The Living Water Smart program now has available a collection of weather stations for Darwin and Katherine, displaying up to date weather data suitable for adjusting the irrigation controller on your premises to minimise water use for irrigation of gardens.
Go to the www.livingwatersmart.com.au web site and search for the Darwin weather web. A bit convoluted to find, but if in Darwin your suburb will be covered by the system, if not now, coming very soon. Some areas may offer a choice of a site nearer than your suburb name, as the system is based on school locations.
They recommend 30mm of rain or irrigation per week as adequate. Others might suggest more or less, but a definite improvement over the often stupid option of letting the system run as it wants.
Save water, save money and improve your garden by using a suitable amount of water - often by adding no irrigation for the wet season period of November to April, but caution that for 2019/20 with a late wet season likely, you might need to keep up irrigation for a while longer, except for periods after storms.
Find the site and use it........save water and $$!
Showing posts with label irrigation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label irrigation. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Friday, February 22, 2019
Soil Moisture Monitoring by Drone
Australian stuff from Monash University. Very neat and very useful.
Monash University engineers are working with Australian farmers to help them improve irrigation practices by using autonomous drone technology. (Image source: Monash )
Autonomous Drones for Soil Moisture Mapping Help Farmers Use Water More Efficiently (Video)
Monash University engineers are working with Australian farmers to help them improve irrigation practices, reduce water use and maximise crop harvest by using autonomous drone technology.
As severe drought continues to devastate farmland and impact food supply across Australia, a Monash University research team, led by Professor Jeff Walker, has spent the past two years developing a drone-based autonomous soil moisture mapping system for irrigated paddocks.
Monash University engineers are working with Australian farmers to help them improve irrigation practices by using autonomous drone technology. (Image source: Monash )
The team has recently completed field experiments using optical mapping which can determine soil moisture levels in the near-surface. The data taken from the drone can be downloaded and used to produce a map of ground soil moisture levels to inform the farmer on how best to irrigate the paddock.
While equipped with optical mapping as a proof-of-concept, the drone has now advanced to passive microwave sensing technology using L-Band waves, with further research being conducted on the potential for using P-band waves. P-Band waves are expected to be able to measure up to 15cm into the soil unimpeded by vegetation and tillage features.
Drones have the capacity to analyse soil moisture at metre-level scales within a paddock, allowing farmers to focus on specific crop irrigation, and overcomes the challenges of aircraft or satellite mapping.
Testing has taken place across two farms in regional Victoria and Tasmania. One was at a dairy farm using a centre pivot irrigator and the other was a crop farm using a linear shift irrigator.
“We need to produce 60% more food with the same amount of land and water, and we can only achieve this by being more efficient with the water we use through irrigation,” Professor Walker, Head of Civil Engineering at Monash University, said.
“We need to know how much the crop needs, how much moisture is already there and apply just the right amounts of water in the correct places to avoid wastage while keeping the crop at its peak growth.”
Good soil moisture allows for the optimal growth and yield of crops, while at broader spatial scales also regulates weather, climate and flooding. The water levels in the soil controls evaporation over land and thus the energy fluxes into the atmosphere. This drives the atmospheric circulation, which drives climate.
“If the soil is too dry, crops can fail due to a lack of water. But if the soil is too wet, crops can not only fail but pests and diseases can flourish,” Professor Walker said.
Professor Walker said the farming industry has welcomed smarter and more automated practices, but there are few tools available to make the already difficult workloads of farmers more manageable.
“At best, farmers might have a single soil moisture sensor in a paddock, but this doesn’t allow for the optimal application of water, especially as this resource becomes scarcer. Plus it won’t take into account moisture variation levels across the individual paddocks,” Professor Walker said.
As crop failures due to a lack of water have enormous human and financial consequences, Professor Walker said Australian farmers need to become more efficient in soil moisture mapping by using ‘precision agriculture’ methods such as autonomous soil moisture mapping using drones.
“Farmers also need to cooperate; water conservation and efficiency is a collective responsibility. Everyone needs to do their part to use water more effectively or we’re at risk of running out completely,” Professor Walker said.
“As the world’s driest continent facing climate change, a growing population and a greater demand for food, water conservation should be one of Australia’s top priorities.”
This project is part of Monash University’s expanding interdisciplinary focus on the use of data and technology to solve real-world problems for today and in the future.
The Autonomous Drones for Soil Moisture Mapping project was funded by Monash Infrastructure through a seed funding scheme. This project forms part of Professor Walker’s wider research into soil moisture mapping and autonomous farming.
News source: Monash University
Video source: Posterboy Media on Vimeo
Monday, July 18, 2016
Solar Pumping for Farm Irrigation
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While using solar energy for farm water pumping is not new, nor is this the first ever story on the subject it does highlight that this approach is now effectively MAINSTREAM.
And it can work in many many locations around Australia and the world.
Sure capital cost is an issue so a planned approach to financing is important........but it has a big payoff in cost savings and a feel good outcome too. And it works........that has to be a critical issue as well in the present time of 2016!
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Smarter Irrigation
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| turf irrigation |
The initiative aims to create awareness about water waste outdoors and encourage Australians to practise efficient water use by making small adjustments when watering gardens or lawns.
According to Reece Irrigation Business Development Manager Eric Barsky, “While most people understand how to save water inside, we still have a long way to go in educating people on saving water outside.”
With this in mind, Reece has come up with a few simple tips to avoid overwatering, save money and protect our national water supply:
- Water early [ or late], and don’t bother when it’s windy. Watering the garden and lawn in the morning reduces water loss to evaporation. Watering when it’s windy is a waste of time.
- Choose the right plants for the Australian climate. Select plants that are drought tolerant and tropically adapted over plants that are thirsty, resulting in less watering and a healthy garden all year round.
- Group plants with similar moisture needs in the same area, making it easier to ensure they get the water they need without overwatering.
- Install a smart irrigation system. Smart irrigation systems minimise overwatering by adjusting to account for rain and cooler days. They will also reduce evaporation, run-off and weed growth especially pesky sedges - a sure sign of overwatering, thus promoting overall plant health.
- Maintain and upgrade automated irrigation systems to ensure they are working. Did you know a leaky sprinkler can waste up to 24,000 litres of water per month? Get an irrigation specialist in to check your watering systems for clogged or broken sprinkler heads.
- Use water efficient sprinkler heads where ever possible, and even if you do not have an automated system, efficient sprinkler heads improve water use efficiency.
These are sound ideas and with November weather here in the Top End - hot, windy and dry - all are worth implementing.
If you do not have automated "rain stop systems", most irrigation controllers have a switch - known as a rain stop switch. Use it - especially after a decent storm. You might not need to restart irrigation for 4-7 days after a good storm. That can save a lot of water.
Save water and save money.
