Innovative Irrigation Tool: 360 Rain Delivers Precision Watering to Crops
October 14, 2023Amidst a year of drought challenges for farmers in the US and Canada, a novel approach to crop irrigation has emerged. The 360 Rain, a self-propelled sprayer modified with a hose reel, offers a groundbreaking method of nurturing crops by delivering water, nutrients, fungicides, and more directly to the base of plants. This innovative machine, consisting of a galvanized metal frame and RTK-equipped tires, relies on cellular network connectivity for control and instructions.
Operating with a 60-foot boom (equivalent to 24 rows) at a speed of 0.45 mph, the 360 Rain can apply over 2,000,000 gallons of water per week through Y-DROP style hoses. This method provides crops with 3 to 4 inches of moisture, potentially supplemented with nutrients or manure. After two years of testing, trial results indicated that using the 360 Rain to deliver 4.5 inches of water led to an additional 65 bushels per acre in yield, representing a 32% increase compared to non-irrigated areas.
The 360 Rain stands out for its lower water requirements, efficient nutrient delivery, adaptability to irregular field shapes, and a 7-foot clearance under the frame. It promises to be a valuable tool for farmers in mitigating the effects of drought in the upcoming growing season.
