Micro irrigation can give your company many benefits from a financial and an environmental perspective. Micro irrigation is an irrigation method that distributes water using a hydraulic pipe network. Most businesses use micro irrigation because it saves water, has better fertilizer distribution and produces higher quality plants. It can also be used in almost any type of terrain or climate.

Micro irrigation offers many different types of irrigation. The most common available types are in-line drip tubing, drip emitters and micro-sprays. It is important to get all the micro irrigation information you can before you decide if micro irrigation is appropriate for your company.

1. Find micro irrigation requirements for a company to see if you are able to use this system of irrigation.

2. Look at the short-term and long-term benefits of micro irrigation and see how the benefits would help your company.

3. Make sure that you check the credentials of the micro irrigation company that you hire to ensure that they are certified to install these systems.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Take the time to get up-to-date micro irrigation information

It is important for the success of your micro irrigation system if you learn as much information about it as possible. Find a class or conference to attend that will provide you with the latest micro irrigation information and regulations.

I recommend: Microirrigation Forum has a variety of resources where you can easily access information for upcoming meetings, online tutorials, research groups and associations. The Irrigation Association also has a wealth of information, including a micro irrigation list of seminars and the latest news on micro irrigation and other irrigation methods.

Know your micro irrigation options

If you are considering micro irrigation, there are several micro irrigation methods you may want to consider. You need to determine what your company's needs are in terms of the cost, effectiveness and long-term use of each method.

I recommend: DripWorks offers a variety of micro irrigation solutions depending on the size and location of your business, what type of project you have and water restrictions. It has an online video to help you determine what your irrigation needs are, a product catalog and informational forums. The Toro Company has different products and education resources for micro irrigation methods. It also has design aids to assist you if you already know what project you have in mind.

Get a micro irrigation provider

When in doubt about what type of micro irrigation will work best for you, get a micro irrigation provider. A micro irrigation provider will evaluate your company's needs, design a system that will be tailored to your company's expectations, and help with operation and maintenance.

I recommend: Netafim offers initial micro irrigation studies and solutions that range from everyday agricultural needs to irrigation control products. T-Tape Solutions provides technical support, online design and agronomic solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure you use the correct filter for your micro irrigation system. If the correct filter is not used, the system can get clogged.
• •  Remember that micro irrigation only wets certain areas of the soil. You will have to watch the plants to ensure they do not get too dry. If that happens, you may need to install an additional sprinkler system for these dry areas.