Friday, October 02, 2015
Improve Your Irrigation Efficiency AND Save Water and $$
It is a broad generality that most home owners and commercial property managers over water both gardens and specially turf areas. We are not speaking about the events around establishing the area where extra water may be needed, but once the area is established.
Ideally, water needs to be available at 100 - 150mm below the surface, and there are irrigation systems that deliver water to that specification eg KISSS systems see www.kisss.com.au.
But there is usually a lot that can be done with existing overhead sprinkler systems before committing to a major retrofit.
Less frequent but longer irrigation periods are a first option, but often the period itself can be reduced. And it is not set and forget either - adjust both of these as seasons change, with naturally more water required in hot dry periods than cooler and damp seasons. And remember to irrigate early morning or early evening, when winds are lower as are temperatures. Adjusting droplet size and pressure may also be possible and that will improve efficiency too.
And do not forget to adjust the watering systems to avoid watering the hard surfaces where possible. Grass will not grow in concrete...........except weeds in cracks!
Even raising mowing height will help save water.
Using a rainstop or similar device to override the irrigation turning on is a very sensible option, as this prevents scheduled irrigation occurring if there has been rain. Surely it is sensible to not irrigate if it is not needed. Rainstop is a commercial Australian product used in commercial systems, but there are proprietary systems from major commercial brands.
While these save money, there is a cost to fit them.
But the bigger advantage is the health improvements to your turf or garden areas - with the first and most notable change likely to be reduced sedges in turf areas, an outcome driven by the drier surface conditions that help reduce these problem weeds. While sedges can be controlled with appropriate herbicides, they are not an instant fix [ maybe 12 -18 months to clean up an area] and really need to be used once irrigation regimes are adjusted, not before.
All of the above changes do not necessarily reduce the aesthetics of your lawn. Even a small amount of slow release fertiliser can help by improving the root systemof the turf species and thus extracting more water from depth
http://digital.waterefficiency.net/publication/?i=271411&pn=34#{"page":38,"issue_id":271411}
California is experiencing severe drought - somewhat similar to the experience in temperate Australia a few years ago, and this article [ link shown above] gives an overview of experiences there with improved irrigation management.
In north Australia with somewhere around 70% of water used outdoors, it is a very practical and relatively east option to save water used outdoors. Give it a go! Your garden and lawn area will benefit!
Ideally, water needs to be available at 100 - 150mm below the surface, and there are irrigation systems that deliver water to that specification eg KISSS systems see www.kisss.com.au.
But there is usually a lot that can be done with existing overhead sprinkler systems before committing to a major retrofit.
Less frequent but longer irrigation periods are a first option, but often the period itself can be reduced. And it is not set and forget either - adjust both of these as seasons change, with naturally more water required in hot dry periods than cooler and damp seasons. And remember to irrigate early morning or early evening, when winds are lower as are temperatures. Adjusting droplet size and pressure may also be possible and that will improve efficiency too.
And do not forget to adjust the watering systems to avoid watering the hard surfaces where possible. Grass will not grow in concrete...........except weeds in cracks!
Even raising mowing height will help save water.
Using a rainstop or similar device to override the irrigation turning on is a very sensible option, as this prevents scheduled irrigation occurring if there has been rain. Surely it is sensible to not irrigate if it is not needed. Rainstop is a commercial Australian product used in commercial systems, but there are proprietary systems from major commercial brands.
While these save money, there is a cost to fit them.
But the bigger advantage is the health improvements to your turf or garden areas - with the first and most notable change likely to be reduced sedges in turf areas, an outcome driven by the drier surface conditions that help reduce these problem weeds. While sedges can be controlled with appropriate herbicides, they are not an instant fix [ maybe 12 -18 months to clean up an area] and really need to be used once irrigation regimes are adjusted, not before.
All of the above changes do not necessarily reduce the aesthetics of your lawn. Even a small amount of slow release fertiliser can help by improving the root systemof the turf species and thus extracting more water from depth
http://digital.waterefficiency.net/publication/?i=271411&pn=34#{"page":38,"issue_id":271411}
California is experiencing severe drought - somewhat similar to the experience in temperate Australia a few years ago, and this article [ link shown above] gives an overview of experiences there with improved irrigation management.
In north Australia with somewhere around 70% of water used outdoors, it is a very practical and relatively east option to save water used outdoors. Give it a go! Your garden and lawn area will benefit!
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Irrigating A New Area of Zoysia Sown by Seed
It is absolutely critical to adequately irrigate a newly sown area of zoysia seed. Because the seed needs light to germinate, it is sown close to the surface.
The problem with that in warm weather is that the surface normally dries out quickly. You need to use a few tips and tricks to ensure that adequate moisture is available to keep the germination process ticking along, then there is the need for water to sustain the small seedlings, once the seed germinates.
Warmer weather tends to promote faster germination, with 7-10 days often enough to see seedlings in warm conditions, but up to 21 days if cooler. Remember, a ground temperature of 18 - 20C is about the bottom of the range to even get reasonable germination. If below this........wait a little longer.
In the sub tropics and tropics, it is possible to sow year round but growth will be slow in cooler months and waiting until the cooler weather is past is often the best idea, as growth really picks up once the days are longer, soil is warmer and night temperatures rise to around 18 -20C.
But the water regime and surface management are very important.
Adding a very light [ I stress light cover] of thin mulch such as sugar cane bagasse or a thin even cover of compost to the soil surface will both help hold moisture close to the surface as well as preventing rapid loss of moisture and acting as a protection barrier if there is heavy rain. The latter is almost inevitable in the tropics........and you need to plan for it.
Generally it is necessary to also irrigate several times during daylight hours to keep the surface moist....not wringing wet, just moist. You can use pop up sprinklers -run for a few minutes only. Unfortunately the output from sprinklers covers quite a range so time cannot be given. Remember a moist surface, not wringing wet.
Some systems allow many starts each day, but many only allow two or three. Ideally you need a good irrigation early in the morning and 2 or 3 short bursts during the day, with a modest spray later in the early evening. Many areas have evaporation rates of 7- 10mm each day if the weather is hot. Most of that needs to be replaced each day while the area is in the early stages.
Better than using pop up sprinklers is to use small, low pressure, low volume sprinklers used in horticulture and landscape applications. These operate on 12mm or 19mm pvc lines and deliver 1-2mm per hour, depending on the pressure. You also need a pressure reduction valve and inline filter to be most effective. Several brands are available, with Challenger mk2 a recommended type supplied through Philmac resellers.. These sprinklers have the water distributed evenly across the wetted diameter of the sprinkler, and the droplet impact is low. They come in a range of diameters [ up to about 12m]. Also, droplets are larger and less prone to wind influence. Costs for each sprinkler is less than $5 approximately.
