03 - IRRIGATION
Irrigation is essential to maintaining healthy turfgrass and landscape areas. Proper irrigation helps to maintain optimal course playability, aesthetics, marketability and turfgrass stress reduction.
A good irrigation management plan can also drive efficiencies through extending equipment life, stabilizing labor costs, minimizing risks, and reducing repair needs. A critical consideration for golf course superintendents is to minimize water use, especially excess use from potable sources. Annual rainfall ranges from 56 inches in southeast areas of the state to less than 8 inches in the far west, and frost-free days range from 320 near Brownsville to less than 185 in the Panhandle. With a serious history of droughts, the State of Texas has placed significant focus on water conservation. Finding an effective balance between conserving water and golf course maintenance is critical from a regulatory perspective and in consideration of meeting golfers’ expectations for turfgrass conditions and protecting owner’s investments while demonstrating good environmental stewardship.
Golfers generally prefer firm, dry playing conditions. A wet, soggy golf course is not desirable and should be avoided whenever possible. In general, drier conditions help minimize disease, algae and turfgrass pests, improve soil aeration, reduce the risk of compaction and ruts, and provide for overall healthier turfgrass and more desirable playing conditions.
There are several water-management approaches which may be utilized:
Conservation and Efficiency: Conservation and efficiency consider the strategic use of appropriate course and irrigation design, plant selection, computerized and data-integrated scheduling, and alternative water quality/supply options that maximize plant health benefits and reduce the potential for negative impacts on natural resources.
Resource Protection: Resource protection is a cohesive approach that includes irrigation practices as part of course design, pesticide and nutrient practices, regulatory compliance measures, and structural measures as they concern environmental stewardship and policy.
Embracing Irrigation BMPs
There are several benefits to adopting BMPs for irrigation, including environmental, performance, and employee impacts:
• Conserve and protect the water supply
• Increase water efficiency
• Protect existing water quality
• Maintain optimal ball roll and playing conditions
• Reduce energy costs and facility’s carbon footprint through saving electricity
• Increase pump and equipment life longevity
• Demonstrate responsible environmental stewardship
• Retain knowledgeable and effective employees
• Align with state water conservation and preservation goals; comply with regulations
Regulatory Considerations
Golf course owners are responsible for contacting federal, state, and local water use authorities at the pre-and post-construction phase to determine annual or specific water consumption (water rights), permitting guidelines, and other regulatory requirements.
The State of Texas prioritizes conserving, protecting, and maintaining the biological soundness of surface and groundwater for the public’s economic health and general well-being. Numerous regulations and governing bodies are in place on a state, regional, and local level.
Surface Water
Surface water in Texas is owned by the state and held in trust for the citizens of the state. State water is defined by Texas Water Code (TWC) § 11.021 as: the water of the ordinary flow, underflow, and tides of every flowing river, natural stream, and lake, and every bay or arm of the Gulf of Mexico, and the storm water, floodwater, and rainwater of every river, natural stream, canyon, ravine, depression, and watershed in the state is property of the state. The right to the use of state water may be acquired by appropriation. When the right to use state water is lawfully acquired, it may be taken or diverted from its natural channel. The Water Rights Permitting Application must be submitted through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
TWC § 11.235: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/WA/htm/WA.11.htm#11.325
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/water_rights/wr-permitting/wr_applications.html#process
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/permitting/forms/10214a.pdf
Water Divisions are structured throughout the state, under TWC, a watermaster may be appointed to a Water Division to ensure compliance with water rights and coordinate diversions to prevent waste or excess use. In the Brazos, Concho, and Rio Grande River basins, watermasters allocate water between users and ensure compliance with water rights. Before diverting Texas state water, a declaration of intent must be made and approved by the watermaster of the Water Division. A water use report must be submitted to TCEQ for water rights by March 1 each year.
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/water_rights/wmaster/about-wm
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/legal/rules/rules/pdflib/304b.pdf
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/permitting/forms/wur_instructions.pdf
Groundwater
Groundwater is owned by the landowner as real property. Groundwater Management Areas (GMAs) are delineated by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) which has designated 16 GMAs and recognizes 30 aquifers in the state. The GMAs are further divided into 102 Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs) for managing groundwater.
Priority Groundwater Management Areas (PGMAs) are regulated by regional GCDs evaluated by TCEQ, TWDB, and TPWD; and delineated by TCEQ. Reference additional information:
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/groundwater/groundwater-planning-assessment/districts.html
Texas Groundwater Conservation Districts
Texas Priority Groundwater Management Areas (PGMAs)
Responsibilities of GCDs
GCDs are charged with managing groundwater by providing for the conservation, preservation, protection, recharge, and prevention of waste of groundwater resources within their jurisdictions
They are responsible for:
Permitting water wells.
Development of a comprehensive management plan.
Adoption of the necessary rules to implement that management plan.
Water wells for which permits are required are subject to GCD rules governing spacing, production, drilling, equipping, and completion or alteration. This could impact withdrawal limits based on production and spacing. Exempt registered water wells are also subject to GCD rules governing spacing, tract size, and well construction standards to prevent the unnecessary discharge or pollution of groundwater.
Reference additional information regarding GCDs and TWC § 35.001:
https://www.twdb.texas.gov/groundwater/management_areas/index.asp
https://tgpc.texas.gov/POE/FAQs/GCDs_FAQ.pdf
Reference additional information: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/groundwater/groundwater-planning-assessment/districts.html
Reclaimed Water
Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 30 § 210.32 and § 344.65 authorize Type 1 Reclaimed Water Use for golf courses with unrestricted public access.
Texas Landscape Irrigation Administrative Code
TAC Title 30 §344.1(45) requires that all landscape irrigation systems promote water conservation through the design, installation, service, and operation of an irrigation system in a manner that prevents the waste of water, promotes the most efficient use of water, and applies the least amount of water that is required to maintain healthy individual plant material or turfgrass, reduce dust, and control erosion.
Golf course superintendents have a responsibility to adhere to water-quality standard rules regarding groundwater and surface water flows resulting from the removal of water for irrigation use. For irrigation system installation and irrigation work, only contract with a state licensed, registered company. TCEQ License Search database: : https://www2.tceq.texas.gov/lic_dpa/index.cfm
Regulations cover irrigation licensing and backflow prevention TAC Title 30 § 344.50-344.52; and TAC Title 30 § 344.60-344.64:
water conservation
minimum standards for the design of the irrigation plan
minimum design and installation requirements
completion of irrigation system installation
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of irrigation systems
use of a reduced pressure principle backflow device when injecting fertilizers or pesticides into an irrigation system
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/drinkingwater/irrigation/landscape.html
https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=5&ti=30&pt=1&ch=344&sch=F&rl=Y
Reclaimed Water Use Requirements for Landscape Irrigation: TAC § 344.6
1.) There is no direct contact with edible crops, unless the crop is pasteurized before consumption.
2.) The irrigation system does not spray water across property lines that do not belong to the irrigation system’s owner.
3.) The irrigation system is installed using purple components.
4.) The domestic potable water line is connected using an air gap or a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device, in accordance with §290.47(i) of Title 30.
