Existing Problem: No Current Irrigation Scheduling Method

Tensiometer Method The majority of irrigation systems do not use a consistent irrigation scheduling method. Typically, irrigation is the last "crop need" met following nutrients and pest control. Many crops are not receiving as much water as the crop actually needs, or irrigation may be started late. Often crop yields are lowered before the onset of wilting symptoms. In some cases, the crops are being over-irrigated to reduce the potential for drought-related stress (high value crops in particular). Effective timing of water maximizes return on investments in seed, fertilizers, land and other inputs.

Water Conserving Practice: Irrigation Scheduling with Irrigator Pro Models

¹Potential No. of Irrigation Systems Affected	11,700
²Estimated Water Savings (%)	0 (-10 - +10)
Average Year Water Savings (million gal.)
³Dry Year Water Savings (million gal.)
Est. Cost of Full Implementation on Avg. System ($, 1998)	$
Statewide Costs for Full Implementation ($, 1998)	$
Cost / Unit of Water Saved in Average Year ($, 1998 / million gal.)	0

Estimated of water savings and costs were not prepared for this method during the 1998 study.

An estimated 11,700 systems could benefit from an irrigation scheduling method.

Source: Evans, R.O., K.A. Harrison, J.E. Hook, C.V. Privette, W.I. Segars, W.B. Smith, D.L. Thomas, and A.W. Tyson. 1998. Irrigation conservation practices appropriate for the Southeastern United States. D.L. Thomas (ed.) Geologic Survey Project Report No. 32. Georgia Geologic Survey, Georgia Department Of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, Atlanta, GA 30334. 43p.