Elements and Performance Criteria
- Monitor crop/plant water use
- Apply a measured amount of water
- Assess efficacy of irrigation and repeat cycles of irrigation
- Effectiveness of irrigation application with in-field equipment is measured.
- The estimated soil moisture level in scheduling system is adjusted to match that measured.
- Where necessary, the scheduling system(s) is recalibrated.
- Cycles of irrigation are repeated until schedule is correctly established.
- Record irrigation and scheduling parameters
- Plan for extremes of weather
- Estimated deficits are modified to cater for any prolonged saturation following heavy rainfall.
- Shift areas, and where applicable, application rates, are altered to suit appropriate irrigation schedules that minimise frost damage.
- Strategies involving prioritising of plants/crops and intermittent irrigation are implemented at times of extreme heat.