Melanie Stock and Claudia Nischwitz at Utah State University (USU) are leading a project funded by the Utah Specialty Crop Block Grant to develop efficient irrigation strategies for dahlias, a popular cut flower in Utah. 

As demand for cut flowers, especially dahlias, grows, local farmers face challenges in cultivating them effectively. Dahlias are the most requested flower for local farms, particularly for direct sales to florists. However, they are difficult to grow, requiring precise care and irrigation. Existing irrigation recommendations come from regions with different climates, leaving Utah farmers without clear, relevant guidance. 

The project, running from 2023-2024, involves testing five irrigation rates on 550 dahlias of two varieties: ‘Boom Boom White’ and ‘Café au Lait.’ The goal is to reduce water usage by up to 50% while maintaining plant health and optimizing yield. 

Early findings show that dahlias need less water than expected. By monitoring soil moisture, plant stress, and growth patterns, the team is developing water-conserving practices that don’t harm the plants. The project has garnered strong interest from local farmers, eager to learn more efficient irrigation methods. Educational events and outreach are being organized to share these findings with the broader farming community. 

Although final analysis is still in progress, early results suggest farmers could reduce irrigation by up to 50%. This project is the first of its kind for dahlias in Utah, and its success could guide irrigation practices for other cut flowers in the future. At the 2025 Utah Cut Flower Farm Conference, nearly all respondents stated they planned to adopt the research findings within the year. 

This project not only helps farmers improve water efficiency but also offers a model for sustainable agriculture in Utah’s flower farming industry.

• Tenderness and perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursey crops and herbs;
• Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control;
• Packaging to prevent damage;
• Moving perishables to market quickly; and
• Higher labor costs.

MASC covers the following commercially marketed specialty crops grown in the US:

• Fruits (fresh, dried);
• Vegetables (including dry edible beans and peas, mushrooms, and vegetable seed);
• Tree nuts;
• Nursery crops, Christmas trees, and floriculture;
• Culinary and medicinal herbs and spices; and
• Honey, hops, maple sap, tea, turfgrass, and grass seed.

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) has received reports of a large number of reported missing and harmed livestock in the state this year, adding to an alarming trend that has been increasing over the past few years.

“Our department has been investigating a substantial amount of cases of missing livestock and suspicious livestock deaths this year,” said Leann Hunting, UDAF animal industry director. “While we don’t know the exact cause of the increase in cases, it is very concerning and we want to raise awareness of these happenings.”

As of July 2022, UDAF has received missing livestock reports for 77 cattle, five horses/mules, and one sheep/goat; of those 83 animals, seven have been found. The department has also received seven reports of suspicious livestock deaths that are currently under investigation.Historical trends indicate that a rise in these occurrences are expected to increase into the fall months. Livestock producers should be vigilant and herds should be monitored closely. Any instances of missing or harmed livestock should be reported to the local brand inspector.

UDAF is asking the public to be vigilant and watch for any suspicious activity. A reward of $20,000 is offered for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person involved in the theft, mutilation, or malicious killing of livestock. Reports can be made to the UDAF livestock investigator at 435-419-0021.

Announcing the second episode of our brand new UDAF Animated Series!

For most people, when it comes to water and agriculture there are a lot of unknowns, myths, and misconceptions. Check out our latest animation to learn more about agricultural water use and how UDAF is working to help farmers improve water efficiency.

Applications for the next round of Water Optimization grant funding open August 1 – September 1.

Watch our newest episode here:

As we head into the summer months, click here to view the most up-to-date version of UDAF’s Hay and Drought Resource Page.