The farm on the campus of California State University, Fresno will soon be home to a state‐of‐the‐art demonstration facility for innovative water and energy management technologies in agriculture. Bolstered by $450,000 in funding from the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and supported by irrigation and water technology manufacturers, the Center will be a location to demonstrate how innovation can save significant amounts of energy and water and preserve water quality in agricultural operations across the Central Valley.

With nearly 1,000 acres and various enterprises including, vineyards, fruit orchards, nut orchards, row crops, dairy and winery, the Fresno State Farm is a microcosm of the San Joaquin Valley. A wide variety of full‐scale production units will be available to demonstrate how farmers, ranchers, and students can benefit from new water and energy technologies and management – all in a central, easily‐accessible location. The Center for Irrigation Technology at Fresno State will be working with manufacturers to design, install and monitor the most advanced water‐ and energy‐saving systems available.

“We are looking forward to working with PG&E and others to create this center that will focus on the water/energy nexus and education,” said David Zoldoske, CIT director. “Saving water and energy is important in supporting the agricultural industry across California to continue to grow, prosper and feed the world. We are excited about being able to help educate the ag community with innovative ideas and resources,” added Zoldoske.

Anyone interested in becoming a partner in the AgWaterEnergy Center vision can contact the Center for Irrigation Technology at (559) 278‐2066 or visit www.californiawater.org. Educational seminars are expected to begin in Summer 2013.