These can be operated for an hour or so several times during the day [ through a normal irrigation controller and solenoid valve] to add a modest amount to the surface, refreshing the dampness on the surface. If operated for longer periods, they are suitable to fully irrigate the area, as they tend to be very efficient sprinklers as well.
Once the area is about 3-4 weeks old, irrigation can be reduced and adjusted to using several days per week [ rather than every day] and also altering the duration of each irrigation to adequately wet the area, to help create a deep root system. That bit of drying out between waterings helps promote roots searching for water deeper in the profile to develop a resilient turf area.
Once established, zoysia turf is quite water efficient and tends to be drought tolerant, requiring less water than many other turf grasses of high quality.
Overwatering promotes weeds, especially sedges eg nutgrass and Mullumbimby couch. Best to be a bit light on with the water on established areas of zoysia!
Enjoy your zoysia turf. Remember......the payoff is less mowing!
The problem with that in warm weather is that the surface normally dries out quickly. You need to use a few tips and tricks to ensure that adequate moisture is available to keep the germination process ticking along, then there is the need for water to sustain the small seedlings, once the seed germinates.
Warmer weather tends to promote faster germination, with 7-10 days often enough to see seedlings in warm conditions, but up to 21 days if cooler. Remember, a ground temperature of 18 - 20C is about the bottom of the range to even get reasonable germination. If below this........wait a little longer.
In the sub tropics and tropics, it is possible to sow year round but growth will be slow in cooler months and waiting until the cooler weather is past is often the best idea, as growth really picks up once the days are longer, soil is warmer and night temperatures rise to around 18 -20C.
But the water regime and surface management are very important.
Adding a very light [ I stress light cover] of thin mulch such as sugar cane bagasse or a thin even cover of compost to the soil surface will both help hold moisture close to the surface as well as preventing rapid loss of moisture and acting as a protection barrier if there is heavy rain. The latter is almost inevitable in the tropics........and you need to plan for it.
Generally it is necessary to also irrigate several times during daylight hours to keep the surface moist....not wringing wet, just moist. You can use pop up sprinklers -run for a few minutes only. Unfortunately the output from sprinklers covers quite a range so time cannot be given. Remember a moist surface, not wringing wet.
Some systems allow many starts each day, but many only allow two or three. Ideally you need a good irrigation early in the morning and 2 or 3 short bursts during the day, with a modest spray later in the early evening. Many areas have evaporation rates of 7- 10mm each day if the weather is hot. Most of that needs to be replaced each day while the area is in the early stages.
Better than using pop up sprinklers is to use small, low pressure, low volume sprinklers used in horticulture and landscape applications. These operate on 12mm or 19mm pvc lines and deliver 1-2mm per hour, depending on the pressure. You also need a pressure reduction valve and inline filter to be most effective. Several brands are available, with Challenger mk2 a recommended type supplied through Philmac resellers.. These sprinklers have the water distributed evenly across the wetted diameter of the sprinkler, and the droplet impact is low. They come in a range of diameters [ up to about 12m]. Also, droplets are larger and less prone to wind influence. Costs for each sprinkler is less than $5 approximately.
These can be operated for an hour or so several times during the day [ through a normal irrigation controller and solenoid valve] to add a modest amount to the surface, refreshing the dampness on the surface. If operated for longer periods, they are suitable to fully irrigate the area, as they tend to be very efficient sprinklers as well.
Once the area is about 3-4 weeks old, irrigation can be reduced and adjusted to using several days per week [ rather than every day] and also altering the duration of each irrigation to adequately wet the area, to help create a deep root system. That bit of drying out between waterings helps promote roots searching for water deeper in the profile to develop a resilient turf area.
Once established, zoysia turf is quite water efficient and tends to be drought tolerant, requiring less water than many other turf grasses of high quality.
Overwatering promotes weeds, especially sedges eg nutgrass and Mullumbimby couch. Best to be a bit light on with the water on established areas of zoysia!
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| From the left - dripline, pressure reduction valve, filter , connection to water supply |
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Chinese Win Right to Develop Ord Stage 2
One of the worst kept secrets is now public knowledge - The Chinese company has been the winning bidder for Ord Stage 2 to develop the irrigation extension, and will develop a sugar mill and sugar farming.
It is a 50 year lease, not a sale.
It is expected that further development of the Wyndham port will occur, as the obvious export point for the sugar. There are other complementary issues - co-generation of electricity, probable bioethanol production, along with the farming and general developent of the area.
AND......it begs the question.......will the NT side of the border be the next to be developed?? That is still probably 5-7 years away, maybe even 10 years, but it is a logical step to take.
The ABC has quite an article on the web site - http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-11-20/chinese-company-wins-ord-stage-2-tender/4381920
But I expect there might be a lot more detail to be available later today.
A big development issue for the north to get a tick. It has been a long time coming!
UPDATE - As expected, more information is becoming available on this story, with this link providing more details from the ABC WA country hour web site: http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/201211/s3636837.htm
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Successfully Establishing Turfgrass is Best Done by Mowing Higher
Cut high to help turfgrass establish seems to be the rule.
The most resilient turf has deep roots that can reach the deep water in the soil profile. New turf must be watered regularly until the deep roots develop, but regular watering discourages the turf from rooting deeply, because the turf gets all the water it needs at the surface. All the while, you’re wasting water.
So what can you, as the turf manager or home grower, do to speed up the deep rooting and so minimise the irrigation?
Researchers at the Texas A&M University, North Carolina State University and the University of Florida asked this question. To answer it, they grew plugs of turf (couch, zoysia grass, bahia grass and buffalo grass) in tall clear tubes, and tested combinations of nitrogen (N) fertiliser and mowing height. Two rates of N approximated the lower and higher ends of the normal recommended range. Two cutting heights (which depended on species) represented heavy and light mowing.
Two conclusions were evident:
- The higher N rate encouraged faster rooting.
- The higher cutting height encouraged better rooting.
Cutting height had no effect on the rate of root growth, although it had a big effect on root mass: the low cut greatly reduced root mass.
Bahia grass achieved the best root growth (depth and mass) in the high N, high cut combination. But Zoysia grass did best in the low N, high cut combination. The results depended as much on the species as on the treatments.
Overall, maintaining a high cutting height did far more to encourage rooting than applying high N fertiliser. The authors recommended that turf managers cut establishing turf to the highest height recommended for the species.
This is especially relevant for zoysia grass, where we are already recommending half of the nitrogen rates that appear on most fertiliser bags. Zoysia does not respond to high nitrogen particularly well, as it is naturally a slower growing grass. We would suggest a cut height of around 45 -50mm initially, reducing to the more conventional cut height of around 20 - 25mm.
