Existing Problem: Orchard Microsprinkler System
The base system is an orchard microsprinkler system typically consisting of one of two microsprinklers per tree with PVC mains and submains and polyethylene laterals. These systems are very similar to drip irrigation systems except that the discharge device is a small sprinkler which sprays the ground surface as opposed to a drip emitter which discharges water at or below the ground surface.

Water Conserving Practice: A drip system which is better maintained, scheduling is used, water meter installed, records maintained, and clogged emitters repaired.

The proposed system change is to convert the microsprinkler system to a drip system. This change would involve either simply replacing the microsprinklers with drip emitters or may require replacing the polyethylene laterals in addition to the microsprinklers.

¹Potential No. of Irrigation Systems Affected	100
Estimated Water Savings (%)	7.5 (5 to10)
²Average Year Water Savings (million gal.)	100
³Dry Year Water Savings (million gal.)	171
Est. Cost of Full Implementation on Avg. System ($, 1998)	$14,000
Statewide Costs for Full Implementation ($, 1998)	$1,400,000
Cost / Unit of Water Saved in Average Year ($, 1998 / million gal.)	$14,030

This conversion could potentially result in 5 to 10 percent water savings for a total potential water savings in an average year of 100 million gallons. The cost per unit of water saved is estimated to be $14,030 per million gallons.

It is unlikely that many of the systems would be converted to drip because the farmer probably had a reason for selecting microsprinklers over drip to begin with. Sme valid reasons for choosing microsprinklers include poor water quality, sandy soils, and ease of maintenance.

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.