Energy assessments of irrigation systems across the Murray Darling Basin have highlighted huge opportunities to improve irrigation energy efficiency. However, many farms still ask: How can I tell if my irrigation system is energy efficient? What are the likely costs and benefits of improving the energy efficiency of my system? [...]
Upgrading irrigation infrastructure to achieve higher operational efficiencies and water productivity can present a significant upfront cost and knowing if it is the correct decision is not always straightforward. In a recent project two farms in the Murrumbidgee were studied with capital costs for irrigation improvements costing $237,500 (Farm 1) [...]
NSW Department of Primary Industries Tocal College have a free Irrigation 101 online course available. The course contains fundamental information on irrigation systems and management and is a valuable resource for those new to irrigation, or those who would like to expand their knowledge in different irrigation systems. The Irrigation [...]
With the ongoing dry conditions affecting the state, groundwater is likely to be a major contributor to irrigation supplies this coming summer. However, unlike fresh surface water, groundwater contains salts. The application of these salts to soils can lead to problems with both soil salinity and sodicity and may ultimately [...]
Head loss is the drop in water level as water flows through a structure or along a channel. This video uses a scale model to visually demonstrate the effect that different sized structures, incorrectly installed structures and poorly maintained channels can have on head loss and flow rate. Special thanks [...]
To manage citrus orchards with less water requires an understanding of your orchard’s water requirements and the impacts of water stress. There are a variety of options to consider when managing an orchard with reduced water availability. When considering these options, careful planning, including the use of a water budget [...]
Irrigation system selection is an important aspect of setting up or upgrading horticultural enterprises. There are many different types of irrigation systems available, and in many cases there is no single best solution for any given situation. Each irrigation system type has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the situation, [...]
A variable speed drive (VSD) is used to adjust a pump’s flow or pressure to the field requirements (actual demand). Adopting VSDs in irrigation was historically for operational reasons such as providing constant pressure outputs, ‘soft starts’, or reducing pump wear. More recently, as energy prices continue to rise, the [...]