5.) A minimum of an 8 inch by 8 inch sign, in English and Spanish, is prominently posted on/in the area being irrigated and reads, “RECLAIMED WATER – DO NOT DRINK” and “AGUA DE RECUPERACIÓN – NO BEBER.”
6.) Backflow prevention on the reclaimed water supply line is in accordance with the regulations of the water purveyor.
Reference additional information: https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=4&ti=30&pt=1&ch=344
irrigation Best Management Practices
Comply with all Federal, Texas, and local laws and regulations.
Conserve water and protect water systems by adhering to state and local water withdrawal allocations (gallons/ day).
Design and/or maintain a system to meet site’s peak water requirements under normal conditions and be flexible enough to adapt to various water demands and local restrictions.
Develop an annual water budget and maintain accurate records of actual annual water use as compared to the water budget and actual annual evapotranspiration data.
Demonstrate good stewardship practices by supplementing irrigation only for the establishment of new planting and new sod, hand watering of critical hot spots, and watering-in of chemicals and fertilizers (if permissible).
Consider reduction of manicured turfgrass and conversion to native areas to reduce water use.
Separate the landscape into separate program for clubhouse and common areas.
Use mulches in shrubs and flower beds to reduce water evaporation losses.
Use drip irrigation in landscape areas to supply water only to plants that need it.
Perform daily, weekly, quarterly, and annual inspections of the irrigation system; look for ways to increase efficiency and reduce energy use associated with irrigation systems and practices.
Pump station should consist of Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) motors, pressure sensors (both high and low), water meters, and leak detection.
Consider Gravity Feed to reduce energy consumption and costs.
Utilize a Central Computer to allow for time adjustments, use weather stations for a baseline, and control costs by using efficiency to run the shortest water cycle with best pressure and distribution.
Use the weather station to calculate evapotranspiration (ET) and determine amount of water that needs to be returned to the soil.
Conserve water using tools like soil moisture meters, infrared pictures to detect hot spots quicker, hoses, and live feeds of the system via a computer or smart phone.
Monitor soil moisture and set an acceptable threshold, when below threshold, hand water the specific site.
Choose correct type of irrigation for area requiring water; ranging from full or part circle sprinkler heads to rotor or pop up to drip irrigation.
Place meters at wells and pump stations; monitor daily.
Conduct irrigation efficiency testing periodically utilizing a Texas Certified Irrigator to determine opportunities to increase efficiency.
Irrigation Water Suitability
Wherever possible, golf course designers and managers should try to identify and use alternative supply sources to conserve freshwater drinking supplies, promote plant health, and protect the environment. The routine use of potable water supply is not a preferred practice; municipal drinking water should be considered only when there is no alternative.
Studies of water supplies together with waterbodies or flows on, near, and under the property are recommended. These maybe helpful to properly design a course’s stormwater systems, water features, and to protect water resources. If treatment options are required these should be included in the budget to address water quality and equipment maintenance.
Water sources include potable water, well water, surface water, and reclaimed water.
• Potable water: Water suitable for drinking.
• Well water: Underground water held in the soil and in pervious rocks.
• Surface water: Water from streams, ditches, or diversions.
• Reclaimed water: Water processed from converting wastewater to a form reused for other purposes such as irrigation.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
Identify optimal water source for accessibility, sustainability, water quality, and turfgrass selection; ensure ability to meet seasonal and bulk water allocations for grow-in and routine maintenance.
Consult with an irrigation designer to evaluate site and water availability.
Maintain accurate records, using a metered water supply, to document irrigation water used monthly and annually. Avoid relying on estimated flow data provided by the central irrigation control computers, instead install a totalizing flow meter for accurate record keeping.
Monitor the quantity of water withdrawn to avoid aquatic life impairment.
Use alternative water supplies/sources that are appropriate and sufficiently available to supplement water needs.
Monitor reclaimed water tests regularly for dissolved salt content.
Regularly perform soil testing to monitor the accumulation of salts and sodium delivered in the recycled (reclaimed, effluent, or non–potable) water supplies.
Develop a strategic management plan to determine appropriate steps for cultivation/amendments to address water quality concerns. Amend sodic water systems appropriately (with gypsum or an appropriate ion) based on assessments to minimize sodium build-up in soil.
Protect backup/emergency supplies of potable water used to replenish recycled water storage reservoirs. Use an approved backflow protection device such as a reduced pressure principle device or an air gap structure as specified by state and/or local regulations.
Flush with freshwater or use appropriate amending materials regularly to move salts out of root zone and/ or pump brackish water to keep salts moving out of the root zone.
Monitor salinity levels in the soil using sensors.
Irrigation pipeline systems directly connected to municipal water distribution mains must have an approved backflow device at the point of connection.
Potable supply lines to buildings (for domestic uses) at recycled (reclaimed, effluent, non-potable) water use sites typically must be protected with backflow prevention device(s) in place, that are operating correctly and tested regularly.
Account for the nutrients in effluent/reused/reclaimed water when making fertilizer calculations.
Post signage (in English and Spanish) in accordance with local utility and state requirements when reclaimed water is in use.
Plumbing pipes and fixtures used in transport and delivery of reclaimed water must be painted purple.
Where practical, use reverse-osmosis (RO) filtration systems to reduce chlorides (salts) from saline groundwater; if using RO to improve water quality, be certain the reject concentrate (brine) is disposed of in a legal, proper, and environmentally responsible manner.
Use salt-tolerant varieties of turfgrass and plants to mitigate saline conditions resulting from an alternative water supply or source, if necessary.
Reclaimed water irrigation should not occur adjacent to waterways when avoidable to prevent potential unintended adverse water quality impacts, site specific characteristics (e.g., soils, geology, topography, vegetation) should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine appropriate protective setbacks; if unavoidable, then measures should be implemented over time to minimize potential adverse impacts to surface water (mitigation measures may include revised riparian vegetation management practices, sprinkler head adjustments, and additional monitoring).
Routinely monitor shallow groundwater table of freshwater for saltwater intrusion or contamination of heavy metals and nutrients.
Additional information on irrigation water suitability:
http://gsr.lib.msu.edu/2000s/2000/000914.pdf
http://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/turf/extension/factsheets/water-quality
Beneficial Use of Treated Effluent Water as an Irrigation Source
Treated effluent water reduces the amount of groundwater, raw surface water, or potable water required for irrigation use.
Many wastewater treatment plant permits are non-discharge permits and construct or designate an area golf course as the permitted discharge site.
Use of reclaimed water supports water conservation efforts, provides water security, and serves as a drought-proof water source.
Turfgrass helps filter nutrients and breaks down chemicals and biological contaminants in treated effluent water.
Reclaimed water nutrients (i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus) can be efficiently used by turfgrass and economically beneficial, these nutrients should be accounted for when making fertilizer calculations.
Reclaimed water sources can be an economical, reliable, and continuous source for irrigation.
Reclaimed water use is governed by the TCEQ Chapter 210 (Use of Reclaimed Water) of the TAC; authorized under the TWC.
