Water is a pivotal element of agriculture. Irrigation water can also be a conduit for pathogens to reach our food, and must be closely monitored to protect human health. Contamination of water by pathogenic E.coli bacteria or other pathogens can significantly impact food safety and can cause illness outbreaks in humans. With a global population expected to reach nearly 10 billion people in 2050, ensuring sustainable agriculture and production is imperative. The use of advanced, automated and IoT-connected microbiological analysis tools enable real-time tracking and prevention, ensuring that our agriculture remains safe, productive, and environmentally friendly.