The Challenges of Irrigation: Pivots vs Underground

🔧Pivot irrigation has the advantage of easy accessibility for repairs and coverage of most of the field, but requires frequent maintenance and is prone to rust.

⛏️Underground irrigation provides complete coverage of the field and eliminates the need to move the pivot, but is expensive to install and susceptible to damage from burrowing animals.

💰Pivot irrigation can be costly due to the need for electricity or fuel, while underground irrigation requires a water source and pump to operate.

🌽In areas not reached by the pivot, underground irrigation is crucial for watering the entire field and ensuring even growth of crops.

⚖️The choice between pivot and underground irrigation depends on factors such as cost, accessibility, maintenance, and the need for complete coverage.

Which irrigation method requires less maintenance?

—Underground irrigation requires less maintenance as there are no moving parts or tires to repair. However, regular inspections and repairs of the underground lines are needed to address any leaks or damage caused by burrowing animals.

Can both irrigation methods be used together?

—Yes, it is possible to use both pivot and underground irrigation methods together. This combination can provide comprehensive coverage of the field and address specific irrigation needs in different areas.

Which irrigation method is more cost-effective?

—The cost-effectiveness depends on various factors such as the size of the field, water source availability, electricity or fuel costs, and the need for additional equipment. A thorough cost analysis is essential to determine the most cost-effective option for a specific agricultural operation.

Are there any environmental considerations when choosing an irrigation method?

—Both pivot and underground irrigation have their environmental impacts. Pivot irrigation can result in water loss through evaporation, while underground irrigation requires the use of water pumps. The choice should consider factors such as water efficiency, energy consumption, and the environmental conditions of the region.

What are the risks of relying solely on pivot or underground irrigation?

—Relying solely on pivot irrigation can result in uneven coverage of the field and potential crop stress in areas not reached by the pivot. On the other hand, relying solely on underground irrigation can pose risks of leaks, damage from burrowing animals, and difficulty in identifying and repairing issues due to the hidden nature of the system.

00:07Introduction to the challenges of irrigation and the comparison between pivot and underground irrigation methods.

00:18Pros and cons of pivot irrigation, including easy accessibility for repairs, coverage of most of the field, frequent breakdowns, rusting, and high costs.

00:55Pros and cons of underground irrigation, including complete coverage of the field, no tire repairs, susceptibility to damage from burrowing animals, high installation costs, and the need for a water source and pump.

02:35Discussion on the water source, electricity or fuel requirements, and coverage limitations of pivot irrigation.

03:46Importance of underground irrigation in areas not reached by the pivot for even growth of crops.

05:03Considerations for choosing the most suitable irrigation method based on cost, accessibility, maintenance, and coverage requirements.

05:52FAQ: Addressing common questions regarding maintenance, combined usage, cost-effectiveness, environmental considerations, and risks of relying solely on each irrigation method.