This course will introduce students to the management and technology used in sprinkler irrigation systems. Emphasis will be on pivot maintenance and operation of Variable Rate (precision) Irrigation. Water requirements, water resources, application methods, types and selection of irrigation equipment, application time and rates, irrigation well principles and operation, maintenance and repair, costs, and return will be covered.
Water, and issues surrounding water, have always been and will continue to be at the forefront of agriculture, particularly in the Western United States. Efficient use and management of water resources is the most crucial factor in modern-day agriculture. Demand for water will continue to rise. It is critical that students understand and learn to apply principles to help manage this resource. Technology such as Variable Rate Irrigation (VRI), precision or prescriptive irrigation, is leading the way in conservation and management of water. Students will understand water conservation and management using the latest irrigation technology.
Course objectives will be accomplished by providing students with the following learning experiences: Provide a clear and practical understanding of irrigation; Provide an understanding of selecting proper irrigation systems; Provide an understanding of water resources; Provide an understanding of application times and rates; Provide an understanding of costs and returns; Identify different types of Variable Rate Irrigation systems, components, and software to preserve water; Provide hands-on experiences with equipment and irrigation scheduling methods.