Topics Concerning Sprinkler Irrigation
Sprinkler irrigation is the most common type of irrigation in Wisconsin. Sprinkler irrigation waters crops through a pressurized system of pipes and spray or impact nozzles. The objective is to apply the right amount of water at the right time.
Properly designed and managed sprinkler systems can regulate soil moisture and temperature, apply fertilizers and pesticides, provide frost protection and apply liquid waste and separated liquid manure.
Computer Software Program for Scheduling Irrigation:
- The Wisconsin Irrigation Scheduling Program (WISP) is a free, research-based program that uses a water budget approach to irrigation scheduling much like balancing a checkbook. Find the program here.
Publications:
- Irrigation Management in Wisconsin, publication A3600-01, is a University of Wisconsin-Extension publication about crop irrigation. Read or download it here, or at the UW-Extension Learning Store website.
- Methods to Monitor Soil Moisture, publication A3600-02, is a University of Wisconsin-Extension publication about how to monitor soil moisture. Read or download it here, or find it at the UW-Extension Learning Store website.
More Resources on Sprinkler Irrigation:
Below are more resources on sprinkler irrigation. Click on the title of each publication or resource to go to the link and read or download the information.
- Optimal Performance from Center Pivot Sprinkler Systems, by B. King and D. Kincaid, University of Idaho College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension System Agricultural Experiment Stations bulletin 797.
- Center Pivot Irrigation, by L. New and G. Fipps, Texas A&M Agri Life Extension publication B-6096.
- Center pivot irrigation systems; high pressure to low pressure, by I. Broner, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension publication 4.704.
Equipment Suppliers:
- A list of equipment suppliers for sprinkler irrigation is available here. The inclusion of equipment manufacturers and/or product names are for example purposes only and does not constitute endorsement or condemnation if not included by the University of Wisconsin or University of Wisconsin-Extension.
