The Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District established the Irrigation Management Service in 1981. IMS is part of Northern Water's commitment to water conservation.

The program promotes the wise use of water through improved irrigation management. Program benefits include:

• increased utilization of and benefits from water resources;
• reduction of drought impacts;
• increased environmental quality and aesthetics; 
• increased economic vitality of the region, and
• safeguarding water quality and public health.

IMS assists area farmers and turf managers without charge in practical application of irrigation principles and technologies to improve water management and conservation on a voluntary basis. The program has been operating for more than 20 years. 

The Irrigation Management department includes a total of six full-time staff positions. Additionally, up to three college students are hired each summer to assist in field work, primarily with demostrations at Northern Water's Berthoud headquarters.