Irrigation featured in new interactive garden on the National Mall
Efficient irrigation continues to have an active voice in the national discussion about production agriculture. The Farm Journal Foundation’s Trust in Food initiative is an effort to rebuild consumer confidence in the U.S. agri-food value chain through empowering the agricultural industry to catalyze positive environmental, social and economic advancement. As part of this initiative, on July 26, the Agriculture Through the Voice of the Farmer installation on the National Mall was unveiled.
This new installation is interactive and includes patches of land growing corn, soybeans, alfalfa, fruits and vegetables, and a pollinator garden. Each area includes video and audio storytelling from U.S. farmers and ranchers. Visitors to the garden learn about natural resource stewardship and conservation-enhancing technological advancements.
Precision irrigation is highlighted in a section of the garden, including a testimonial from a farmer sharing her story about adopting irrigation in her operation. Areas of the garden feature precision drip irrigation technologies provided by Rain Bird. The system utilizes soil moisture sensors and weather data technology.
IA Senior Government and Public Affairs Manager Sarah Roth represented the IA at the unveiling event, which also included industry presentations and panel discussions. Plans include keeping the garden installation and its related activity areas in the National Mall for two years.
To learn more about the Agriculture Through the Voice of the Farmer project, go to www.fjfgarden.org, and for more information about additional initiatives planned by the Trust in Food initiative, go to www.trustinfood.com.