For Bahia grass, a high cut is 65 -75mm, and low cut 35mm, with commercial operators using 45mm. For Bahia, one might need to also temper cut height and frequency with a need to remove seed heads, which direct fertilisers into reproduction, which is not needed during estabishment.
This also fits well with convention that says that a higher cut height during stress periods is beneficial - for this you could interpret stress as high temperatures and low water availability eg September - mid December in north Australia.
[partially sourced from SESL Newsletter September 2012]
Wherley BG et al. 2011. Nitrogen and cutting height influence root development during warm-season turfgrass sod establishment. Agronomy Journal 103: 1629–1634.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Effective Turf Irrigation
Water costs money. Wind also costs money - because it wastes water. So does hot weather - irrigation is less effective when the day is hot, too easily evaporated.
It is critical to get water into the ground where it can be most effective. Plenty of leaflets, web pages and word of mouth have been produced about making irrigation more effective, but most advice comes back to just a few key areas:
Another variable worth considering is water droplet size, with smaller droplets likley to be more easily lost and never contribute to irrigating the turf. Pressure and sprinkler head design are some of the issues to consider, and also think of this in conjunction with the first two points. There is an ideal size range of droplets, but larger rather than smaller drops is generally better. Easily seen on a windy day as you watch the fine droplets being blown away. [ see above in the photo]
Some of these can be rectified to some degree, and there are alternates in irrigation design and system approaches.
System design - consderation in switching to something such as KISSS is worth considering. This is a sub surface textile wrapped concept in which the water is delivered underground at the bottom of the root zone. A little more expensive to install it can repay costs in a short period with much lower water use. Reductions of 50 -70% in water use have been achieved. And the turf area is available at all times, even while irrigating. See www.kisss.com.au - it is an Australian concept and has been used for over 12 years.
But most opt to better manage sprinklers by better timing eg evening, when conditions are better for irrigation - lower temperatures, less wind especially.
BUT....low pressure sprinklers with superior nozzle design that creates superior droplets can also be effective in doing even better. For example with sprinklers designed for 200kpa [ in essence drip systems] with low volume sprinklers operating at low pressures. Examples of this include using sprinklers similar to those used in tree crop growing, but with an even spread of irrigation water across the whole of the wetted diameter, or newer specific turf type sprinklers. Our own experience is that water use can be reduced at least 25 -40% over ordinary higher pressure pop up sprinkler systems. Also adaptable to use with timing systems.
Maintenance of your own system is critical to efficiency. Avoid watering the concrete or road, keep nozzles clean and avoid overwatering with better frequency and timing management. Overwatering usually results in sedges and nutgrass weeds, ultimately severly compromising the turf quality.
Water is NOT a substitute for adequate nutrition, and remember that mostly when you mow, you remove the clippings - and nutrients go with them; so at least try to reuse the clippings on gardens or for mulching.
Irrigation in the dry tropics here in Darwin is really needed for a good turf . Irrigate wisely for a better lawn, at less cost.
It is critical to get water into the ground where it can be most effective. Plenty of leaflets, web pages and word of mouth have been produced about making irrigation more effective, but most advice comes back to just a few key areas:
- water when there is little or no wind - that way there is less evaporation of the water during the time it is in the air and with low wind the application of the water from sprinklers is more evenly distributed and is delivered to the target area, not somewhere else.
- avoid watering when it is hot - there is more evaporation of the water in the air before reaching the target, the grass surface is usually hot, meaning some greater losses from evaporation and transpiration on the grass and the ground near the surface is also hot adding to water losses
Another variable worth considering is water droplet size, with smaller droplets likley to be more easily lost and never contribute to irrigating the turf. Pressure and sprinkler head design are some of the issues to consider, and also think of this in conjunction with the first two points. There is an ideal size range of droplets, but larger rather than smaller drops is generally better. Easily seen on a windy day as you watch the fine droplets being blown away. [ see above in the photo]
Some of these can be rectified to some degree, and there are alternates in irrigation design and system approaches.
System design - consderation in switching to something such as KISSS is worth considering. This is a sub surface textile wrapped concept in which the water is delivered underground at the bottom of the root zone. A little more expensive to install it can repay costs in a short period with much lower water use. Reductions of 50 -70% in water use have been achieved. And the turf area is available at all times, even while irrigating. See www.kisss.com.au - it is an Australian concept and has been used for over 12 years.
But most opt to better manage sprinklers by better timing eg evening, when conditions are better for irrigation - lower temperatures, less wind especially.BUT....low pressure sprinklers with superior nozzle design that creates superior droplets can also be effective in doing even better. For example with sprinklers designed for 200kpa [ in essence drip systems] with low volume sprinklers operating at low pressures. Examples of this include using sprinklers similar to those used in tree crop growing, but with an even spread of irrigation water across the whole of the wetted diameter, or newer specific turf type sprinklers. Our own experience is that water use can be reduced at least 25 -40% over ordinary higher pressure pop up sprinkler systems. Also adaptable to use with timing systems.
Maintenance of your own system is critical to efficiency. Avoid watering the concrete or road, keep nozzles clean and avoid overwatering with better frequency and timing management. Overwatering usually results in sedges and nutgrass weeds, ultimately severly compromising the turf quality.
Water is NOT a substitute for adequate nutrition, and remember that mostly when you mow, you remove the clippings - and nutrients go with them; so at least try to reuse the clippings on gardens or for mulching.
Irrigation in the dry tropics here in Darwin is really needed for a good turf . Irrigate wisely for a better lawn, at less cost.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
A US Farmer's View on Biotech
Too often the urban public attack farmers and agriculture - as producing too much, too little, or poor food sources.
A farmer has hit back - quietly and with dignity.
Read more here - http://westernfarmpress.com/print/government/gmos-biotechnology-offer-agricultural-blessings?page=1
pointing out a few fundamental flaws in some of the arguments used to condemn farmers and the crops and livestock they grow.
Well worth a brief read.
A farmer has hit back - quietly and with dignity.
Read more here - http://westernfarmpress.com/print/government/gmos-biotechnology-offer-agricultural-blessings?page=1
pointing out a few fundamental flaws in some of the arguments used to condemn farmers and the crops and livestock they grow.
Well worth a brief read.
Friday, November 14, 2008
FINALLY - GM cotton comes to the Ord
The Western Australian government has had a touch of reality, at last. With around 90% of Australia's cotton producers already using GM cotton, reality has come. These existing GM cotton growers have not had terrible issues, so the WA government has issued a media statement in which they accept the potential for GM cotton on the Ord.
There has been a lot of agronomic research to show that GM cotton can be grown successfully in the north west of Australia, it will not be a long term weed problem and that insects can be managed successfully and cheaper.
NOW........will the Northern Territoy government also accept reality and also lift their ban on GM cotton? That will be interesting.
