Irrigation Association announces 2024 award recipients

The Irrigation Association, Fairfax, Virginia, announced the recipients of its 2024 awards, celebrating contributions in education, innovation and industry achievement. 

Excellence in Education Award: Dave Goorahoo 

Dave Goorahoo, PhD, of California State University, Fresno, has been honored with the 2024 Excellence in Education Award. Goorahoo’s 24-year tenure at the university includes roles as a research soil scientist for the Center for Irrigation Technology and currently as a vegetable crops production professor in the department of plant science. He has developed numerous irrigation-related courses and training programs and has actively promoted irrigation careers to his students.  

“Dave Goorahoo has shown an extraordinary commitment and dedication to the success of his students and the future workforce of the irrigation industry,” says IA CEO Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE. “His passion for irrigation and education is contagious, and his commitment to fostering excellence in the next generation of irrigation professionals is truly inspiring.” 

Vanguard Award: Goldcrest Farms Project 

The 2024 Vanguard Award has been awarded to Valley Irrigation’s Goldcrest Farms project. The project transformed 25,000 acres of neglected dryland farmland in Arkansas into a state-of-the-art farming operation through advanced irrigation infrastructure and technologies. The project features precision-leveled farmland, optimized water usage and reduced operational costs. 

“The Goldcrest Farms project stands as a prime example of how sustainable irrigation solutions can be realized through creativity and effective collaboration,” says Rankin. “By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering a strong partnership, the project highlights the profound impact that smart irrigation can have on revitalizing farmland and advancing sustainable agriculture.” 

Industry Achievement Award: Carmelo Giuffrè 

Carmelo Giuffrè of Irritec USA and Irritec SpA has been named the recipient of the 2024 Industry Achievement Award, the highest honor given by the Irrigation Association. Giuffrè founded Irritec SpA in Italy in 1974 and has grown it into a global leader in irrigation innovation and sustainability. Under his leadership, Irritec has expanded its intellectual property portfolio and promoted efficient irrigation techniques worldwide. 

“A visionary in the field, Carmelo Giuffrè’s dedication to research and development has significantly improved irrigation efficiency and promoted water conservation worldwide,” says Rankin. “His work has driven essential advancements that benefit global agricultural practices and enhance food security.” 

The 2024 IA Awards are sponsored by Hunter, FX Luminaire and Senninger, and all recipients will be honored at the 2024 Irrigation Show and Education Week in Long Beach, California, Nov. 4-7.