Additional Information:
https://www.usga.org/course-care/water-conservation-on-golf-courses-fbe1f5ee.html
http://www.stma.org/sites/stma/files/pdfs/gcsaa_recyledwater_leaflet-1.pdf
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-28112-4_17
Accounting for Nutrients in Effluent Water Supply When Making Fertilizer Calculations
Water reports from wastewater treatment plant’s internal laboratories do not always report nitrate (NO3) and ammonium (NH4) as nitrogen (N). NO3-N means nitrogen in the form of nitrate (NO3) and NH4-N means nitrogen in the form of ammonium (NH4) in mg/l.
To convert nitrate (NO3) or ammonium (NH4) to nitrogen, 10 mg/l N = 45 mg/l NO3 = 13 mg/l NH4, each should be reported as 10 mg/l NO3-N or 10 mg/l NH4-N.
For further discussion visit Water Quality for Agriculture: Section 5.1 at: http://www.fao.org/3/t0234e/T0234E06.htm#ch5.1
To calculate the nitrogen contribution provided from a recycled water supply, multiply the mg/l (or ppm) of NO3-N and NH4-N combined by 2.72 to determine the pounds of actual nitrogen contained in an acre-foot (326,000 gallons) of water. One acre-foot (AF) is the equivalent of 12” of water applied over one acre.
Example:
10 mg/l of NO3-N and 20 mg/l NH4-N for a total of 30 mg/l total N are reported by laboratory analysis to be contained in a recycled water sample.
30 mg/l X 2.72 = 81.6 lbs. of N per AF
If 32,600,000 gallons per year are used to irrigate 50 irrigated acres of turf. 32,600,000 gal / 50 Acres = 652,000 gal/Acre
652,000 gallons per acre / 326,000 gallons per AF = 2 AF per Acre
2 AF per Acre X 81.6 lbs of N per AF = 163.2 lbs. of actual N per Acre or 3.74 lbs of N per 1000 sq ft.
If the nutrients are in their elemental form of N, P, or K, then multiply the ppm (or mg/l) value by 2.72 to get the pounds per acre foot (AF) of water (12 inches of water over 1 acre = 325,851 gal). If only applying 6 inches of ET in a month then adjust the number to reflect less than an AF of water applied to the turf.
In Turfgrass Soil Fertility and Chemical Problems, Assessment and Management by Carrow, Waddington, and Rieke, there are some common fertilizer calculations in Appendix A for P and K, if not already reported in elemental form.
Lbs. P205 (0.437) = Lbs. P
Lbs. K20 (0.830) = LBS. K
Regarding any other minor or secondary nutrients, they are generally reported on the water test in elemental form. Then they need to be multiplied by 2.72 to again get the pounds included in an acre foot (AF) of water.
Water Quality for Agriculture: Section 5.1: http://www.fao.org/3/t0234e/T0234E06. htm#ch5.1
Source: Huck, M. 2020. Accounting for Nutrients in Effluent Water Supply When Making Fertilizer Calculations. San Juan Capistrano, California.
Water Conservation and Efficient Use Planning
Water consumption and costs can be reduced through conservation strategies, use of alternative water sources, and identifying efficiencies. Watering practices should be documented and referenced to show savings in water use and to set weekly, monthly, or annual goals for improvement. Communicating these goals to maintenance staff and water managers can encourage engagement and continuous improvement. It can also be effective to share goals and results with course members and the wider general public to support local conservation initiatives. BMP usage on golf courses and related communications have been found to be particularly useful for educating the community and public around water use.
If practicable, converting turfgrass in out-of-play areas to native or adapted plants, grasses, or groundcovers can help reduce the amount of irrigation needed. The best and most effective method to reduce water use on any golf course is to reduce the irrigated acreage where possible.
The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has identified water conservation and efficiency improvement BMPs for utilities that service golf courses. Reference the TWBD Report 362, section 5.2, Golf Course Conservation: http://www.twdb.texas.gov/conservation/BMPs/Mun/doc/5.2.pdf
Best Management Practices
Selecting drought-tolerant varieties of turfgrasses can help maintain an attractive and high-quality playing surface, while minimizing water use.
Non-play areas may be planted with drought-resistant native or other well-adapted, non-invasive plants that provide an attractive and low-maintenance landscape.
Native plant species are important in providing wildlife habitat with food sources. After establishment, site-appropriate plants normally require little to no irrigation.
The system should be operated to provide only the water that is needed by the plants, or to meet occasional special needs such as salt removal.
If properly designed, rain and runoff captured in water hazards and stormwater ponds may provide supplemental water under normal conditions, though backup sources may be needed during severe drought.
Always closely monitor soil moisture levels, particularly during a drought. When practicable, irrigate when the least amount of evaporative loss will occur.
Control invasive plants or plants that use excessive water.
Some golf courses are designed with a “target golf” concept to minimize acreage of irrigated turfgrass. Existing golf courses can try to convert out-of-play areas to naturally adapted native plants, grasses, or ground covers when feasible to reduce water use and enhance aesthetics.
General information on water conservation on golf courses:
United States Golf Association (USGA) Research on Turfgrass Water Use
http://www.usga.org/course-care/water-resource-center/research-on-turfgrass-water-use.html
“Water Conservation” Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)
http://www.gcsaa.org/course/communication/golfcoursefacts/water-conservation
Reference the Landscape and Pollinator Protection and Wildlife Habitat sections for additional BMPs regarding native plants.
Drought Response
Be prepared for extended drought or restrictions by developing a written drought management plan in consultation with public water suppliers and in alignment with TWC, TCEQ, regional boards, and local agencies. Lack of availability to water resources due to drought can lead to unacceptable turfgrass quality and impact playability of the course. Managers of golf greens cannot afford to wait until drought symptoms occur. A soil moisture meter can be used to determine moisture needs of greens and tees in order to support proactive mitigation before drought impact becomes visible.
Additional information on the state water plan addressing drought, regional water plans, and local planning:
TWC § 16.051, 16.053, 16.054, 16.055: : https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/WA/htm/WA.16.htm
Best Management Practices
Use soil moisture meters to determine moisture thresholds and plant needs.
Irrigating established plant material too shallowly encourages shallow rooting, increases soil compaction, and favors pest outbreaks. For fairways and roughs, use infrequent, deep irrigation to supply enough water for plants and to encourage deep rooting.
For golf greens and tees, most roots are in the top several inches of soil, use a soil sampling tube or soil profiler to regularly monitor and determine rooting depths.
Proper cultural practices such as aeration, mowing height, irrigation frequency and amounts should be employed to promote healthy, deep root development.
Create a drought management plan for the facility that identifies steps to be taken to reduce irrigation/water use and protects critical areas, etc.
Use appropriate turfgrass species adapted to the location of the golf course being managed
Collaboration between golf courses, public water suppliers, municipalities, and Texas regulatory agencies is important for drought management and response.
Irrigation System Design
Irrigation managers should be fully trained, with a complete understanding of soil-water relationships, principles of crop coefficients, and evapotranspiration. Fundamental experience and knowledge provide the basis for irrigation management. For irrigation system installation and irrigation work, only contract with a landscape irrigator licensed by the TCEQ. A well-designed, efficient irrigation system should include precision scheduling for maintained turfgrass areas based on soil infiltration rates, soil water-holding capacity, plant water-use requirements, depth of the root zone, and desired level of turfgrass performance in order to maximize watering.
