Oct - 2006 Urban Irrigation Best Management Practices
In May 2006 the Irrigation Association of Australia released a document entitled "Urban Irrigation - Best Management Practices - (BMPs)". The purpose of the document is to present BMPs for turf and landscapes in the design, installation, maintenance and management of urban irrigation systems in ways that save water and protect water quality. With summer just around the corner and most of Australia already experiencing at least some level of water restrictions there has never been a more relevant time to take a look at promoting watering efficiency.
Below is an overview of the Best Management Practices:
Below is an overview of the Best Management Practices:
- BMP 1 - Design the irrigation system to distribute water efficiently and evenly
The irrigation system should be designed to conserve and protect water resources by considering specific criteria in each installation, including:- soil type
- slope
- root depth
- plant materials
- microclimates
- weather conditions
- water source (quality, quantity, pressure)
- BMP 2 - Install the irrigation system to meet the design criteria
The irrigation system should be installed to conserve and protect water resources, as per the design specifications. Components should meet any specifications, standards or local code requirements. The contractor or installer should be licensed and insured. - BMP 3 - Maintain the irrigation system for optimum performance
The irrigation system should be regularly serviced by a licensed person to maintain its performance. All serviced components should meet irrigation design specifications and standards. - BMP 4 - Manage the irrigation system to respond to the changing water requirements of the landscape.
The irrigation schedule should be managed to maintain a functional and healthy turf and landscape with the minimum requirement of water. A drought strategy should be prepared for when there is not enough water available for the minimum requirements.