Agricultural producers’ perspectives on climate‐related water challenges and irrigation technology adoption in a rural, water‐stressed region: A case study of Southwest Oklahoma

Abstract Increasing uncertainties in water availability have created challenges for agricultural producers in managing water resources. Understanding farmers’ water use practices as well as their perception on water challenges and irrigation technology adoption is essential for developing effective water management strategies. The study explored the perspective of farmers on water‐related concerns, water management practices, and irrigation technology adoption in the rural, water‐stressed region of Southwest Oklahoma, with a focus on irrigation, livestock, and drinking water. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 24 agricultural producers across the study region. The results showed that water availability and quality were of primary concern to the participants regarding irrigation water sources in the region. Livestock producers expressed quality concerns in ponds and wells and felt impelled to explore alternative water sources to safeguard livestock health. While most participants considered their drinking water source dependable, concerns regarding quality, taste, and aging infrastructure were noted. The study also highlights the perspectives of farmers in irrigation technology adoption. Participants valued affordable, reliable, and user‐friendly technologies to support them in irrigation management. Although some participants were reluctant to integrate technology into their farming practices, most of them expressed willingness to adopt if the barriers such as cost, complexity, and reliability were addressed. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of integrating farmers’ perspective into the development of water management strategies, given their efforts to water saving strategies and openness to technology adoption.