SWOT ANALYSIS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FERTIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

Abstract

The relevance of the article is driven by the need to introduce innovative technologies to ensure sustainable agricultural production and food security in the country. Fertigation, as a method of simultaneous irrigation and fertilization, is examined in the context of improving resource efficiency, crop yield, and environmental sustainability in agricultural production. The authors identify key trends in the development of the fertigation technology market, including the growing demand for climate-smart agricultural practices, the adoption of IoT solutions, and process automation. Within the framework of a SWOT analysis, the strengths of fertigation, such as enhanced resource efficiency and environmental sustainability, are analyzed, along with its weaknesses, including high initial costs and a shortage of skilled personnel. Opportunities for intensifying the adoption of fertigation technologies in agricultural production, such as government support and the growth of the organic products market, are explored. The necessity of a comprehensive approach to advancing this precision agriculture method is justified, including the development of domestic equipment production, educational programs, and public-private partnerships. Recommendations are proposed to overcome barriers and ensure the successful implementation of fertigation technologies in Russian agriculture.