FRESNO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In recognition of more than a quarter-century spent on the development and adaptation of subsurface drip irrigation through field research, education and support of the microirrigation community of scientists, Freddie R. Lamm, P.E., has been named recipient of the first Netafim Award for Advancement in Microirrigation.
The award, presented by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) in partnership with drip irrigation leader, Netafim, honors and recognizes an ASABE member each year who has made significant contributions in the ability to utilize and adapt microirrigation technology at an appropriate scale for any given level of production technology. Lamm, whose research on subsurface drip irrigation has greatly influenced field productivity in the Midwest and other areas of the world, was named winner of the inaugural award at the ASABE’s annual international meeting held in Montreal, Quebec last month.
“It is an honor to be named the first recipient of the Netafim Award for Advancement in Microirrigation. It is a technology that is well suited to the water challenges of this century and on behalf of my research team, it is our hope that this award will not only highlight the advancements made thus far in microirrigation, but also serve to encourage current and future leaders to build on these stepwise advancements, and ultimately increase the adoption of this highly efficient irrigation method,” said Lamm.
Specializing in water management for grain and oilseed crops, and in the design and management for irrigation systems, Lamm has spent the last 25 years leading efforts at KSU to broaden the adaptation and adoption of SDI technology for field crop production.
“Freddie’s commitment and leadership to the advancement of SDI use in field crops has played a significant role in the development and rapid growth of the drip irrigation industry,” said Ze’ev Barylka, marketing director for Netafim USA. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with the ASABE to honor this most deserving individual as the first recipient of the Netafim Award for Advancement in Microirrigation.”
A 35-year member of the ASABE, Lamm has authored or coauthored more than 315 refereed journal articles, conference papers and technical and trade publications. In addition to his many career accolades, he was named Irrigation Association Person of the Year in 2012 for his research on the development and management of advanced irrigation systems.
“We look forward to continuing our work with Freddie and his team at Kansas State University on expanding the use of SDI by providing the innovative tools and technologies that enable improved yield potential and productivity, while reducing costs, labor and water use,” added Barylka.
The ASABE is an international educational and scientific organization dedicated to the advancement of engineering applicable to biological, food and agricultural systems. Founded in 1907, ASABE members reside and work in more than 100 countries. The Society also serves 1,200 pre-professional members in 80 university chapters across the United States and Canada.
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ABOUT NETAFIM USA
Netafim USA, based in Fresno, Calif., develops and manufactures drip irrigation systems for agriculture, landscape & turf, greenhouse & nursery, mining and wastewater. Netafim offers an extensive range of irrigation solutions including driplines, filters, sprinklers, valves, water meters and automation equipment for complete dripline system installations. For more information go to www.netafimusa.com.
