Leveraging Big Data to Preserve the Mississippi River Valley Alluvial Aquifer: A Blueprint for the National Center for Alluvial Aquifer Research

Abstract

The challenge of a depleting Mississippi River Valley Alluvial Aquifer (MRVAA) requires reducing groundwater withdrawal for irrigation, increasing aquifer recharge, and protecting water quality for sustainable water use. To meet the challenge, the National Center for Alluvial Aquifer Research (NCAAR) is oriented towards producing scientific work aimed at improving irrigation methods and scheduling, employing alternative water sources, and improving crop management and field practices to increase water use efficiency across the region. Big data is key for NCAAR success. Its scientists use big data for research in the form of various soil, weather, geospatial, and water monitoring and management devices to collect agronomic or hydrogeologic data. They also produce, process, and analyze big data which are converted to scientific publications and farm management recommendations via technology transfer. Similarly, decision tools that would help producers leverage the wealth of data they generate from their operations will also be developed and made available to them. This article outlines some of the many ways big data is intertwined with NCAAR’s mission.