Irrigation Systems for More Efficient Water Usage

Imagine how today’s farmers would struggle if they had to provide water for vast fields of growing crops without the help of an irrigation system. In practice, evidence suggests that farmers have been developing increasingly effective ways to distribute the life-giving liquid around their fields since at least 6000 BC. Ancient Egyptians took advantage of annual flooding by the Nile, digging channels to divert the floodwater into the surrounding sun-baked fields. Some 3,000 years later, they began constructing elaborate systems of dams and canals to extend the growing area. In the earliest attempt to mechanise the process, the Romans built water wheels fitted with clay pots and driven by the current or pack animals.

By contrast, modern irrigation systems are far more sophisticated, employing motorised pumps and pipelines to transport water under pressure to where it is needed. Such systems enable the farmer to exercise greater control over water distribution – an essential requirement for current intensive farming practices.

Commercial and Domestic Irrigation

While agriculture consumes the lion’s share of this vital natural resource, commercial and domestic users also account for a significant percentage of the world’s water consumption between them. Those immaculately manicured greens typical of our golf courses also rely on sprinkler systems to provide the controlled irrigation necessary to maintain their texture and colour throughout the four seasons. For the greenhouse owner, drip-feed systems ensure that each plant receives the water it needs and no more, ensuring healthy growth and conservative water usage.

Gardens offer homeowners an oasis of calm and natural beauty and an escape from the urban jungle for those with space to spare. Of course, creating and maintaining a garden can also involve a lot of time and hard work. However, once the lawns and flower beds are established, installing an irrigation system will eliminate the need to spend hours and the risk of leaving soggy or dry patches when watering them with a hose. A quality system may include a timing mechanism to ensure that both the grass and flowering plants receive enough water before switching off selected sprinklers to prevent overwatering and waste. Some products may even include a sensor to detect rain and cease operating when indicated.

A garden hose can offer none of these benefits and will also consume more water, adding to your monthly bill and the mounting pressure on municipalities to cope with the growing demand. An irrigation system is not a luxury but an investment that will buy you more leisure time while contributing to crucial conservation efforts. Water Pump Group have the products, experience and expertise to plan, supply, and install the perfect irrigation system for your home or business.