Ashburton's Eugene Cronin says the recognition for his irrigation work is pretty satisfying.

Eugene and Sarah Cronin have claimed the title of Supreme Winners at the 2024 Zimmatic Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards, recognized for their innovative approach to sustainable irrigation and water management.

The announcement was made at an awards evening in Wellington on November 6.

"It's nice to see recognition for the work we are doing and the work that the wider industry is doing," Eugene Cronin said.

Cronin is a farm supervisor for Dairy Holdings and is sharemilking under the name Kilmurry Farms at Falstone Farm, north of Ashburton, for David and Sonia Molloy, supplying Synlait.

In addition to winning the Supreme Award, the Cronin’s also won the Irricon Resource Solutions—Sustainable Irrigation Management Award category.

Judges noted Cronin's deep technical understanding of soil moisture and irrigation management.

Head Judge and Irrigation NZ chairperson Keri Johnson praised his passion and expertise.

"Eugene demonstrated an advanced level of understanding of soil moisture and irrigation management. His depth of technical system and infrastructure knowledge is outstanding," she said.

"You can see the passion he has for what he's doing. His great use of data, and ability to share it in a meaningful way, truly sets him apart."

Cronin uses soil moisture measurement technology, which he says matches the crop's demands with soil moisture data and its growth stage. He also uses an app for monitoring and recording the irrigation and maintenance schedules.

"On-farm data is the vehicle we use to monitor soil temperature and moisture, and that's a big part of daily life on this farm."

Cronin said that efficient and sustainable water use was important to the dairy industry's future.

"In order to have the social licence to farm intensively, we have to be environmental stewards, and part of that is using water efficiently."

Cronin said that publications contain a lot of information, much of which is free, and he encourages farmers to "read what's out there."

"The biggest gain you will get is doing the basics of irrigation right."

Cronin credited farm owners David and Sonia Molloy for their support and said he is grateful to the sponsors for supporting the awards and to the other contestants, who were of a high calibre.

"It made us feel even more privileged to be in the top spot."

Cronin was one of three category winners, each receiving a prize pack that included travel vouchers for a 2025 irrigation study tour.

Ashburton farmers Ben and Shannon Johnson also received the Irricon Resource Solutions NZ Irrigation-Driven Improvements Award.

Although yet to be confirmed, it's looking likely the tour group will visit farming operations in the United States.

Cronin is looking forward to seeing what technology is being utilised by American farmers and bringing new ideas back home.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what other styles of irrigation are out there and what new innovation is available to use on our farms here in New Zealand," Cronin said.

The Zimmatic Trailblazer Sustainable Irrigation Awards were launched in 2020 to showcase outstanding achievements in sustainable irrigation and are held bi-annually, alternating between Australia and New Zealand

The awards spotlight farmers who demonstrate leadership in responsible irrigation techniques, innovative water management strategies, and environmental stewardship.

By Claire Inkson