This project focuses on understanding how no-tillage farming can help oklahoma's winter wheat growers improve crop productivity while saving water

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded the University of Oklahoma a $298,448 Project Grant on August 1, 2026, under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI, CFDA 10.310) to develop satellite-based datasets quantifying water use and water-use efficiency in Oklahoma winter wheat crops under varying tillage and no-tillage farming practices. The research will analyze how crop water consumption patterns relate to farming methods and water availability, with findings intended to inform farmers, policymakers, and researchers on water conservation strategies that maintain yields and support profitability and long-term productivity of Oklahoma winter wheat systems. Work is performed at Norman, Oklahoma with a period of performance from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2028. The University of Oklahoma, operating through its Office of Research Administration, receives the award as the prime recipient.

By using advanced satellite-based tools, we will create datasets that show how much water wheat crops use, how efficiently they use IT, and how these patterns relate to farming practices like tillage and no-tillage. These data will help farmers and researchers see which methods conserve water and maintain yields under varying water availability conditions. Our work supports national efforts to promote sustainable farming, providing valuable information to producers, policymakers, and scientists to improve water use efficiency, reduce inputs, and support the profitability and long-term productivity of oklahoma winter wheat systems.