An irrigation designer and water quality specialist should evaluate the site, water quality mitigation requirements, and water availability. Utilize reclaimed water when possible. The owner should advise the designer of details regarding plant materials, soils, elevation, expectations, and budget. The designer should produce drawings for the pump station, hydraulics, configure pipe sizing, and determine sprinkler locations based on pre-planning meetings. The water quality specialist will assist in determining any required source balancing delivery system, material requirements, and flushing requirements. When in the design phase, pipe sizing and pump capacity should be budgeted for in order to have the shortest and most efficient water-time-window. Sprinkler selection, spacing, configuration (as triangular or rectangular arrangements) and nozzle selections should maximize distribution uniformity (DU).
The separation of landscape into a separate irrigation program can help with conservation. Clubhouse and common areas, with correct species selection, can require one to two cycles of irrigation per week compared to four or five cycles for turfgrass. Use drip irrigation as an option in landscape areas to supply water only to the plants that need it. Utilize reclaimed water when possible. Separate irrigation zones within landscapes, combine plants with similar water requirements (verses watering to the highest water requiring species in a planting) to minimize water usage and pruning requirements.
A well-designed system supported by a well-trained irrigation manager protects water resources, conserves supply, maximizes water use, and reduces operational cost.
Information on landscape irrigation certification programs and to find a state-licensed professional: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/drinkingwater/irrigation/landscape.html
Benefits & Placement of Part-Circle or Adjustable Heads
Install along lakes, ponds, and wetlands margins.
Use to avoid overspray of impervious areas such as roadways and sidewalks.
Use to avoid overspray into natural water features and/or other environmentally sensitive areas particularly when using recycled/reclaimed/effluent water.
Place along areas that will be considered non-irrigated, such as forest borders, native meadows, perennial rock gardens, etc.
Water Quality and Irrigation System Design
Water quality can have significant implications for turfgrass health and soil structure. There are four key water properties listed on water reports and four key soil properties listed on soil salinity and texture reports to help turfgrass managers assess irrigation water quality.
Four Key Irrigation Water Properties
Total salts
Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR)
Adjusted sodium adsorption ratio (Adj SAR)
Boron
Four Key Soil Properties
Total soluble salts (TSS)
Exchangeable sodium percent (ESP)
Boron
Soil texture
Reference properties, ratios, classifications, and management recommendations at:
https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/turf-irrigation-water-quality-a-concise-guide.html
Generally, when there is a water quality issue, a long-term management plan should be developed that considers routine assessment, appropriate amendments, leaching, and cultivation practices to monitor and reduce salt loading. Additionally, similar to drought concerns, a species or cultivar adapted to saline conditions should be selected.
Reference the Water Quality Monitoring and Management section, Nutrient Management, and IPM for additional BMPs regarding water quality.
Understanding Distribution Uniformity (DU) vs. Efficiency
Poor DU combined with poor application efficiency wastes water applied beyond the root zone and perhaps wet playing conditions depending soil drainage
Poor DU and good application efficiency does not waste water but in a turfgrass application would leave noticeable dry spots in turfgrass
Good DU and poor application efficiency results in wasted water applied beyond the root zone and perhaps wet playing conditions depending soil drainage
Good DU and good application efficiency does not waste water and optimizes playing conditions
Source: Connecticut Golf Industry BMP Guide, 2020
Best Management Practices
Use a qualified irrigation designer/consultant; for irrigation system installation and irrigation work, only contract with a state-registered company and landscape irrigator licensed by the TCEQ; designer must approve any design changes before construction.
Design should account for optimal water distribution efficiency and effective root-zone moisture coverage; target 80% or better distribution uniformity.
Implement zoning. Putting surface, slopes, and surrounds should be watered independently. Turfgrass and landscape areas should be zoned separately; in addition to use areas: greens, tees, primary roughs, secondary roughs, fairways, native, trees, shrubs, etc.
Design an irrigation system that delivers water with high DU and operate (schedule) the system for maximum application efficiency.
Incorporate individual sprinkler control instead of “block systems” into design, particularly with fine turfgrass areas.
Secure a general irrigation schedule with recommendations and instructions on modifying the schedule for local climatic, soil, and growing conditions as part of the design package. It should include base ET rate for the location.
The application rate must not exceed the infiltration rate, ability of the soil to absorb and retain the water applied during any one application. Conduct saturated hydraulic conductivity tests periodically. Since golf rotors and many other sprinklers’ precipitation rates may exceed soil infiltration rates, avoiding surface runoff is often accomplished by operating sprinklers in short durations with a “cycle and soak” programmed to occur between each application cycle.
Ensure proper operating pressure – it must not be greater than the available source pressure or a booster pump will be needed.
The design operating pressure must account for peak-use times, maximum flow rates, and supply line size and operating pressures at final buildout for the entire system.
The system should be flexible enough to meet peak water requirements and allow for operating modifications to meet seasonal irrigation changes or local restrictions. Typically, a system should be designed with at least 15% additional capacity (i.e., flow rate at the specified operating pressure) to accommodate “catching up” over 7 days if an irrigation event is missed due to a power failure, etc.
Design should account for the need to leach out salt build-up from poor-quality water sources by providing access to freshwater.
Underground cables, pipes, and other obstacles must be identified, and their locations flagged prior to construction.
Only qualified specialists should install the irrigation system; construction must be consistent with the design; construction and materials must meet existing standards and criteria.
Space permanent irrigation sprinklers and other distribution devices according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
Space sprinklers in turfgrass areas for head-to-head coverage.
Sprinkler spacing distance should be based on average wind conditions during irrigation.
For variable wind directions, triangular spacing is more uniform than square spacing.
Distribution devices and pipe sizes should be designed for optimal uniform coverage.
The first and last distribution device should have no more than a 10% difference in flow rate. This usually corresponds to about a 20% difference in pressure.
Distribution equipment (such as sprinklers, rotors, and micro-irrigation devices) in each zone must have the same precipitation rate.
Water supply systems (for example, wells and pipelines) should be designed for varying control devices, rain shutoff devices, and backflow prevention.
Water conveyance systems should be designed with thrust blocks (or joint restraints) and air-release valves and/or vacuum release valves as necessary.
Sites with significant elevation change may require a design incorporating pressure reducing valve (PRV) station(s) and/or multiple points of connection (POCs), pump stations and/or mainline systems separately pressurized to minimize zones of excess and/or insufficient pressure due to elevation-related pressure loss and/or gain.
Flow velocity must be 5 feet per second or less.
Pipelines should be designed to provide the system with the appropriate pressure required for maximum irrigation uniformity.
Pressure-regulating or compensating equipment must be used where the system pressure exceeds the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Equipment with check valves must be used in low areas to prevent low head drainage.
Isolation valves should be installed in a manner that allows critical areas to remain functional while making repairs to the system.
Manual quick-coupler valves should be installed near greens, tees, and bunkers so these can be hand-watered during severe droughts; consider adding manual quick-coupler valves to areas known to be drier than others.
Update multi-row sprinklers with single head control for conservation and efficiency.
