Threemile Canyon Farms, a large-scale operation near Boardman, Oregon, is setting a new standard for agricultural efficiency. The farm, which spans 39,000 irrigated acres and houses 36,000 dairy cows, has been focusing on closed-loop farming and energy efficiency to reduce input costs and environmental impact.
At the heart of Threemile’s approach is a commitment to healthy soils and sustainable practices. The farm grows a variety of crops, including potatoes, wheat, alfalfa, and corn. Waste potatoes and silage corn feed the dairy cows, and the nutrient-rich effluent water from the dairy is used to irrigate the fields. This closed-loop system allows the farm to recycle nutrients and water, reducing the need for external inputs.
Threemile’s partnership with Energy Trust of Oregon, a nonprofit focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy, has been instrumental in achieving these goals. Over the past two decades, the farm has implemented numerous energy-saving projects, resulting in significant cost savings. According to Caryn Appler, senior outreach manager for Energy Trust, these projects have saved Threemile about 39 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and reduced energy costs by $3.3 million.
One of the most impactful projects was upgrading the farm’s irrigation system. By installing variable speed drives on pump stations and relining pipelines, Threemile has been able to reduce energy use and improve water efficiency. The variable speed drives allow for precise control of irrigation, ensuring that each field receives the optimal amount of water. This technology has not only saved energy but also led to more consistent crop yields.
Threemile has also invested in energy-efficient refrigeration units for chilling milk and replaced traditional lighting with LED lights. These upgrades have further reduced the farm’s energy consumption and operating costs. According to Appler, focusing on energy efficiency helps farms manage overhead costs and mitigate the impact of fluctuating grain and equipment prices.
The adoption of advanced technology has also enabled Threemile to optimize crop placement. By analyzing data on soil efficiency and water availability, the farm can determine the best locations for different crops. Shorter season crops are planted in less efficient areas, while long season crops thrive in more optimal conditions. This strategic approach maximizes the farm’s overall productivity and sustainability.
The trend toward technology and efficiency in agriculture is not unique to Threemile. According to Kristine Buckland, an associate professor at Oregon State University, farms must innovate to stay profitable and sustainable. Precision agriculture, which involves using data and technology to apply inputs like water, fertilizers, and pesticides more accurately, is becoming increasingly important. This approach not only benefits the farm’s bottom line but also reduces environmental impact.
Buckland emphasizes that farmers are inherently good stewards of the land. Their livelihoods depend on the health and productivity of their soil, so they have a vested interest in sustainable practices. In the long run, the shift toward precision and efficiency in agriculture will likely benefit both the environment and the farming community.
Threemile Canyon Farms serves as a prime example of how technology and innovation can drive sustainability in agriculture. By focusing on energy efficiency, closed-loop systems, and precision farming, the operation is reducing costs, improving yields, and minimizing its environmental footprint. As other farms follow suit, the agricultural sector as a whole can move toward a more sustainable and efficient future.