معرفی
Jonathan Aguilar is a Professor in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering at Kansas State University, based at the Southwest Research and Extension Center in Garden City, KS. He is a key figure in agricultural water management, focusing on irrigation technologies and water conservation in western Kansas.
- Ph.D., Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, 2009
- M.Sc., Agricultural Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, 2005
- B.Sc., Land and Water Resources Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, 1996
His research centers on water resource issues in irrigated agriculture, with major contributions in Mobile Drip Irrigation (MDI), Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI), soil moisture sensing, and evapotranspiration-based irrigation scheduling. He integrates GIS, remote sensing, and hydrological modeling to enhance water use efficiency. Aguilar has led numerous extension programs supporting producers and county agents in adopting advanced irrigation technologies.
The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on evaluating MDI systems against traditional sprinkler methods (LESA, LEPA), assessing water distribution, evaporation, runoff, yield, and economic feasibility. His work consistently emphasizes improving irrigation efficiency, reducing water loss, and adapting to limited water conditions, particularly in the context of the Ogallala Aquifer. Collaborative research with institutions across the U.S. underscores his leadership in sustainable irrigation practices.
His scientific recognition includes:
- Big 12 Fellowship Award (2014)
- ASABE Blue Ribbon Award – Educational Aids Division (2015)
- Inductee, Alpha Epsilon Honor Society (2008)
- Special Recognition by the Philippine Board of Professional Agricultural Engineers
Aguilar has authored six high-impact journal articles, delivered over 50 presentations (including seven invited), and mentored through USDA-ARS programs. He leads the Water Management Program at K-State Research and Extension, providing technical leadership on irrigation technology adoption, groundwater quality, and conservation strategies. His work directly supports sustainable farming in water-scarce regions.
He is actively involved in field research at the Southwest Research-Extension Center, where he conducts trials on MDI, SDI, and soil moisture sensors. His team collaborates with the Kansas Water Office, KSRE, and producers to implement and evaluate Water Technology Farms. The Mobile Irrigation Lab and online tools like the Multi-Year Crop Water Allocator further extend his outreach and impact.
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