4.2.1.4 - What soil types can be irrigated?
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Most soils can be successfully irrigated with centre pivots. However, sprinklers should be selected to suit soil infiltration characteristics – excessive average application rates can cause runoff. See “Average Application Rates (in Step 4.2.2.3). Wheel rutting can be a serious problem on clay soils, especially when cultivated. (See Step 4.2.2.5.)
It is desirable that the pivot irrigates one soil type or soil types with similar infiltration characteristics. Soils with different irrigation requirements within one circle mean that management compromises will have to be made. If the soil type boundary is consistent with a sector of the pivot circle, the sector can be managed separately but this requires an advanced pivot control system.
Large high-energy droplets can damage the structure of a bare soil. Where this is likely, consideration should be given to the type of sprinkler chosen, and the management of the site.
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