Ensure heads are set at level ground and not on slopes.
Non-Play and Landscape Areas
Map any environmentally sensitive areas such as sinkholes, wetlands, or flood-prone areas, and identify species classified as endangered or threatened by federal and Texas designation, and state species of special concern. Identify and eliminate invasive species. The most efficient and effective watering method for non-turf landscape is drip or micro-irrigation.
Wherever possible key stakeholders (golf course architect, superintendent, golf professional, etc.) should evaluate the amount of functional turfgrass and transition to non-play areas which require significantly less, if any, irrigation.
Rain gardens may be installed near roofs and other impervious surfaces to catch and temporarily hold water, helping to provide supplemental irrigation needs for landscape areas.
Best Management Practices
Designate 50% to 70% of non-play area to remain as natural cover according to “right-plant, right-place,” a principle of plant selection that favors limited supplemental irrigation.
Incorporate natural vegetation in non-play areas.
Consider rain gardens for supplemental irrigation.
Use micro-irrigation and low-pressure emitters in non-play areas to supplement irrigation.
Routinely inspect non-play irrigation systems for problems related to emitter clogging, filter defects, and overall system functionality.
Irrigation Pumping System
Pump stations, when properly sized and maintained, can deliver critical improvements in water and energy savings. The pump station should be equipped with control systems that protect distribution piping, provide for emergency shutdown necessitated by line breaks, and allow maximum system scheduling flexibility.
The pump station should consist of the following key elements:
• VFD motors: Regulate water pressure and deliver pump control based on pressure. Help reduce energy costs by alternating pump starts and running at lower RPMs based on flow and pressure needed for the system.
• Pressure Sensors: Provide adjustable sensor pressure to maintain optimal system pressure with current flow; can set high pressure and low-pressure levels for automatic shutdown.
• Water Meters: Current flow monitored by control unit to optimize energy consumption.
• Leak Detection: A combination of pressure and water output that can activate shutdown for low pressure.
Best Management Practices
The design operating pressure must not be greater than the available pump’s capabilities or source pressure.
The design operating pressure must account for peak-use times, peak flow rates, and supply-line diameter and operating pressures at final buildout for the entire system.
Maintain air-relief and vacuum-breaker valves by using hydraulic-pressure-sustaining values.
Install VFD systems to lengthen life of older pipes and fittings until a new irrigation system can be installed.
An irrigation system should have high- and low-pressure sensors that shut down the system in case of breaks and malfunctions.
Pumps should be sized to provide adequate flow and pressure.
Pumps should be equipped with control systems to protect distribution piping.
System checks and routine maintenance on pumps, valves, programs, fittings, filters, and sprinklers should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keep records of filter service performed to identify potential system corrosion, well problems, or declining irrigation water quality. Even under routine conditions, keeping filters operating properly prolongs the life of an existing system and reduces pumping costs.
Document pump motor/equipment run-time hours and monitor pumping station power consumption. Monthly bills should be monitored over time to detect a possible increase in power usage.
Compare the power used with the amount of water pumped. Requiring more power to pump the same amount of water may indicate a problem with the pump motor(s), control valves, or distribution system.
Quarterly checks of amperage by qualified pump personnel may more accurately indicate increased power usage and thus potential problems.
Application/distribution uniformity should be checked annually. Conduct a periodic professional irrigation audit at least once every five years. Implement a PM program to replace worn components before they waste fertilizer, chemicals, and water.
Conduct pump efficiency tests every 1 to 5 years to monitor pump wear, ensure pumps are in good working order, operating efficiently, and not wasting energy.
Test frequency should depend on water quality with 1 to 3-year intervals if water is contaminated with sand, silt, clay etc., and longer intervals of 3 to 5 years with clean or potable water.
System checks and routine maintenance on pumps, valves, programs, fittings, and sprinklers should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Ensure lubrication, overhauls, and other preventive maintenance are completed according to the manufacturer’s schedule
Gravity Feed
Gravity feed systems are designed with a reservoir placed at a higher elevation than the highest area that requires water. The systems use pressure reducing valves to regulate pressure as it travels downhill and supply this pressure to the irrigation system. As the system does not require electrical motors to supply pressure, energy consumption levels are much lower than electrical systems. Quarterly upkeep requirements can increase maintenance costs; however, these systems provide a reduction to energy costs.
Irrigation System Scheduling
Responsible irrigation management conserves water and minimizes risk associated with nutrient and pesticide movement. Irrigation scheduling must take plant water requirements and soil intake capacity into account to prevent excess water use that could lead to leaching and runoff. Plant water needs are determined by ET rates, recent rainfall, recent temperature extremes, and soil moisture.
Irrigation should be based on ET rates and soil moisture replacement and not simply run on a calendar-based schedule. An irrigation system should be operated based only on the moisture needs of the turfgrass, or to water-in a fertilizer or chemical application, as directed by the label.
Older electric/mechanical time clocks cannot automatically adjust for changing ET rates. Frequent adjustment is needed with these systems to reflect the needs of individual turfgrass areas.
An onsite weather station will offer the best ET information. When unavailable, follow several local weather stations that can be found on Weather Underground: www.weatherunderground.com or the Texas ET Network: https://texaset.tamu.edu/. It is important to note when using a local weather station’s data, that ET may not be calibrated for turfgrass and the weather station location may not be on turfgrass, so the numbers may not be exactly what is desired. It is possible, however, to draw conclusions over time in relation to what the turfgrass requirements are.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
The reliability of older clock-control station timing depends on calibration of the timing devices; this should be done periodically, at least seasonally.
An irrigation system should have rain sensors to shut off the system after 0.25 to 0.5 inch of rain is received. Computerized systems allow a superintendent to access the control system and cancel the program if it is determined that the course has received adequate rainfall.
Install control devices to allow for maximum system scheduling flexibility.
Generally, granular fertilizer applications should receive 0.25 inch of irrigation to move particles off the leaves while minimizing runoff.
Irrigation quantities should not exceed the available water holding capacity of the soil based on texture and root zone depth.
Irrigation schedule should coincide with other cultural practices (for example, the application of nutrients, herbicides, or other chemicals).
Irrigation should occur in early morning hours before temperatures rise and relative humidity drops.
Base plant water needs should be determined by ET rates, recent rainfall, recent temperature extremes, and soil moisture; driven by site surveying and scouting.
Use mowing, verticutting, aeration, nutrition, and other cultural practices to control water loss, maintain infiltration rates, encourage conservation, and increase efficiency.
Depending on physical soil characteristics and turfgrass type, using solid-tine aeration equipment in place of verticutting is an option.
Slicing and spiking relieve surface compaction and promote water penetration and aeration.
Visually monitor for localized dry conditions or hot spots to identify poor efficiency or a failed system device.
Use predictive models to estimate soil moisture and best time to irrigate.
Avoid use of a global setting; adjust watering times per head.
Base water times on actual site conditions for each head and zone.
Adjust irrigation run times based on current local meteorological data.
Install rain switches to shut down the irrigation system if enough rain falls in a zone.
Use computed daily ET rate to adjust run times to meet the turf’s moisture needs.