Using GM cotton and restarting cotton production in the NW of Australia may just be the kick start needed to really push the development of the area. Combine cotton with other products already grown and the viability of the region may be significantly enhanced.
The media statement is reproduced below.
It is a GOOD day!
Fri 14 November, 2008
New potential for GM cotton production in the East Kimberley
Portfolio: Agriculture and Food
The State Government will lift the moratorium on the commercial production of genetically modified cotton at East Kimberley’s Ord River Irrigation Area.
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman made the announcement in Kununurra today, breaking Western Australia’s moratorium on all large-scale growing of GM cotton.
Mr Redman said the decision had been taken after extensive GM cotton trials in the Ord River area during the last decade, under the supervision of the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, Department of Agriculture and Food and CSIRO.
“The trial crops have been very successful from a production point of view, yielding almost 11.5 bales a hectare,” he said.
“Over the years, trials of GM cotton in the Ord have frequently out-yielded Australian production by about 10 per cent.
“These trials have shown that there are no agronomic problems, including the control of insects, in growing GM cotton in the Ord. Importantly, there have been no environmental concerns with the crops.”
The Minister said the issue of GM cotton had been widely canvassed by Governments with consultative processes within industry, the community and traditional owners of the land, the Miriuwung Gajerrong people.
“The go-ahead for GM cotton adds further impetus to the potential for an expanded Ord irrigation area. Irrigation and land planning issues have been very carefully considered,” he said.
“The Government is currently looking at the East Kimberley Development package which includes expanding the Ord irrigation area from 13,000ha to more than 50,000ha of cropped land in the long term.”
More than 90 per cent of Australia’s cotton production was already GM.
“In the 1970s, WA tried growing non-GM cotton and it was a disaster, with the plants infested with pests,” the Minister said.
“Growers had to spray pesticides up to 40 times each season. In comparison, our GM cotton trials have only required two spray applications with insecticides that are far more environmentally-friendly than the now banned DDT used in the 1970s.”
Mr Redman said GM cotton should become a major new profitable industry for WA.
“The previous State Government-appointed reference group on GM crops released a report last year which estimated that GM cotton could be worth more than $50million a year to the East Kimberley, generating more than 200 full-time jobs,” he said.
“GM cotton is an alternative crop option which could help secure the future of the Ord as a major agricultural region. Cotton growers facing severe water shortages in the Eastern States will also have an alternative site that is well supplied with water all year round and we may see some of their operations move to the Ord, providing relief to the Murray Darling system.
“Today’s decision to allow commercial production of GM cotton in the Ord provides growers with a new opportunity to re-launch the cotton industry for this State, this time with the likelihood of much better outcomes.
“I recognise the complexity of issues surrounding the introduction of GM crops and I believe in the delivery of market choice. The Government is continuing to look at the risk management issues surrounding GM canola, with no decision to allow trials as yet.
“Labelling is clearly one aspect of ensuring consumers are provided with adequate information to enable them to choose between GM and non-GM food products.
“Australia has a rigorous food safety system that stipulates labelling requirements for GM foods. However, I am keen to investigate whether there is opportunity for improvements to the current labelling laws and compliance of those laws to better assist in consumer choice.”
There has been a lot of agronomic research to show that GM cotton can be grown successfully in the north west of Australia, it will not be a long term weed problem and that insects can be managed successfully and cheaper.
NOW........will the Northern Territoy government also accept reality and also lift their ban on GM cotton? That will be interesting.
Using GM cotton and restarting cotton production in the NW of Australia may just be the kick start needed to really push the development of the area. Combine cotton with other products already grown and the viability of the region may be significantly enhanced.
The media statement is reproduced below.
It is a GOOD day!
Fri 14 November, 2008
New potential for GM cotton production in the East Kimberley
Portfolio: Agriculture and Food
The State Government will lift the moratorium on the commercial production of genetically modified cotton at East Kimberley’s Ord River Irrigation Area.
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman made the announcement in Kununurra today, breaking Western Australia’s moratorium on all large-scale growing of GM cotton.
Mr Redman said the decision had been taken after extensive GM cotton trials in the Ord River area during the last decade, under the supervision of the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, Department of Agriculture and Food and CSIRO.
“The trial crops have been very successful from a production point of view, yielding almost 11.5 bales a hectare,” he said.
“Over the years, trials of GM cotton in the Ord have frequently out-yielded Australian production by about 10 per cent.
“These trials have shown that there are no agronomic problems, including the control of insects, in growing GM cotton in the Ord. Importantly, there have been no environmental concerns with the crops.”
The Minister said the issue of GM cotton had been widely canvassed by Governments with consultative processes within industry, the community and traditional owners of the land, the Miriuwung Gajerrong people.
“The go-ahead for GM cotton adds further impetus to the potential for an expanded Ord irrigation area. Irrigation and land planning issues have been very carefully considered,” he said.
“The Government is currently looking at the East Kimberley Development package which includes expanding the Ord irrigation area from 13,000ha to more than 50,000ha of cropped land in the long term.”
More than 90 per cent of Australia’s cotton production was already GM.
“In the 1970s, WA tried growing non-GM cotton and it was a disaster, with the plants infested with pests,” the Minister said.
“Growers had to spray pesticides up to 40 times each season. In comparison, our GM cotton trials have only required two spray applications with insecticides that are far more environmentally-friendly than the now banned DDT used in the 1970s.”
Mr Redman said GM cotton should become a major new profitable industry for WA.
“The previous State Government-appointed reference group on GM crops released a report last year which estimated that GM cotton could be worth more than $50million a year to the East Kimberley, generating more than 200 full-time jobs,” he said.
“GM cotton is an alternative crop option which could help secure the future of the Ord as a major agricultural region. Cotton growers facing severe water shortages in the Eastern States will also have an alternative site that is well supplied with water all year round and we may see some of their operations move to the Ord, providing relief to the Murray Darling system.
“Today’s decision to allow commercial production of GM cotton in the Ord provides growers with a new opportunity to re-launch the cotton industry for this State, this time with the likelihood of much better outcomes.
“I recognise the complexity of issues surrounding the introduction of GM crops and I believe in the delivery of market choice. The Government is continuing to look at the risk management issues surrounding GM canola, with no decision to allow trials as yet.
“Labelling is clearly one aspect of ensuring consumers are provided with adequate information to enable them to choose between GM and non-GM food products.
“Australia has a rigorous food safety system that stipulates labelling requirements for GM foods. However, I am keen to investigate whether there is opportunity for improvements to the current labelling laws and compliance of those laws to better assist in consumer choice.”
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Better Soil Counts - and Improves Water Use
Soil science is being overlooked in the rush to save Australia’s dwindling water reserves, says a leading group of researchers.
