About us
SmartPath promotes the convergence of nanotechnology-enabled decision analytic tools and water treatment for advancing water management specific to fresh produce
This USDA Coordinated Agriculture Project (CAP) is a multi-university, large-scale effort to promote collaboration, open communication, and the exchange of information among individuals, institutions, States, and regions.
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PROGRAM
Benefits
Potential benefits from reuse of alternative water in irrigation
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In some states, could close water gap by more than 2 billion acre-feet
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If adopted by 20% of growers, could at least double water-use efficiency on the national level
Indirect benefits from reuse of alternative water in irrigation
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Increased food security
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Protection of ecosystem services
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Decreased pumping costs
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Potential fertilizer savings
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Climate change mitigation
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Reduced tension for water users
Risks
Potential risks from reuse of alternative water in irrigation
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Contamination of fresh produce with pathogenic (fecal) organisms
Indirect risks from reuse of alternative water in irrigation
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No significant economic gain
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Loss of time
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Protection of ecosystem services
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Increased tension for water users
Smart systems for decision support
Integration of real time sensors with water treatment technology for improving on site decision support is based on the OODA paradigm
Convergence of nanotechnology-enabled decision analytic tools and irrigation management