ET rates should be adjusted by the appropriate crop coefficient (Kc). Average Kc values are 0.80 for cool season turfgrasses and 0.60.for warm season turfgrasses. Kc values may require minor adjustment through the growing season. Average Kc values can be used when creating annual water budgets and/or as a starting point when scheduling for ET replacement.
Manually adjust individual control stations’ automated ET data with a Kc to reflect wet and dry microenvironments on the course.
Use soil moisture sensors, or if unavailable a soil sampling tube, to assist in scheduling or to create on-demand irrigation schedules.
Use multiple soil moisture sensors to reflect soil moisture levels. Evaluate variations in soil types across the property using the USDA Web Soil Survey when selecting locations for multiple sensors placement. . https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/HomePage.htm
Install soil moisture sensors in the root zone for each irrigation zone as feasible to enhance scheduled timer-based run times.
Place soil moisture sensors in a representative location within the irrigation zone. Installing a soil moisture sensor in the driest or wettest irrigation zone of the irrigation system may lead to over or under watering on a larger scale.
Wired soil moisture systems should be installed to prevent damage from aerification.
Periodically perform catch-can uniformity tests.
Reducing dry spots and soil compaction improves infiltration, reducing water use and runoff.
Install emergency shutdown devices to address line breaks.
Check to ensure system is operating properly after power outages.
To prevent excess water use, irrigation scheduling should consider plant water requirements, recent rainfall, recent temperature extremes, and soil water holding characteristics.
Sensor Technology
Proper irrigation management requires correctly installed monitoring and control devices, including soil moisture sensors. The use of any sensors should be supplemented with monitoring for visible indications of wilt. Multiple sensors should be used for greater accuracy (i.e., handheld in addition to an in-ground sensor). These should be installed at representative locations and depths; and maintained to provide the information necessary for making sound irrigation management decisions.
Rainfall can be tracked at specific sites using rain gauges. More than one gauge-station may be needed to gain a full measure of rainfall or evaporation loss on some courses, depending on acreage and micro-climates. Utilization of soil moisture probes and inspections for visual symptoms such as wilting turfgrass, computer models, and tensiometers may supplement these measurements. Computerized displays are available to help visualize the system.
Predictive models based on weather station data and soil types are also available. These are relatively accurate and applicable, especially for predicting long-term turfgrass water requirements. Weather data such as rainfall, air and soil temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed are incorporated into certain model formulas, and soil moisture content is estimated. These models rely on data collected and the number of assumptions made for effectiveness and accuracy – they are only as good as the information that is collected.
Best Management Practices
Irrigation controllers/timers should be reset as often as practically possible to account for plant growth requirements and local climatic conditions.
A rain or moisture shut-off device or similar technology is required per the TCEQ on all new irrigation systems with an automatic controller and all replacements of automatic controllers on existing irrigation systems. The rain or moisture shut-off device must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s published recommendations.
Properly calibrated flow meters, soil moisture sensors, rain shut-off devices, freeze sensors, and/or other automated methods should be used to manage irrigation; refer to the TCEQ and local counties for required compliance measures.
Computerized control systems should be installed on new course irrigation systems to help ensure efficient irrigation application. These allow for timing adjustments at every head when systems are designed to provide individual head control.
Rain shut-off devices and rain gauges should be placed in open areas to prevent erroneous readings.
Use multiple soil moisture sensors/meters for accuracy and to reflect soil moisture levels. Visual observation/ logging is also important beyond the use of sensors alone.
Ensure that onsite weather stations are properly calibrated and maintained.
Reference TCEQ irrigation compliance measures for irrigation technology and system design:
Pond Location and Design
Lakes and ponds can add significant aesthetic value to a golf course. They can also be used as a source of irrigation water and it is important to consider this during design and construction. The size, shape and depth of a lake or pond will affect how they respond to various environmental inputs. Careful design may significantly reduce future operating expenses for lake and aquatic plant management. Most golf courses plan lakes and water hazards to be a part of the stormwater control and treatment system. This usually works well for all concerned, however natural waters may not be considered treatment systems and must be protected.
Surface water in Texas is owned by the state and held in trust for the citizens of the state. The right to use state water may be acquired by appropriation. When the right is lawfully acquired, it may be diverted from its natural channel. The Water Rights Permitting Application must be submitted through the TCEQ. Before diverting Texas state water, a declaration of intent must be made and approved by the watermaster of the designated Water Division. Reference additional information: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/WA/htm/WA.11.htm#11.325
Best Management Practices
• Consult with a qualified golf course architect with stormwater experience, working in conjunction with a stormwater engineer, to develop an effective stormwater management system that complies with the requirements of the DNR.
• When constructing drainage systems, pay close attention to engineering details such as subsoil preparation, the placement of gravel, slopes, and backfilling.
• Where practical, internal golf course drains should discharge through pre-treatment zones and/or vegetative buffers to help remove nutrients and sediments. Carbon filters can be added in cases where vegetative buffers are unavailable.
• Studies of water supplies are needed for irrigation systems, and studies of waterbodies or flows on, near, and under the property are needed to properly design a course’s stormwater systems and water features, and to protect water resources.
• Peninsular projections and long, narrow fingers into ponds may prevent water mixing. Ponds that are too shallow may reach high temperatures, leading to low oxygen levels and promoting algal growth and excess sedimentation.
• In shallow or nutrient-impacted ponds, the use of aeration equipment may be required to maintain acceptable dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the water.
Pond Use and Maintenance
Each pond has four regions or zones that significantly influence water quality and are crucial in maintaining the ecological balance of the system.
Riparian Zone – the part of the bank slope that lies above the surface but where the soil remains permanently wet.
Littoral Zone – the shore area of the lake or pond. Consists of the area from the dry land sloping to the open water. This area is shallow and gets lots of nutrients from runoff and non-point source pollution.
Limnetic Zone – the open water area. The upper portion is the euphotic zone and receives sunlight. This is usually where fish populations are highest and where algae and other aquatic plants thrive. The lower zone, where no sunlight penetrates, is the profundal zone. This area has lower fish populations due to limited oxygen levels.
Benthic Zone – the bottom of the pond or lake, consisting of organic sediments and soil. The area where bacteria decompose organic matter. Decomposition rates are significantly impacted by oxygen levels.
It is important to understand the function of each zone, and how good water quality can be maintained if these zones are properly managed.
Golf Course Ponds: Maintenance Challenges
Low dissolved oxygen
Sedimentation
Changes in plant populations
Nuisance vegetation
Maintenance of littoral shelves
Vegetation on the lakeshore
Mammal intrusion
Evaporation losses are higher in some regions than others and vary from year to year and within the year. However, evaporative losses could approach six inches per month during the summer. Aquatic plants are more difficult to control in shallow water. Surface water sources can present problems with algal and bacteria growth. Algal cells and organic residues of algae can pass through irrigation system filters and form aggregates that may plug emitters. Use an expert in aquatic management to help develop and monitor pond management programs.
Best Management Practices
Pond leaks should be controlled and managed properly; use leak controls in the form of dike compaction, natural-soil liners, soil additives, commercial liners, drain tile, or other approved methods.
Maintain a riparian buffer to filter the nutrients and sediment in runoff.
