Smart Green Water | Farmers’ Needs in Digitised Water Management

The digitisation of the agricultural sector is revolutionising the way water, an essential resource for food production, is managed. However, despite technological advances, many farmers face significant challenges in implementing digital solutions on their farms. The following explores the most pressing needs that have emerged from surveys and seminars conducted with industry professionals.

Affordable Systems

One of the main barriers to the adoption of digital technologies is their high cost. In order to make water management systems viable for farmers of various scales and financial capacities, it is essential that:

• Subsidy and funding programmes are implemented: These initiatives can facilitate the adoption of innovative technologies.
• Develop economical and effective solutions: It is crucial that digital tools are accessible and offer a clear return on investment.
• The expected return on investment is clarified: Farmers need to understand the time and benefits associated with their investment in technology.

Education and Training

The transition to new technologies requires adequate training. Farmers must have programmes that teach them how to use these digital tools effectively. To this end, the following are proposed:

• Face-to-face and online courses: Training must be practical and theoretical, adapted to the specific needs of each farmer.
• Continuous advice: Constant technical support is essential to solve problems and optimise the use of technologies.

Robust Connectivity Infrastructure

The effectiveness of digital technologies is highly dependent on a robust connectivity infrastructure. It is essential to:

• Improve high-speed internet access in rural areas, which will allow farmers to use digital tools without interruption.
• Implement wireless sensor networks: These networks will facilitate data communication between devices and systems.

Data Integration

Farmers require systems that integrate information from a variety of sources to make more informed decisions. This includes:

• Soil moisture sensors: Enable continuous monitoring of soil water content.
• Weather stations: Provide accurate data on local weather conditions.
• Satellite and drone technologies: Provide aerial imagery and data to help assess crop condition and water distribution.

Analysis and Recommendation Tools

It is crucial to have advanced tools that not only collect data, but also provide analysis and practical irrigation recommendations. To this end, the following are suggested:

• Predictive models: Using artificial intelligence to anticipate water needs.
• Recommendation systems: Algorithms that suggest specific actions based on collected data.

Reliable Support and Maintenance

Finally, farmers need reliable technical support and maintenance services to ensure the proper functioning of the implemented technologies. This includes:

• Accessible technical support services: Assistance in solving technical problems and performing upgrades.
• Regular maintenance programmes: Ensure optimal functioning of equipment.

Conclusion

Addressing these needs is essential to encourage the widespread adoption of digital technologies in water management within the agricultural sector. Doing so will not only improve water use efficiency, but also contribute to the sustainability of the agricultural sector, thus ensuring a more resilient future for farmers and global food production.

Attached documents (in Spanish)

RESUMEN NECESIDADES AGRICULTORES