Some of the most promising ways to boost water use efficiency lie at our feet, claims Professor Emeritus Robert E White, former chair of the Australian Society of Soil Science Inc (ASSSI). “Soil science offers technologies for more efficient irrigation. Australian researchers are uniquely placed to optimise understandings into the soil-water link,” he said.“For example, irrigation efficiency is greatly improved if it is designed to take account of a soil’s capacity to store available water for plants, and its ability to drain excess water.“Efficiency is also improved if water application is matched to crop demand, which changes with the weather and a crop’s growth stage.”
Agriculture is Australia’s biggest consumer of water, accounting for about 65% of the total water use. Most of this water is used for irrigation. Prof White explained: “More efficient irrigation enables profitable agriculture to be maintained while making more water available for the environment, and soil science offers useful water-saving boosters.”Using techniques and tools such as Global Positioning Systems, in-ground soil sensors and computer-based Geographic Information Systems, irrigators can make precise maps of changes in soil properties as they occur in a single paddock, orchard block, or over a whole farm.“Soil surveys and high-resolution soil sensing underpin precision agriculture in Australia’s irrigation areas, which account for more than 40% of agricultural production.”
Sensors are also being developed to detect when a water front has reached the end of a flood irrigation bay. “A wireless signal sent to a computer-controlled operating system triggers the opening or closing a gate that controls water flow into the bay,” said Prof White. In this way, water application is timed to more closely match crop demand than is possible manually.“To ensure that essential supplies for irrigation are maintained and the rivers regain their health, water must be managed more efficiently”, he said. “Soil science is a fundamental tool to achieve this.”
The Australian Society of Soil Science Inc works toward the advancement of soil science in the professional, academic and technical fields.
Some of the most promising ways to boost water use efficiency lie at our feet, claims Professor Emeritus Robert E White, former chair of the Australian Society of Soil Science Inc (ASSSI). “Soil science offers technologies for more efficient irrigation. Australian researchers are uniquely placed to optimise understandings into the soil-water link,” he said.“For example, irrigation efficiency is greatly improved if it is designed to take account of a soil’s capacity to store available water for plants, and its ability to drain excess water.“Efficiency is also improved if water application is matched to crop demand, which changes with the weather and a crop’s growth stage.”
Agriculture is Australia’s biggest consumer of water, accounting for about 65% of the total water use. Most of this water is used for irrigation. Prof White explained: “More efficient irrigation enables profitable agriculture to be maintained while making more water available for the environment, and soil science offers useful water-saving boosters.”Using techniques and tools such as Global Positioning Systems, in-ground soil sensors and computer-based Geographic Information Systems, irrigators can make precise maps of changes in soil properties as they occur in a single paddock, orchard block, or over a whole farm.“Soil surveys and high-resolution soil sensing underpin precision agriculture in Australia’s irrigation areas, which account for more than 40% of agricultural production.”
Sensors are also being developed to detect when a water front has reached the end of a flood irrigation bay. “A wireless signal sent to a computer-controlled operating system triggers the opening or closing a gate that controls water flow into the bay,” said Prof White. In this way, water application is timed to more closely match crop demand than is possible manually.“To ensure that essential supplies for irrigation are maintained and the rivers regain their health, water must be managed more efficiently”, he said. “Soil science is a fundamental tool to achieve this.”
The Australian Society of Soil Science Inc works toward the advancement of soil science in the professional, academic and technical fields.
Friday, October 10, 2008
KISSS for Green Roof Applications
There is a new product by the KISSS group that is well suited to green roof applications. It is called Ebb and Flow mat
The KISSS Ebb and Flow Mat represents a giant leap forward in green roof technology. The mat is an integrated extensive green roof system that provides not only irrigation, but drainage and root protection. The Ebb and Flow Mat has several advantages over other systems, Most importantly, it is an "active" drainage system that intelligently manages the moisture level of your green roof soils. Additionally, this system is the most cost effective system on the market today.
The KISSS Ebb and Flow System is simple to install and saves a tremendous amount of labour. Additionally, it is easy to work with in the event that a roof leak should occur.
Simply roll out the Ebb and Flow mat onto the roof and overlap the mats as shown below. Finally, install your drainage system. Then you have an active drainage system, irrigation system, and root barrier all in the one system.
The KISSS Ebb and Flow System is simple to install and saves a tremendous amount of labour. Additionally, it is easy to work with in the event that a roof leak should occur.
Simply roll out the Ebb and Flow mat onto the roof and overlap the mats as shown below. Finally, install your drainage system. Then you have an active drainage system, irrigation system, and root barrier all in the one system.
The KISSS Ebb and Flow Advantage
The perfect solution for an extensive green roof on structures that are sensitive to water loading. This system provides an active drainage layer while elimination water holding on structure.
Integrated design and roll out installation reduces labour and eliminates the need for many of the standard components within other green roof systems, making it the lightest and most economical system in the market today.
The system can be manufactured to be compatible with conventional green roof systems and add supplementary drainage, as well as effective irrigation.
Light weight, flexibility, and low cost make it a prefect fit for any retro-fit with a restrictive weight allowance or budget.
Green Roof Frequently Asked Questions
Green Roof Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
The KISSS Green Roof product irrigates the soil media above it, and assists in the drainage of the soil to keep it at optimum moisture content. It does this without the soil being saturated, as saturated soil forces out air. Air in the soil media is just as important as water to plants, and especially on a roof where the minimum amount of soil media should be used to minimize the loading on the roof, and maximize the run-off in heavy rainfall. The difference between the KISSS system and other green roof irrigation systems is that it can drain the soil media at a gentle rate, and if the media is drier than the irrigation system, the system will provide more water to the media via capillary action. This keeps the top few centimetres reasonably dry which reduces evaporation and weeds germinating, but keeps the lower layers moist which encourages deeper root growth.
What soil/media can be used?
Plants of any kind can be grown on a green roof and the only limiting factors are enough soil media for support, moisture, air and nutrients. We suggest a light weight media product and there are a few in the market eg CocoEarth media mixed with sands of a particular grade to give stability and hold water and nutrients that are required. These can be provided by the installer.
How durable is the material?
The materials in the KISSS product are not biodegradable. They are synthetics that are made from polyester and polyethylene and do not break down in soil and do not compress easily. The materials are made in such a manner so that the water and nutrients runs along the fibres but do not fill the fibres and only the pore spaces in between the fibres hold the water, soil and nutrients.
What about roots damaging the materials?
The KISSS Green Roof product irrigates the soil media above it, and assists in the drainage of the soil to keep it at optimum moisture content. It does this without the soil being saturated, as saturated soil forces out air. Air in the soil media is just as important as water to plants, and especially on a roof where the minimum amount of soil media should be used to minimize the loading on the roof, and maximize the run-off in heavy rainfall. The difference between the KISSS system and other green roof irrigation systems is that it can drain the soil media at a gentle rate, and if the media is drier than the irrigation system, the system will provide more water to the media via capillary action. This keeps the top few centimetres reasonably dry which reduces evaporation and weeds germinating, but keeps the lower layers moist which encourages deeper root growth.