Reduce frequency of mowing along the lake edge, collect or direct clippings to upland areas.
Prevent overthrowing fertilizer into ponds. Practice good fertilizer management to reduce nutrient runoff into ponds, which causes algae blooms and ultimately reduces DO levels. Use drop spreaders instead of rotary spreaders near these sensitive areas.
Establish a special management zone around pond edges.
Dispose of grass clippings where runoff will not carry them back to the lake.
Encourage clumps of native emergent vegetation at the shoreline.
Maintain water flow through lakes, if they are interconnected.
Establish wetlands where water enters lakes to slow water flow and trap sediments.
Maintain appropriate silt fencing and BMPs on upstream projects to reduce erosion and sedimentation.
Manipulate water levels to prevent low levels that result in warmer temperatures and lowered DO levels.
Aerate ponds and dredge or remove sediment before it becomes a problem.
A pond should hold surplus storage of at least 10 percent of full storage; in other words, the difference between primary spillway elevation and auxiliary spillway elevation provides 10 percent of pond volume when water level is equal to elevation of the primary spillway.
Provide an alternative source for ponds that may require supplemental recharge from another water source such as a well during high-demand periods.
Estimated losses from evaporation and seepage should be added to the recommended depth of the pond and if supplied by the irrigation supply, should be included in irrigation water budgets.
More About Spillway Systems
Spillway Systems are control structures over or through which flows are discharged, they include Primary Spillways through which normal flows and small storm water flows are discharged and Auxiliary or Emergency Spillways through which storm water flows (floods) are discharged.
FEMA 534, Technical Manual for Dam Owners: Impacts of Plants on Earthen Dams, Figure 6, Page 5-19, September 2005.
FEMA 473, Technical Manual for Dam Owners: Impacts of Animals on Earthen Dams, Figure 3-2, Page 11, September 2005.
Metering
The amount of water delivered through a system is an important measure of how well an irrigation system and schedule are working. Proper use of irrigation management devices such as flow meters, rain gauges, rain shut off devices, and soil moisture sensors should be utilized to allow flow and volume levels to be managed, monitored, and compared over time.
Best Management Practices
• Calibrate equipment periodically to compensate for wear in pumps, nozzles, and metering systems.
• Properly calibrated flow meters, soil moisture sensors, rain shut-off devices, and/or other automated methods should be used to manage irrigation.
• Flow meters should have a run of pipe that is straight enough — both downstream and upstream — to prevent turbulence and bad readings - consult manufacturers recommendations for the minimum length of straight pipe required in front of the meter.
• Flow meters can be used to determine how much water is applied over the irrigated area, which can be converted to inches applied and compared to ET to confirm the average application of water applied as a percentage of ET.
Irrigation System Quality
Irrigation system maintenance on a golf course impacts the quality of the system; this involves four major efforts:
Calibration or auditing: ensuring equipment is fit for use and correctly set up.
Preventive maintenance (PM): the first step in good system management. Including tests, measurements, adjustments, parts replacement, and cleaning, performed specifically to prevent faults from occurring.
Corrective maintenance: the act of fixing what is broken.
Record-keeping: central to good system management.
Renovating a golf course irrigation system can improve efficiencies, conserve water, improve playability, and lower operating costs.
Best Management Practices
Respond to day-to-day failures in a timely manner, maintain the integrity of the system as designed, and keep good records.
System checks and routine maintenance on pumps, valves, control systems, adjustment of programs, fittings, and sprinklers should follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Application/distribution efficiencies should be checked annually. Implement a PM program to replace worn components before they waste fertilizer, chemicals, and water.
Conduct a periodic professional irrigation audit at least once every five years.
Exercise manual isolation valves annually by closing and reopening to prevent the threads of operating stems from corroding and seizing.
Keep valve boxes edged regularly to quickly locate and shut a section of the system off if there is a leak.
Annually disassemble, clean and service air and vacuum release valves, PRVs, and any other specialized components included in the design.
Gather all the documentation collected as part of the PM program, along with corrective maintenance records for analysis.
Correctly identifying problems and costs helps to determine what renovations are appropriate.
Maintain written and photo records of pipe or other component failures and repairs. This can become valuable documentation when proposing system renovations and replacements.
Sprinkler Maintenance
Good sprinkler system management starts with comprehensive PM procedures and record-keeping. It includes documenting system and maintenance-related details so that potential problems can be addressed before extensive repairs are needed. It also provides a basis for evaluating renovation or replacement options. Examples include:
Pipe failures may be caused by material failure or problems with the pump station and/or control system programming resulting in pressure surges and spikes.
Wiring problems could be caused by corrosion, rodent damage, insulation knicks, or frequent lightning or power surges.
Control tubing problems could result from poor filtration or water supply chemical precipitants such as calcium carbonate.
Best Management Practices
The system should be inspected routinely for proper operation by checking computer logs and visually inspecting the pump station, remote controllers, and irrigation heads.
A visual inspection should be carried out for leaks, misaligned or inoperable heads, and chronic wet or dry spots, so that adjustments can be made or replaced.
Part-circle sprinklers should be checked periodically for proper adjustment. Particularly important when irrigating with recycled water so that it does not spray outside of the designated use area.
Flush drip/micro-irrigation irrigation lines and filters regularly to minimize emitter clogging. To reduce sediment build-up, make flushing part of a regular maintenance schedule. If fertigating, prevent microbial growth by flushing all fertilizer from lateral lines before shutting down the irrigation system.
Clean and maintain filtration equipment.
Systems should be observed in operation at least monthly or more frequently if problems are regularly occurring. This can be done during maintenance programs such as fertilizer or chemical applications where irrigation is required, or heads can be brought on-line for a few seconds and observed for proper operation. This process detects controller or communications failures, stuck or misaligned heads, and clogged or broken nozzles.
Monitor and record the amount of water being applied, including system usage and rainfall. By tracking this information, identify areas where minor adjustments can improve performance. This information supports potential need for renovations and aids in computing current operating costs in comparison to potential future costs post-renovation.
Factor in rainfall and compare total amount of water applied per irrigated acre to ET as a measure of application efficiency.
Keep sprinklers edged regularly to ensure proper distribution.
Document and periodically review the condition of infrastructure (such as pipes, wires, and fittings). If the system requires frequent repairs, it is necessary to determine why these failures are occurring. For diagnosis of PVC failure causes visit: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ch171
Irrigation System Inspection Checklist & Frequency
Daily
Visual field inspections for:
Leaks (in pipes or heads)
Stuck-on heads
Flow (actual vs. projected)
Meter readings
Computer logs
Rapid pressure loss at pump stations cycling motors
Visually inspect reservoir
Weekly
Inspect individual clocks
Run the system & watch sprinklers
Cleaning filters at the pump station to remove debris
Check rotation of heads
Make needed adjustments
Inspect for proper pressures at sprinklers (visual and measured)
Quarterly
Read electrical current drawn by pumps
Check voltage at breakers
Record run time hours
Inspect motors
Inspect PRV
Pressure adjustments to each zone or sprinkler
Annually
Inspect all sprinklers on the course
Replace worn parts
Record each head
Visually inspect reservoir
Sprinkler nozzle replacement program by zone or area
Clean satellite control boxes of debris, insect and/or rodent nests that may have accumulated over the previous season
Source: Hawai’i Golf Maintenance BMP Handbook, 2019
System Maintenance
Routine maintenance helps maintain water quality and ensure water is used responsibly. System checks include pumps, valves, programs, fittings, and sprinklers. An irrigation system should be calibrated regularly by conducting periodic irrigation audits to check actual water delivery and nozzle efficiency.
