Description of practice
Sprinkler irrigation is a method of applying water that simulates natural rainfall. Water is distributed through a system of pipes, usually by pumping. It is then sprayed into the air through sprinklers so that it breaks up into small drops which fall on the ground.
| Examples of how to use sprinkler irrigation | Further information (see Note below) |
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Impact sprinklersImpact sprinklers are driven in a circular motion by the force of the outgoing water. They can be used to water large areas of land, albeit unevenly because the larger water drops fall closer to the sprinkler than the smaller. |
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Micro-sprinkler irrigationSmall-sized water droplets are delivered through a rotating head. This micro sprinkler system allows longer watering time with less runoff. |
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Travelling big gunWater is delivered to the crop by a large-capacity, high pressure nozzle. The travelling big gun is pulled along a track in the field by a wheel that winds up the water hose. |
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Underground sprinkler systemUnderground sprinkler systems are installed with some effort. They are only considered to be viable for perennial crops and are often located in orchards. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.