1, 2027.)
Student registration - $375
(Verification of student status may be required.)
Questions
Please contact Ivo Zution Gonçalves at izutiongoncalves2@nebraska.edu with any questions.