Drip Irrigation Pioneer Celebrates its 50th Anniversary and Ushers In The Next Era of Farming Productivity at the World's Largest Agricultural Expo



Netafim USANetafim USA, the global leader in irrigation, celebrated 50 years of drip irrigation innovation during the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. Marking five decades since the company first changed the face of global agriculture by introducing the world to drip irrigation technology, Netafim USA CEO John Vikupitz addressed the positive impact of Netafim's drip irrigation technology on the agriculture industry over the past half century during a press conference held in conjunction with the company's participation at the 2015 World Ag Expo.

"The 50th anniversary is a milestone that gives us the opportunity to share our story, achievements and goals as the world leader in drip irrigation," said Vikupitz. "Five decades after being established by a group of Israeli farmers in 1965 as a solution to the lack of quality water for food production, Netafim has continued to help farmers overcome challenges, increase yields and reduce costs by providing access to the most innovative water saving crop management solutions available."

While reaffirming the company's commitment to driving the mass adoption of smart irrigation solutions to fight scarcity of food, water, and land, Vikupitz stressed that a large part of Netafim¹s success has resulted from collaboration with industry leaders, partners and growers.

"Recent innovations such as the lower cost, easy-to-install PolyNet system and the center pivot based (PMDI) Precision Mobile Drip Irrigation system are examples of how Netafim listened to its customers, and redefined its core mission to help growers grow more with less," added Vikupitz. "More than just products, they truly represent Netafim¹s desire to continually push the boundaries of what is possible, and deliver viable solutions to help farmers address the challenges of modern agriculture."

As for the next 50 years, Vikupitz sees significant challenges as the world¹s rapidly growing population places increased production demands on farmers.

"We are undergoing a transformative time, where the convergence of environment, culture and technology are changing the face of farming. The need to maximize productivity while using less resources will be the challenge of this new era of farming," said Vikupitz.

He continued, "As production demands mount, growers are turning to drip irrigation systems as a crop management tool. By enabling precision application of water and nutrients during the critical growth stages of a crop, Netafim¹s drip irrigation solutions empower growers with improved control over many of the variables that ultimately affect a crop¹s yield potential."

Attended by an audience of media, Netafim employees and invited guests, the event concluded with a luncheon and a toast to the next 50 years of Netafim drip irrigation.

Learn more at NetafimUSA.com, on Facebook at Facebook.com/NetafimUSA, Twitter @NetafimUSA and on Youtube at NetafimUSA.

ABOUT NETAFIM USA
Netafim USA, based in Fresno, Calif., develops and manufactures drip irrigation systems for agriculture, landscape & turf, greenhouse & nursery, mining and wastewater. Netafim offers an extensive range of irrigation solutions including driplines, filters, sprinklers, valves, water meters and automation equipment for complete dripline system installations. For more information go to www.netafimusa.com.
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2.19.2015