California Agricultural Irrigation Association Named IA Partner

The California Agricultural Irrigation Association, which promotes irrigation efficiency in the world’s seventh largest agricultural economy, has been named Irrigation Association 2007 Partner of the Year.

The Partner of the Year Award will be presented Dec. 10 during the IA general session at the 28th Annual International Irrigation Show in San Diego.

“This award recognizes a great partnership that strengthens both organizations and advances our shared mission to promote irrigation efficiency,” said IA Executive Director Deborah Hamlin.

The CAIA regularly brings irrigation education to California growers, effectively promoting its message of “more crop with every drop,” said Andy Smith, IA director of state and affiliate relations. The organization also encourages agricultural equipment dealers to work with growers to optimize irrigation efficiency.

California has 8.5 million acres of irrigated farmland. With $32 billion in annual farm revenues, the state boasts the largest agricultural economy in the U.S. and the seventh largest agricultural economy in the world.

The CAIA has strong relationships with the state government and California’s federal lawmakers, and it has kept the Irrigation Association connected to relevant agencies.

“The CAIA has worked to make sure elected officials understand the importance of irrigation to California’s future,” said former IA President David Zoldoske, director of the Center for Irrigation Technology in Fresno, Calif.

CAIA is preparing for the industry’s future as well, Zoldoske said. “The group has raised thousands of dollars to provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in irrigation.”

“The CAIA has led by example and earned the recognition of Irrigation Association Partner of the Year,” Zoldoske said.