Stripling Irrigation Research Park

The C.M. Stripling Irrigation Research Park (SIRP) is a state-of-the-art irrigation research and education center providing an easily accessible facility to assist farmers in managing irrigation and the general public in understanding the role of water in the economy of the region. Scientists, engineers, extension specialists, and staff collaborate to define crop water needs, improve food, feed and fiber production under irrigation, and find more efficient ways to apply irrigation water. SIRP hosted research projects from many disciplines in 2015. SIRP's linkage with the Flint River Partnership has assisted with the Partnership obtaining $5 million from the USDA-NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program for cost-sharing irrigation efficiency and conservation enhancements, including lower pressure drop nozzles, remote soil moisture monitoring, and variable-rate irrigation systems. SIRP coordinated with the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences to become one of 30 official “partners” on these RCPP projects. The Park and UGA/CAES is continuing to work with the Partnership and their 2016 $10 million RCPP project proposal to strengthen drought resiliency in the lower Flint River basin.