In the early 70's most of the systems utilized portable aluminum pipe with high pressure sprinklers. These systems were highly labor intensive and were used primarily on small fields of tobacco and vegetables.

During the 70's and early 80's, the use of traveling guns increased dramatically. Use of these high pressure portable irrigation systems then declined because of their moderately high labor requirement, lower application efficiency, and higher costs of operation.

The number of center pivot systems and area irrigated by them has risen sharply since the late 70's. Likewise drip systems have grown moderately. While there are a number of reasons for the change in application systems, it is interesting to note that these two systems are considered to be the most efficient available today, both in terms of water use and energy efficiency. The majority of center pivot irrigation systems now employ low pressure sprinklers. Likewise changes in sprinkler technology have made certain sprinkler packages more efficient in their water delivery.