Distribution Uniformity

Today we were met with gray skies and very little wind. It was a perfect day to audit the irrigation system. Distribution uniformity has everything to do with successful irrigation control. There are so many variables to balance for proper irrigation that include wind, slope, soil, turf type and accuracy of the sprinkler head.

Today we placed catch cups out on various greens on the course to determine how, if any changes are needed for irrigating greens in the future. The cups are spaced evenly across the green and each head is turned on to simulate a normal irrigation cycle. The goal is to record even totals across the green.

Some areas turned out to be lighter or heavier than others. This data can assist us with correcting nozzles in the sprinkler heads. The plastic nozzles decrease in efficiency over time and need to be replaced accordingly.

The second picture is a pressure test on the flow coming out at the nozzle. The valve in the head is regulated for 65 pounds per square inch (psi). This green passed with measurements within 60-65 psi on all four irrigation heads.