In early 1954 it was believed that soil moisture reserves in Iowa were at an unusually low level and that crop production potential was seriously reduced. To estimate the supply of soil moisture present at that time, a statewide study of soil moisture conditions was initiated.

An examination of these data in relation to crop production potential for the following season showed a lack of basic information on water use and availability in Iowa, although many fragments of general information were available. To obtain information on these problems an expanded program was established on soil moisture measurement and water utilization.