A large group of farmers is expected to show up at a meeting in Rocky Ford on Wednesday to protest proposed irrigation efficiency rules for surface irrigation and ask for help in meeting engineering requirements if the rules are put into effect. At approximately the same time, state officials will be huddling on the need and timing of the rules. Water Division 2 Engineer Steve Witte has proposed the rules in an attempt to account for improvements like sprinklers, drip irrigation, concrete ditch lining and pipes. Witte argues increased efficiency will lead to higher consumptive use because it allows farmers to expand acreage or boost yields. The proposed rules do not take into account nonstructural improvements like scheduling or cropping patterns.

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