The Western Growers Center for Innovation and Technology (WGCIT) has published its third of an ongoing series of case studies, analyzing the real grower costs and savings associated with the installation of an automated irrigation management system on 400 acres of processing tomatoes at Terranova Ranch.

Faced with mounting water and labor pressures, Terranova Ranch has turned to smart irrigation technology to keep its 6,000-acre Central Valley operation efficient and sustainable. Partnering with rural broadband provider Cal.net, the farm implemented an automated irrigation management system that cut water use by more than one-third while reducing operating costs and labor demands.

In this case study, Terranova’s pilot project showed dramatic results—a 34 percent reduction in water use in the first year, translating to $22,420 in annual water savings. Combined with reduced field visits and vehicle costs, total savings in the first year reached $61,244.

“Water is one of our key economic drivers here on the farm,” said Don Cameron, Vice President and General Manager of Terranova. “Any time we can be more efficient—be more accurate with what we do—benefits us in the long term.”

To see this and other Western Growers case studies, click here.

The CIT is offering an investment assessment for any operation interested in the ROI of automation equipment. For more information or to ensure notification of future CIT case studies, reach out to the Innovation team at [email protected].