With the rising cost of fuel, electricity, water and other inputs, farmers are forced to be efficient. Minimising wastage as far as possible is no longer negotiable. Which is why using an efficient irrigation system is paramount, Mias Borcherds, Netafim technical advisor in the Western Cape explains.
In the past few weeks we’ve explained why it’s crucial to irrigate with massive efficiency, how to go about selecting the correct irrigation equipment, and how to irrigate efficiently with limited resources.
In this week’s episode of Farmers Inside Track, Borcherds details not only how farmers can ensure they run an efficient irrigation operation but he also shares tips on maintenance.
“An efficient maintenance operation is one that provides the longest possible lifespan to our system. It has procedures and equipment that is implemented to protect our irrigation system against blockages and breakages, giving us peace of mind to know our system is protected,” Borcherds can be heard explaining in this podcast episode.
He also highlights that because every farm and farmer is unique, custom irrigation systems are needed.
Borcherds shares very specific guidelines that farmers should consider in maintaining their irrigation system. And again, every system is unique and will require different maintenance procedures to optimise the irrigation system’s longevity, he explains.
According to Borcherds, there are several other factors to consider. These include the water source, its quality, and the irrigation schedule.
“Most of these guidelines can be [sourced] from the supply manufacturer or the irrigation designer. These will include guidelines for continuous, preventative and corrective maintenance.”
In the episode Borcherds also unpacks:
- The importance of having an irrigation specialist explain to you the different maintenance aspects of a possible irrigation solution;
- Vital aspects of various irrigation systems used in farming;
- The problem with not having a fixed maintenance programme, and much more.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).
Option 2: Click here listen on any Apple device.
Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast
ALSO READ: An irrigation system is an asset – take care of it
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