We help our clients to assess irrigation system performance for the following reasons:

• Independent check when commissioning an irrigation system to ensure it is operating as designed.

• Resource consent condition compliance.

• Farm environmental plan requirements.

• Underperformance of system identified (may be due to changes to an irrigation system e.g. irrigator upgrades).

If an issue is identified, then we can provide advice on next steps to improve performance. This may include advice on repairs/maintenance and operational management. In some cases, further testing and modelling may be required to identify possible future upgrades.

The project scope is tailored to the requirements of each client depending on the level of assessment required. The three main types of assessment are: bucket test, irrigation evaluation and irrigation system modelling.

Bucket Test

A quick field test, focusing on application depth uniformity, to identify whether there is a problem and whether further testing may be required.

Irrigation Evaluation

Full system field checks from the water supply through to the irrigator are undertaken and checked against design specifications, including:

• Water supply — Check correct flow and pressure delivered at headworks.

• Delivery system —  Check correct flow and pressure is delivered to irrigator.

• Irrigator —  Check application depth and uniformity. Check sprinkler pressures and pressure regulator performance (if installed).

Irrigation System Modelling

Develop a model of the irrigation system (water supply, delivery system and irrigators) to assess current performance and identify operational constraints and areas for improvement.

The table below summarises key findings, issues and solutions for projects that we have been involved in, when completing an irrigation evaluation and irrigation modelling.

To enlarge view, hover over the table and select the enlarge button.