Configurations Of Farm Irrigation Systems

By Joseph Reynolds


Farming in modern times has developed a set of techniques for providing needed moisture to the crops. There are several that are available in order to accommodate several different types of landscaping and needs. Certain crops need certain types of farm irrigation systems in order to maximize growth potential in the ever increasing competitive global agriculture market. Choosing the right system depends on the crop and the type of land it is growing in.

Surface irrigation systems are simple and usually require no mechanical pump to set up and operate. This simple process uses gravity to move the water through channels between the rows to practically flood the field. This system has been in place for thousands of years and is one of the most common systems in use in the world today. Because of its simplicity and reduced need for mechanical intervention, it is also considered one of the most cost-effective in place.

Localized systems are made to get water close to the ground. This helps to get water to the roots without worrying about evaporation. The pipes are laid between the rows of crops. This is better for crops that cannot endure the flooded field from using a surface irrigation configuration.

Sprinklers are made to spray water high and far at the same time. This helps to simulate a rainy day. The equipment is set on the edge or middle of the fields and simply sprays water as far as possible. Using this configuration helps get water out without having specialized equipment that needs to be moved daily.

The central pivot configuration also uses the sprinkler system. The equipment is designed to rotate on wheels around a central point, spraying the water out as it moves. It usually takes a full day, depending on the size and speed set, for the equipment to make the full circle. Since the equipment stays in the same place, there is no need to reconnect the hoses as would be needed in the lateral equipment.

Lateral movement equipment often uses the same equipment as the central pivot. In this case, the equipment either moves mechanically or is manually moved along the length of the field. The disadvantage here is the need to have several connection points to a water supply placed throughout the field. As the equipment moves, it must have the hoses connected to the next water riser. This requires someone to monitor the field every few hours to move the hoses.

Sub-irrigation systems are used to raise the water table under the crops. Typically, the system has a number of underground pipes that will allow water to be transported below ground. This water then is absorbed directly by the root system, rather than having to travel through the surface to get to the roots. This works well in areas that have extreme heat and would have significant evaporation. They also work well for indoor situations where sprinklers and other above ground systems wouldn't work. The excess water is easily collected and reused.

With food being grown in various environments and landscapes, the different types of irrigation processes are designed to address each problem that may arise. Having the right type of equipment and process in place makes the job of growing crops easier and more cost effective.




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