 Erik Christiansen |
Technology today has never been better in efficiently and effectively using water. These innovations truly make it plausible for superintendents to be successful in managing their systems. However, if these systems don’t live up to their expectations, then we have to step back and analyze how water and nutrients are being applied and what we can do better to meet our goals of effectively maximizing our irrigation.
Recently, we had the pleasure of working with Oak Tree National Superintendent Bret Proctor in Edmond, Okla. – site of the 2014 U.S. Senior Open. Bret was very hands-on through the design development and completely plugged into the entire process of quality water application. During the design process, we went over various options to achieve accurate sprinkler coverage that met their expectations, while holding to the club’s budget. The charts below illustrate Oak Tree National's old greens sprinklers and spacing vs. a new design profile using high-efficiency nozzles and quality spacing.
“The system exceeded our parameters for coverage, and through the grow-in we’re seeing a 10-percent reduction in total water-application volume with a system that waters more acreage,” Proctor shares. “We’re not battling isolated dry spots and problem wet areas due to the tighter head spacing and precision precipitation rates delivered by our new sprinklers. Furthermore, now that the system has had a full season of operation, we’re realizing even more efficiency... up to 30 percent less water.”
He continues: “All these tasks were achievable with a delivery system – pump and piping – that has the ability to keep pressure and flows consistent over the course, while providing even distribution.”
Don Cross, superintendent at Skokie Country Club in Chicago, reveals that he has seen a drastic improvement in the quality of his course since he upgraded his irrigation system. “I now have the control to apply water where it’s required versus over-watering the fairways to keep our roughs healthy,” Cross offers. “Not only do I save water, but we’re not chasing agronomic issues nearly as much. Skokie CC is realizing true water and labor savings that weren’t an option with our older, antiquated system.”
Nathan Neumann, superintendent at Wichita Falls Country Club, in West Texas, commented that his club has reduced its water usage by as much as 25 percent. “This is a big savings to the club,” he adds, “and the quality-of-turf side benefit is very noticeable by the members – a major win-win. We’ve reduced our water consumption, and the members have a tangible takeaway – better playing conditions.”
Clearly, proof is in the pudding as these are just a few examples of projects that have invested in high-efficiency irrigation systems and realized numerous short- and long-term benefits. Furthermore, each club took advantage of a great buying environment, completing each system on budget.
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