Today, we can answer many questions farmers have about using their drain pipes to irrigate. But we are a long way from having the knowledge to take full advantage of this important practice. The research effort at Michigan State University is moving from the macro-view toward a more intense and detailed micro-view. Researchers are searching for answers to the basic water table management questions that address soil quality, crop ecology and agricultural sustainability. For example, can the water table be managed to enhance the physical infrastructure resulting from reduced tillage systems; can the water table be managed to improve the habitat for beneficial farm biota; can water table management contribute to managing pests and diseases with minimal environmental impact; can water table management be used to enhance the energy flow in agricultural ecosystems? In other words, can the water table be managed to contribute to holistic farming systems that are sustainable without economic penalty. If so, the importance of water table management to agriculture will continue to grow and broaden.