Max H2O-NO WASTE
How do we make our smart, or weather-based controllers more efficient?
Multiple field and site trials over the years have pointed to the fact that irrigating at 'ET' can apply more water than needed. And irrigation with soil moisture thresholds can also over apply water––especially with overhead irrigation on both systems. Why?
WATER QUALITY.
We tend to assume that the water is 'just water', and it all behaves and performs in the same manner, all the time.
Suggested duration times applied by weather-based controllers doesn't mean it 'all' gets in the ground––we just assume it does. For example, with ET, we find that a 10 minute duration may only get 8 minutes worth of water in ground––thus, over time help create 'drift' (some call it). And as a result operators get frustrated, crank up the time and complain the system doesn't work. Without the understanding that water, like hard water quality is in play here.
In the case of soil moisture sensors in full 'auto' mode––that is with 'upper and lower' thresholds running the system, over-watering happens in the same fashion when it takes 20%, or longer, to hit the upper limit because the water will not permeate the soil. This can be contributed to drinking water quality, or well water or reuse water. The mineral makeup and physical structure of these and other water types will impact irrigation efficiency, soil health and water application. Not to mention plant vigor and production.
As an industry, we need to pay much more attention to water quality and it's behavior. Water sources are not the same, they perform differently in all aspects of irrigation.
Magnetically conditioned water in both scenario's is the most effective way improve water permeation with compacted soils and improve overall holding capacity and reducing water use. ET and soil moisture systems are more effective with this conditioned water. Our technology is completely passive, with no injection, machinery or chemicals. No bubbles needed...
Nice moisture graph Max H2O--no waste!
hashtag#water hashtag#betterwater hashtag#savewater #ODC-soulutions