What soil/media can be used?
Plants of any kind can be grown on a green roof and the only limiting factors are enough soil media for support, moisture, air and nutrients. We suggest a light weight media product and there are a few in the market eg CocoEarth media mixed with sands of a particular grade to give stability and hold water and nutrients that are required. These can be provided by the installer.
How durable is the material?
The materials in the KISSS product are not biodegradable. They are synthetics that are made from polyester and polyethylene and do not break down in soil and do not compress easily. The materials are made in such a manner so that the water and nutrients runs along the fibres but do not fill the fibres and only the pore spaces in between the fibres hold the water, soil and nutrients.
What about roots damaging the materials?
Roots can invade the materials and run between the fibres, but will not penetrate the fibres themselves therefore the fibres still maintain their functions. The drip line that is in the system to supply the water to the geotextiles is encased in the geotextile for protection and also to make sure the water flows uninhibited across the fibres. The system is made to encourage the roots to invade the system to provide a source of water and nutrients and not to just rely on the soil above the system.
Can the system provide nutrients to the soil/media?
Can the system provide nutrients to the soil/media?
Liquid injection can be used with the KISSS system to add nutrients at any time. The benefit of the KISSS system is that the roots are in direct contact with the fibres in the system so that if nutrients are supplied through the water then the roots get access to these in solution immediately, thereby reducing the amount of fertiliser required. Controlled release fertilisers can be used on top of the plant material or soil media and the rainfall and moisture in the atmosphere will make these available over time, but 30% less fertiliser will be required than the rate for potted plants.
What can I grow on the green roof?
What can I grow on the green roof?
You can grow just about anything from lawn to shrubs to small trees to cactus to ferns to veggies for the family and it all depends on what you want and the aspect and climate of your roof. The simplest solution is to just turf your roof and have a veggie patch or flower garden. Small areas can be grown with a simple UV stabilised corflute structure that can be laid out on the mat and filled with media and planted out with whatever you desire.
What if I don’t want a green roof but want to grow my veggies or herbs?
What if I don’t want a green roof but want to grow my veggies or herbs?
KISSS has an answer with the combination of their ebb and flow mat and the veggie box on the mat. This can be planted out with flowers, herbs or veggies. The unit is 4.5m long by 1.2m wide and 200mm high. It can produce a wide range of veggies and herbs for all the family and can sit in the backyard on the ground and be connected to the tap and only requires two irrigation cycles of one hour each per week in summer and once a week in winter. It uses drip technology inside the ebb and flow mat to spread the water to the soil. The Cocoearth media is optional and can also be sent in the mail and you will require 12 blocks for a 4.5m long unit costing $80 plus postage and handling. Nutrients can be added by liquid form or organic fertiliser mixed in by shovel or chemical fertiliser as slow release. The corflute box is UV stabilised and light weight, and the system will last for 7 years under normal sunlight if the materials are not damaged by mechanical means or animals.
For more details see - http://www.kisss.com.au/kisss_ebb_flow_mat/green_roof_applications
For more details see - http://www.kisss.com.au/kisss_ebb_flow_mat/green_roof_applications
Monday, July 07, 2008
Oxygation Improves Sub-surface Drip Irrigation Efficiency
Glasshouse results have been repeated in field trials with oxygation.
We are very pro the concept of subsurface drip irrigation, as there are potential increases in watering efficiency, avoidance of wind which can influence irrigation distribution, opportunities to use recycled effluent - away from contact with people, and opportunities to arrange irrigation scheduling at your most convenient time - baesd on water availabiity and site usage. It has a lot going for it! It can also significantly reduce vandalism on sprinkler systems, often a scourge for operators.
We favour the system developed in Australia [see http://www.kisss.net.au/], which offers improved and more even distribution, especially for open space and or turf areas. We even have a few posts about the system [see posts list]. And there are other supplier systems too, but not as efficient as KISSS.
While we were aware of the potential for using air injection with subsurface irrigation, and there have been some detailed research papers published, the media release [amended slightly] below has confirmed the very real potential for the air injection option in real world situations. Yes......it was on heavy soils, something that is not that common for horticulture and definitely not an ideal soil for well used turf eg ovals, sporting fields. However, extension of the thinking may even allow further reductions in water use on predominantly urban turf areas, if similar results are obtained for lighter soils.
Air injection is not overly expensive, and can be easily installed on existing irrigation systems.
[media release partially sourced from Qld Rural News]
Irrigators may not be familiar with the term "oxygation", but for cotton water use efficiency researcher, Lance Pendergast, it is a sub-surface drip irrigation system that has delivered 12–23pc yield increases.
Mr Pendergast is a Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries rural water use efficiency development extension officer based at Emerald, and is finalising his PhD research examining the potential for SDI oxygation technology.
The 5.2 hectare sub-surface drip irrigation trial site on Tony Ronnfeldt's Emerald Irrigation Area farm, Nyang, was established seven years ago by the Department of Natural Resources and Water. This project was to evaluate water use efficiency and levels of herbicide, pesticide and fertiliser chemicals in irrigation runoff of SDI compared with conventional furrow irrigation. The site has 12 individually irrigated experimental blocks with SDI lines buried 300mm under the soil surface which are scheduled to deliver the precise volume of water to maintain optimum soil moisture in the crop root zone.
With a question mark over the below-expectation yield performance of cotton crops irrigated by SDI, Mr Pendergast's PhD project was to see if promising glasshouse experimental results using oxygation translated to the field. The trials were overseen by Central Queensland University's Professor David Midmore and have examined the potential benefits of oxygation – a technique that involves entraining air into irrigation water delivered via sub-surface drip lines. "Because of the high moisture holding capacity of the heavy soil, it was determined that the cotton plants were being subjected to episodic water logging events after each irrigation," Mr Pedergast said. "Although each event was short term, the cumulated effect incurred a final yield penalty preventing SDI irrigated cotton from achieving its full potential."
Mr Pendergast began field trialling oxygation technology three years ago using Mazzi injectors that were adjusted to deliver a 12pc air by volume mix into the water lines to alleviate the root zone water-logging. When comparing the crop performance of sub-surface drip between oxygated and non-oxygated blocks, there was a significant yield increase achieved through oxygation for the 2004-05 and 2005-06 trial crops (27pc and 16pc respectively). "The oxygation trials show that we can achieve significant increases in both yield and water use efficiency using this technique," Mr Pendergast said. "When we add up the water saving advantages and improved yield of oxygated sub-surface drip, growers who are prepared to adopt and manage the technology are in a better position to justify the high SDI capital cost of around $3500 to $4500/ha."
