12 Green Media July 2014 www.greenmediaonline.com
Special Feature
that prevent sprinklers from distributing water evenly. Adjust
sprinkler head positions and spray patterns to avoid watering
sidewalks or structures and to provide necessary clearance over
growing plants.
• Check the pressure. Pressure can change over time and
negatively affect system efficiency.
• Install a rain shutoff switch. These inexpensive sensors can be
retrofitted to almost any system and help compensate for natural
rainfall by turning off the system in rainy weather.
• Consider "Smart" technology. Climate or soil moisture
sensor-based controllers evaluate weather or soil moisture con-
ditions and then automatically adjust the irrigation schedule to
meet the specific needs of the landscape.
• Consider low volume, micro-irrigation for gardens, trees
and shrubs. Drip (or trickle) irrigation, micro spray jets, micro-
sprinklers and bubbler irrigation all apply a very small amount of
water, slowly and precisely, minimizing evaporation, runoff and
overspray.
• Audit the system. Conduct an irrigation audit and uniformi-
ty test to verify areas are being watered evenly and appropriately,
and make necessary adjustments.
• Look for savings. Again, many water utilities offer rebates
for certain water-efficient products. Before upgrading the new
system, consult with your local water provider.
• Winterize in colder climates. Flush out water that could
freeze and crack pipes, valves and sprinklers.
Whether your company is large or small — a manufacturer,
distributor, contractor, consultant, or municipality — it's easy
to be Smart. The Irrigation Association has a number of free
resources available online at www.smartirrigationmonth.org.
• Download logos and press release samples.
• Visit the Smart Irrigation Month YouTube channel for real-
world examples of industry efforts to promote Smart irrigation
• Participate in the Smart Marketing Contest, which rec-
ognizes groups that are promoting Smart Irrigation Month in
interesting and compelling ways.
• Join the Smart Irrigation Month Thunderclap social media
campaign.
Smart Irrigation Month is an initiative of the Irrigation
Association, a nonprofit industry organization dedicated to pro-
moting efficient irrigation. Visit www.irrigation.org to learn more.
Article provided by the Irrigation Association.
LI
LI
Before upgrading the new
system, consult with your
local water provider.
