Irrigation amounts can vary widely by year and crop. In 2008 most of north Georgia was in the second year of an exceptional drought. Restrictions on certain types of irrigation reduced irrigation application depths or area irrigated in some cases, particularly for golf courses and athletic fields. At the same time late freezes brought about sprinkler application to blueberries, peaches, and apples for frost protection. Southwest and South Central Georgia faced a severe drought the spring that especially affected corn irrigation amounts. By summer, rains returned reducing the severity of the drought.
High value species like recreational turf grass on golf courses and athletic fields, as well as plant nurseries and sod farms, require water during a longer periods of the year than row or vegetable crops.
Note:
This information was compiled from estimates supplied by County Extension Agents of the Georgia Cooperative Extension Service for educational purposes only.
Sources:
Harrison, K. A. 2009. Geroria Irrigation Survey - 2008. CES Misc. Pub. January 22, 2009. Athens, GA. download a copy
Harrison, K. A. 2005. Irrigation Survey for Georgia. p. In. K. J. Hatcher (ed.) Proceedings of the 2005 Georgia Water Resources Conference. Univ. of Georgia Institute of Ecology, Athens, Ga.
Harrison, K. A. and A. W. Tyson. 2001. Irrigation survey for Georgia. p.421-424. In. K. J. Hatcher (ed.) Proceedings of the 2001 Georgia Water Resources Conference. Univ. of Georgia Institute of Ecology, Athens, Ga.