Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Too Many Heads / Sprinklers!

Looks like there are a lot of heads!  Maybe too many?

Looks like there is a lot going on, any way we can clean it up?

These are the most common responses received, the first time an irrigation plan is reviewed.  Irrigation plans are much more functional than visually appealing. 

Distribution uniformity describes how even the water is being applied throughout an irrigation zone.  If we place measuring cups in different locations, we want close to the same measurements of water.  
One aspect of irrigation design, that affects distribution uniformity, is head spacing.  A designer uses personal experience, manufacturerer's data, and site condtions to decide on the best head spacing.  Approriately spaced heads results in a higher distribution uniformity.  Heads spaced too far apart results in a lower distribution uniformity.

A low distibution uniformity rate results in a mix of over and under watered areas.  A high distibution uniformity rate results in minimizing water use and maximizing plant health.  Yes it is true that water in our area is viewed as being cheap, but replacing plants is not.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Working with an Irrigation Consultant: How to Get Started

I was recently told that many engineers and landscape architects are not sure how to work with an irrigation consultant.  Below are the best instructions to get started:

  • Email us details about your project and include questions and concerns you may have.
  • Call us.
Yes this seems overly simple, and we try to make it that way.  You have enough to worry about with your project.  We also understand that you may not have a strong background in irrigation.  That is OK.  That is why our company exists.