Water Conservation

08-27-08 Impact Sprinkler Conversion Project Now Complete
A two year study has been completed to determine the potential benefits of switching from a calendar-based irrigation with impact sprinklers to irrigation on demand with micro sprinklers or drip as scheduled by soil moisture monitoring. For an indepth analysis and review of the Impact Sprinkler Conversion Project, please click here for the report. Please be aware this is a large PDF file (1.85 MB).

Conservation of water is taken seriously at Farmers Irrigation District. Our philosophy is to achieve a balance between the needs of agriculture and society as well as the natural world. We strive to reach this goal by educating our users about irrigating efficiently through knowledge of: efficiency evaluations, irrigation scheduling, application techniques, crop demand knowledge, drought tolerant plants, and actual use determination. Soil moisture sensors provide scientific data to evaluate by the needs of the soil when to add water. We refer to such tools to determine when to begin and end irrigation season, and we encourage growers to use them also. Upgrades of our system, such as converting open or leaking lines to pvc pipes realizes huge water savings, eliminating loss by seepage and evaporation. Ultimately, the entire district will be piped and pressurized; projects to this end are being completed as funds become available. Also, flow regulators installed at each point of delivery encourage users to pursue efficient irrigation practices. The sprinkler exchange program provides state-of-the-art, efficient sprinkler heads at no cost to our users.

As users implement these new technologies or, at a minimum, restore existing systems to a state of proper repair, a considerable quantity of water will be saved. Water conservation is expected to truly enhance irrigation and will provide such enticing components as rate reductions, convenience, increased crop yield, and decreased costs.

Agriculture in Hood River County is a $40 million industry and has a positive influence on the state and national economy. A carefully developed water conservation program will help to enhance agricultural economic stability.  Funding for all water conservation opportunities is being pursued.