Soil Moisture Sensors

 Soil moisture sensors measure the water content in soil. Using soil moisture measurements is one of the best and simplest ways to get feedback to help make improved water management decisions. Good irrigation water management will increase yields, improve crop quality, conserve water, save energy, decrease fertilizer requirements, and reduce non‐point source pollution.

Accurate determination of soil water status (soil water content or soil water potential) is fundamental to agricultural water management. Effective irrigation management requires that soil water status be accurately monitored over time in representative locations in the field. Irrigation scheduling requires the knowledge of “when” and “how much” water to apply to optimize crop production. Proper irrigation management will help prevent economic losses caused by over or under irrigation; movement of nutrients, pesticides and other chemicals into the groundwater and other water bodies; and wasting water resources and energy consumption.