Probably the simplest way of ensuring efficiency is to avoid irrigation during the noon and early afternoon hours when temperature and evaporation potential are at their greatest. This alone can reduce water consumption by 7 to 30 percent. Additional savings can be achieved by close monitoring of crop water consumption and soil moisture levels, accounting for seasonal variations in evapotranspiration, and ensuring maintenance and improvements to pumps, pipelines, and nozzles within the system.
For additional information, visit the following pages:
Introduction to Energy Efficient Irrigation
Irrigation Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
Mike Morris, National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA)
Vern Grubinger, University of Vermont Extension