Best Management Practices
Internal irrigation audits should be conducted to facilitate a high-quality maintenance and scheduling program. These should be performed by trained technicians, starting with a visual inspection to identify necessary repairs or corrective actions before carrying out other levels of evaluation.
In addition to repair requirements - evaluate pressure, flow, and precipitation rate to determine that correct nozzles are being used and that heads are performing according to manufacturer’s specifications. Pressure and flow rate checks at each head can also determine average application rate in any area.
Interference to water distribution due to sprinklers below grade, or blockage by tree limbs and/or shrubs should be evaluated, rain sensor should be checked.
Inspect the backflow device to determine it is in place and in good repair.
Examine turfgrass quality and plant health for indications of irrigation malfunction or needs for scheduling adjustments, bear in mind that early symptoms of root feeding insects may initially be misdiagnosed as drought.
Preventive Maintenance
Inspect system daily by checking computer logs and visually inspecting the pump station, remote controllers, and irrigation heads. Visually inspect for leaks, misaligned or inoperable heads, and chronic wet or dry spots.
In older systems, inspect irrigation pipe and look for fitting breaks caused by surges. For PVC fitting and pipe failure diagnosis: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ch171
Annually service pressure regulation
Check filter operations frequently to prolong system life and reduce costs.
Document equipment run-time hours and monitor power consumption at pump stations to identify issues.
Qualified pump personnel should perform quarterly checks of amperage to identify increased power usage that indicates issues.
Increase frequency of routine inspection/calibration of soil moisture sensors that may be operating in high-salinity soils.
Corrective Maintenance
Replace or repair all broken or worn components before the next scheduled irrigation.
Replacement parts should have the same characteristics as the original components.
Record-keeping is an essential practice; document all corrective actions.
System Renovation
Proper problem identification and appropriate golf course renovations can improve system efficiencies, conserve water, improve playability, and lower operating costs.
Before starting any renovation, know the age of the system and identify renovation needs.
Review potential steps to improve system performance by maximizing efficient use of the current system, in comparison to renovation.
Evaluate cost of renovation and its return on investment and other benefits including financial, course playability, and turfgrass management (fewer weeds, disease, wet and/or dry spots, etc.)
Irrigation Leak Detection
Leaks in an irrigation system must be quickly detected and corrected in order to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and minimize associated costs. Due to the complexity of irrigation systems, they require close monitoring to ensure early detection of any leaks. Golf courses without hydraulic pressure-sustaining valves are much more prone to irrigation pipe and fitting breaks because of surges in the system, creating downtime for older systems. If an area of the course is moist during dry periods and/or lush vegetation, this could indicate a leaking system.
Best Management Practices
• Monitor water meters or other measuring devices for unusually high or low readings to detect leaks or other problems in the system. Make needed repairs.
• An irrigation system should have high- and low-pressure sensors that shut down the system in case of breaks and malfunctions.
• The system should be monitored daily for breaks; log amount of water pumped each day.
• Document and periodically review the condition of infrastructure (such as pipes, wires, and fittings). If the system requires frequent repairs, determine why these failures are occurring. Pipe failures may be caused by material failure or problems with the pump station.
• Ensure pump control systems provide for emergency shutdowns caused by line breaks and allow maximum system scheduling flexibility.
• Programming of central controllers with flow management software must be performed by qualified individuals who understand the relation between pipe size, flow rates, flow velocities and friction loss (of dynamic pressure) so as not to create water hammer or pressure losses by allowing zones to exceed maximum allowable values.
Winterization and Spring Start-up
Winterization of the irrigation system is important to protect the system and reduce equipment failures resulting from freezing.
Best Management Practices
Conduct a visual inspection of the irrigation system: inspect for mainline breaks, low pressure at the pump, and head-to-head spacing.
Conduct a catch-can test to audit the system.
Flush and drain above-ground irrigation system components that could hold water.
Remove water from all conveyances and supply and distribution devices that may freeze with compressed air or open drain plugs at the lowest point on the system.
Clean filters, screens, and housing; remove drain plug and empty water out of the system.
Secure systems and close and lock covers/ compartment doors to protect the system from potential acts of vandalism and from animals seeking refuge.
Remove drain plug and drain above-ground pump casings.
Record metering data before closing the system.
Secure or lock irrigation components and electrical boxes.
Perform pump and engine servicing/repair before winterizing.
Recharge irrigation in the spring with water and inspect for corrective maintenance issues.
Ensure proper irrigation system drainage design.
Ensure irrigation buildings holding above ground pipes are heated properly and checked regularly.
Wellhead Protection
The ‘wellhead’ is the area of a well which is visible above ground – usually a PVC pipe topped with a cap. Wellhead protection is a pollution prevention technique designed to protect ground water sources of drinking water. Wellhead protection involves establishing protection zones and safe land-use practices around water supply wells in order to prevent accidental water contamination. It also includes protecting wellheads from physical impacts, keeping them secure, and sampling wells according to the monitoring schedule required by the regulating authority. When installing new wells, contact the local GCD to determine permitting and construction requirements and the required isolation distances from potential sources of contamination. Locate new wells up-gradient as far as possible from likely pollutant sources, such as petroleum storage tanks, septic tanks, chemical mixing areas, or fertilizer storage facilities.
Best Management Practices
Use backflow-prevention devices at the wellhead, on hoses, and at pesticide mix/load station to prevent contamination of the water source.
Properly close/plug abandoned or flowing wells.
For locations where runoff may contact and/or collect around any part of the wellhead, the area should be graded to include berms to divert surface flow away from the wellhead.
Site new wells so surface water runoff does not contact or collect around any part of the wellhead, including the concrete pad or foundation; or construct a berm near the wellhead that is sufficient to prevent surface water runoff from contacting or collecting around wellhead.
Surround new wells with bollards or a physical barrier to prevent impacts to the wellhead.
Inspect wellheads and well casing at least annually for leaks or cracks; repair as needed.
Conduct a well pump efficiency test every 1 to 5 years to monitor pump and electric motor wear. The frequency of testing should depend on the water quality with 1 or 3-year intervals for water contaminated with sand, silt, clay etc., and every 3 to 5 years for clean water.
Maintain records of new well construction and modifications to existing wells.
Obtain a copy of the well log for each well to determine local geology and depth; these factors have a bearing on vulnerability to contamination.
Sample wells for contaminants according to schedule and protocol required by the DNR.
Never apply a fertilizer or pesticide next to a wellhead.
Never mix and load pesticides next to a wellhead if not on a pesticide mix/load pad.
Additional information on Texas groundwater management and regulation:
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/groundwater/groundwater-planning-assessment/gw_index.html
