Irrigation Methods Used in California: Grower Survey

A statewide survey was conducted during 1992 to determine which methods growers used to irrigate their crops in 1991. A questionnaire was distributed to 10,000 of the estimated 80,000 growers in California. Respondents represent nearly 6 of the total 1991 irrigated crop land in California. A comparison with studies done during 1972 and 1980 showed that the amount of land irrigated by surface methods has declined, while the amount of land irrigated by sprinkler and drip methods has increased. The area planted to field crops has declined, while that planted to permanent crops such as fruit and nut trees and grapevines has increased. A rapid increase in the use of drip irrigation in vineyards is the most significant change.