Emily O’Donnell - Graduate Student

Corn field under center pivot — A water-saving strategy, deficit irrigation represents an important concept in managing water use through irrigation as groundwater depletion rises across the U.S.

The Economics of Deficit Irrigation Utilizing Soil Moisture Probes

December 15, 2023

Cornhusker Economics experts examine the financial impact on producers using a deficit irrigation strategy in corn.

Nebraska map showing risk levels of irrigated corn production in Nebraska, based on insurance data

Nebraska Corn Production Risk by County Using Crop Insurance Data

July 13, 2016

Farmers know that yield risks vary across the state; however, the ability to compare yield risk between counties is new. Using crop insurance premium calculation data, we can quantify the expected insurance payment (or indemnities) by evaluating the county crop insurance reference rate. A high reference rate value implies higher historical payments and consequently more production risk and a higher crop insurance premium. Lower reference rates imply lower risk and lower premiums. Risk varies widely from one end of the state to the other, highlighting the need to consider general recommendations broadly and customize decisions to your data and situation. County-level risk maps for irrigated and non-irrigated corn production in Nebraska are included.