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Innovative Irrigation on Whatcom Dairy Farms

10/18/2024

The 360 Rain, once set up is completely autonomous and can be monitored from a phone, said Travis Roosma of Farmers Equipment.

LYNDEN, Wash. – Two Whatcom County dairy farmers recently became owners of an innovative, efficient irrigation system. Crediting support from the Whatcom Conservation District and Farmers Equipment, Leroy Plagerman and his son, Leighton, of Bel Lyn Farms both spoke highly about their new 360 Rain irrigation system.

“We’ve always been all about the next level of automation and what we can do to be more efficient on our farm,” said Leroy. Fortunately, the 360 Rain irrigation system fits these ideals.

With the looming water rights adjudication in Whatcom County, this system is a way to significantly increase water use efficiency. Farmers using this machine can both increase environmental sustainability on their farms and get stronger yields.

The 360 Rain efficiency rating is at 95% compared to traditional “big gun” methods at 50%; it can apply lower volumes of water to a field and achieve better results. Additionally, 360 Rain is completely autonomous, and once set up can be completely monitored from a phone or computer, leading to labor savings over traditional systems.

The 360 Rain applies water close to the grow, allowing little drift and ensuring application consistency.

Having previously used “big gun” irrigation reels, Leighton expressed the concern of watching water just blow away on a windy day. With the 360 Rain, water droplets are applied close to the ground, allowing for little drift and water loss, even with wind.
The Plagermans noted how vital a role the Whatcom Conservation District had in bringing the 360 Rain in, providing significant cost share funding and expertise to the project. Whatcom CD technician Trevor Gearhart noted the role projects like this play in the Conservation Districts goals. “As a Conservation District we work to help all landowners with natural resource issues. This project is a great way to decrease water use and increase productivity," said Trevor.

And for farmers, this irrigator’s effectiveness in productivity and efficiency really creates a win/win. Aric VanderHaak from 360 Rain local dealer Farmer’s Equipment, notes: “After a few months, we are seeing better crop yields - grass more luscious green and the corn is level with no dry spots”