Elements and Performance Criteria
- Ensure the surface irrigation system is prepared for operation
- Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures for a surface irrigation system
- Start-up procedures for a sprinkler irrigation system are developed according to system specifications and technical manuals
- Training is provided in priming pumps and setting gates to commence irrigating
- Shut down sequence and isolation procedures are developed according to system specifications and technical manuals
- Soil conditions for operation are specified, or tracks maintained, to reduce compaction
- Measure performance of a surface irrigation system
- Variations in pressures at the headworks and control valves are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Water flow rates are measured and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Variations in water flow and distribution are identified and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Pump performance parameters are measured as necessary and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Variations in pump performance parameters are measured where relevant and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Distribution, drainage and water measurement systems are inspected and malfunctions in system are identified, fixed and actions recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Factors external to the system that may cause interference are identified and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Review system performance status
- System pressures and variations are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- System flow rates and variations are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Distribution uniformity and mean application rates are calculated and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Watering depth is determined and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Quantity and quality of tailwater are measured, and amount of water reused
- Calculations are made for energy use and water efficiency and compared to industry benchmarks