Introduction
Meet Tate and Jordan Emmanuel, brothers from North Bend, Nebraska. They currently have 370 acres of drip irrigation and have been using it since 2017. When this video was taken, they were in full harvest swing. 2024 was an interesting harvest due to the weather; crops were drying faster than usual but they were able to use their drip irrigation and keep those fields from drying down as quickly.
Lessons Learned with Subsurface Drip Irrigation
The Emmanuels believe subsurface drip irrigation is the most efficient method of irrigation they’ve used. For them, it’s not just about watering crops—it’s also about delivering fertilizers and biologicals directly through the system, maximizing its potential.
In-season tissue and soil sampling gives them valuable insights, allowing them to identify and address nutrient deficiencies quickly. This proactive approach ensures the plants get exactly what they need, when they need it.
While not all products are compatible with pivot systems, subsurface drip irrigation offers the flexibility to apply a wider range of options directly to the root zone, ensuring precise and efficient delivery.
By tracking deficiencies throughout the season, the Emmanuels can refine their strategy and create a more effective plan for next year.
Maximizing Water Efficiency with SDI
This Nebraska based farming family transitioned a piece of land from flood irrigation to subsurface drip irrigation, cutting their water use by about 50%. In areas with limited water availability, SDI has proven to be an effective and reliable solution for maintaining crop health.
With water restrictions becoming increasingly common and likely to remain a challenge throughout their farming careers, the Emmanuels recognize the value of SDI. Regulated by their NRDs, they’ve seen firsthand how subsurface drip irrigation significantly improves water use efficiency—often by 30-50% or more—making it a sustainable choice for the future.
Navigating EQIP and REAP with Confidence
The EQIP and REAP process can feel overwhelming, but the Emmanuels encourage farmers not to let that hold them back. They have used the EQIP program through NRCS to convert from flood to drip irrigation and the REAP program through the USDA to convert from pivot to drip. At NutraDrip, our team is here to guide you every step of the way, making the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
The Future of SDI on the Farm
Looking ahead, Tate and Jordan plan to expand their SDI system. One of the biggest advantages, according to Tate, is the ability to control the system remotely from a laptop or phone—an in-season convenience that simplifies management.
As regulatory pressures around fertilizer use are likely to increase in the future, the Emmanuels see SDI as a key to improving their return on investment. Using less fertilizer while achieving better yields will be especially beneficial in a downturn market.
Working with the NutraDrip Team
The Emmanuels have had a positive experience working with the NutraDrip team, appreciating their commitment to customer support. “They always pick up the phone and have someone ready to answer your questions,” says Tate. Whether it’s getting the right product or supplies, the team is always there to help.
What stands out most is NutraDrip’s full-systems approach. The support doesn’t end when the irrigation season wraps up. The team works closely with the Emmanuels to assess what worked on their farm and offers valuable product suggestions.
Since partnering with NutraDrip, the Emmanuels have seen continuous improvement and innovation. “Every year, we try something new with the drip tape,” Tate notes. NutraDrip’s willingness to experiment and find new solutions demonstrates their commitment to helping farmers succeed.
Advice For Those Considering SDI
The Emmanuels offer straightforward advice to anyone thinking about adopting subsurface drip irrigation (SDI): “Look into it, and don’t be afraid to try it.” They believe there’s likely a part of your operation where SDI would be a great fit.
One concern they had when they first started using drip tape in 2017 was not being able to see the water application like they could with a pivot or gravity irrigation system. However, with the advanced technology available, including moisture probes and well monitoring systems, the Emmanuels quickly realized the system works to ensure crops receive the right amount of water.
While SDI might feel unfamiliar at first, the Emmanuels encourage growers to embrace the technology and trust that it will effectively water the crop, even if it’s not visible like traditional irrigation systems. With NutraDrip’s support and the integration of innovative tools, they’ve found SDI to be a reliable and efficient solution for their farm.
From Left to RIght: NutraDrip Sales Rep Trevor Halbamaier, Tate Emmanuel, Jordan Emmanuel, and NutraDrip Lead Agronomist Tim Wolfe