Monday, July 02, 2007
Will You Have To Pay For Your Own Dam Water in The NT Too?
The trend has now set in it seems to charge landowners for water they collect in farm dams, and for groundwater as well. Western Australia has introduced charges for dam water use, and South Australia is moving to charge for both groundwater and dam water rumour seems to indicate.
Will it come to this in the NT? And as is rightly noted in the article below, will large users such as mining companies also face similar charges at the same rates as farmers? Will the NT goverment charge the Power and Water Corporation for the dam water in their dams?
Farmers to pay for dam water in WA. - Friday, 29 June 2007
Farmers who spent time and money building their own dams to store water for stock and domestic uses have been told by WA Water Resources Minister, John Kobelke, that they will have to pay for the water they collect.
He said the changes would bring farmers using water from their large dams in line with those who use bore water. But, WAFarmers Water Resources spokesman, Steve Dilley, says this decision by the government is all 'smoke and mirrors'. “We are bewildered and disappointed at the Minister’s lack of understanding of the impact this will have on the average fruit and veggie grower and the family farming operations in the state,” Mr Dilley said. They will be paying, on average, from $600 to $1200 or $1800 a year, yet the Minister can exempt licence fees for more than 2,700 domestic bores which is a is a real slap in the face.
“How could any government proceed with a fee structure that makes family farms pay $1.02 to $2.40 a megalitre of water licensed, yet water utilities, big water cooperatives and mining companies only pay 14c a megalitre.
“I'm staggered that the Minister did not at least make the most obvious change and charge everyone the average cost of $2.27 per megalitre — at least that would have gone some way to making the fee structure fairer.”
Will it come to this in the NT? And as is rightly noted in the article below, will large users such as mining companies also face similar charges at the same rates as farmers? Will the NT goverment charge the Power and Water Corporation for the dam water in their dams?
Farmers to pay for dam water in WA. - Friday, 29 June 2007
Farmers who spent time and money building their own dams to store water for stock and domestic uses have been told by WA Water Resources Minister, John Kobelke, that they will have to pay for the water they collect.
He said the changes would bring farmers using water from their large dams in line with those who use bore water. But, WAFarmers Water Resources spokesman, Steve Dilley, says this decision by the government is all 'smoke and mirrors'. “We are bewildered and disappointed at the Minister’s lack of understanding of the impact this will have on the average fruit and veggie grower and the family farming operations in the state,” Mr Dilley said. They will be paying, on average, from $600 to $1200 or $1800 a year, yet the Minister can exempt licence fees for more than 2,700 domestic bores which is a is a real slap in the face.
“How could any government proceed with a fee structure that makes family farms pay $1.02 to $2.40 a megalitre of water licensed, yet water utilities, big water cooperatives and mining companies only pay 14c a megalitre.
“I'm staggered that the Minister did not at least make the most obvious change and charge everyone the average cost of $2.27 per megalitre — at least that would have gone some way to making the fee structure fairer.”
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
New Duckweed Water Treatment System Installed at Wickham
A new duckweed barrier water treatment system was installed for WA Water Corporation at Wickham in the Pilbara in mid June 2007, with the duckweed itself to be placed on site in July.
This is part of a serious evaluation of the concept for use in warmer areas of Australia where duckweed thrives year round.
The barriers provide the ideal still water conditions for duckweed growth in sewerage lagoons where there is adequate nutrients, plus plenty of sun, for growth. The duckweed aids in the elimination of the algal growth in the effluent which currently impacts effective reuse of the effluent for irrigation.
Currently the TSS level in the pond is very high [mainly algae], and it is expected that this will fall dramatically as duckweed growth accelerates and covers the pond. Reduction in bacterial levels are also expected, along with small reductions in nutrient levels [ which are still of benefit in most agricultural water reuse situations].
This is part of a serious evaluation of the concept for use in warmer areas of Australia where duckweed thrives year round.
The barriers provide the ideal still water conditions for duckweed growth in sewerage lagoons where there is adequate nutrients, plus plenty of sun, for growth. The duckweed aids in the elimination of the algal growth in the effluent which currently impacts effective reuse of the effluent for irrigation.
Currently the TSS level in the pond is very high [mainly algae], and it is expected that this will fall dramatically as duckweed growth accelerates and covers the pond. Reduction in bacterial levels are also expected, along with small reductions in nutrient levels [ which are still of benefit in most agricultural water reuse situations].
The photos are of before and after installation of the barriers. These systems significantly "quiet the water" , even with very windy conditions and allow for adequate growth of duckweed. Wind at the time of these photos was around 30km/hr.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Sub-surface Drip Irrigation -KISSS a superior option
While sub surface drip irrigation has been available for quite a few years now in Australia, with several of the major companies offering systems, a unique patented Australian system has improved the concept enormously.
Several major issues were identified by users of the existing systems:
- often poor water distribution with overwet soil near emitters, and near dry soil elsewhere
- this poor distribution often lead to poorly distributed root patterns
- root intrusion
- blocked emitters due to soil particles blocking the openings
- uneven soil water profile vertical distribution
- rapid loss of water below the root zone
While some of these are related to installation and management issues eg root intrusion can be corrected via herbicides, and blockages can be eased via correct pipe orientation, it has often meant more, not less hassles to use the system.
Enter KISSS - Kapillary Irrigation Sub Surface System in which most of these isuses are rectified and soil water for plant use is greatly enhanced. The concept can reduce irrigation water use by 60% over existing best practice overhead irrigation, and they have well verified trial results to back it up. See www.kisss.net.au for a lot more details. It is the enormous improvement in water wetting patterns that really allow KISSS to stand above all others.
The system uses existing sub surface piping and wraps it in a highly effective geotextile on the top of the pipe, with a polyethylene layer in the centre [ to stop water tunnelling to the surface] and a polyethylene layer below the pipe to dramatically reduce deep drainage. The geotextile creates an even distribution of water between emitters, and also essentially prevents root intrusion. While a herbicide treatment is useful, and there are systems available to allow this treatment, it may be thought of more as a useful tool, rather than essential to prevent root intrusion and thus impede water flow.
There have been many installations in Australia, and with severe drought along the east coast, users of the system have been able to reduce water use, and still maintian "green" areas. Major public sector bodies are using it very successfully, with most planning an expanded role for the system.
Naturally, as it is below ground, the concept has major potential to use any form of treated grey or sewerage effluent in an unrestricted access area..........people do not come into contact with the effluent! A number of systems are installed already, and more to come. In this case, all system piping uses the lilac colouring to distinguish it from the normal blue colour used with clean water.
Call 08 8948 1894 for more information in either electronic or hard copy format, or email to office@abovecapricorn.com.au
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