Overflow Magazine Autumn 2022 by Irrigation Australia

Quarterly Publication of Irrigation Australia (WA Region)

NO. 68 AUTUMN 2022

IN THIS ISSUE The Peel Water Initiative

Ultrasonic tank sensors

Taking the irritation out of irrigation

Atwell Reserve Sting Nematode Trial

Water Corp effluent recycled water system

Reducing golf course water use

Sustainable water management practices

WaterSmart Farms water solutions

Contents

Keep up-to-date with irrigation in Australia, visit the IAL website at www.irrigationaustralia.com.au

Peel Water Initiative - Water Resource Assessment

Taking the irritation out of irrigation

Water Corp effluent recycled water system

Great sustainable management practices with just a li’l bit of magic20 Technology focus: Ultrasonic tank sensors

Atwell Reserve Sting Nematode Trial 2022

Reducing water use on a golf course during a heatwave

WaterSmart Farms – researching alternative farm water solutions

Mark Your Diary May 2022 10-13

Irrigation Efficiency Course - Face to Face - 8.30 AM to 4.30 PM (Balcatta, WA) - Limited places available

17-20

Meter Installation & Validation (Virtual)

Commencement: AHC32419 Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (Virtual)

for the WA Wheatbelt

June 2022

Managing the future of our soils

TBA

WA Member Event (Curtin University, Bentley, WA)

POGO the way to go for Point Walter Golf Course

Commencement: AHC32419 Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (Virtual)

14-17

Irrigation Efficiency Course - Face to Face - 8.30 AM to 4.30 PM (Ascot, WA) - Limited places available

28-30

Irrigation Pumps & Systems (Virtual)

Cover: Cottesloe Golf Club - 4th hole green and fairway (facing North East)

National Office Staff Bryan Ward - Chief Executive Officer

bryan.ward@irrigation.org.au

Geoff Harvey - National Training & Marketing Manager

geoff.harvey@irrigation.org.au

Andres Jaramillo - Training and Certification Officer

andres.jaramillo@irrigation.org.au

Marike Froneman - Accountant (part time)

marike.froneman@irrigation.org.au

Chris Delphin - Business Administration Manager

chris.delphin@irrigation.org.au

Tony Wilson - RTO Training Administrator

tony.wilson@irrigation.org.au

Kasey Barton - Training and Administration Officer

kasey.barton@irrigation.org.au

For further training information please visit: www.coie.com.au

The Overflow is the quarterly publication of Irrigation Australia (WA Region). Articles published are views expressed by the authors. IAL(WA) is not responsible for their accuracy and disclaims any liability which may arise from any person acting on the materials contained within. Editorial content does not necessarily represent the views or policy of Irrigation Australia (WA Region) Publisher/Editor: IAL WA Region, PO Box 3401 Success, WA 6964 Tel: (08) 6263 7774

WA Office Staff Tracy Martin - National Membership & Regions Manager

tracy.martin@irrigation.org.au

Rebecca New - WA Projects Officer Ph: 0458 291 643 rebecca.new@irrigation.org.au overflow@irrigation.org.au

Authorised sprinkler testing signs If you are testing an irrigation system outside of water rostering hours, as a gardening industry professional, you are not required to register for an exemption with the Water Corporation. However, to promote that you are doing authorised work and avoid a possible infringement, we recommend you have a sign clearly displayed at the front of the property. Magnetic sign: $95ea non-members or $65ea for IAL Members All signs approximately 400mm x 300mm. To download the order form please click here.

Chairman's Report

From the CEO Bryan Ward

Darryl Wylie

Welcome to the autumn edition of The Overflow. Despite the late onset of summer and receiving a healthy rainfall in October and November, many parts of Western Australia have experienced extended periods of high temperature and dry days. Our industry has been very busy ensuring irrigation systems are kept working efficiently and projects are installed to schedule.

The Irrigation Australia Conference & Exhibition, combined with the ICID 24th International Congress is now less than six months away and the program is developing very well. I doubt that there has ever been an irrigation event in Australia with such a strong program of presenters and workshops. One workshop that I believe will be very popular is the Renewable Energy Workshop particularly given our objective of net-zero by 2050 and the ever-increasing cost of energy.

There has been some real challenges for the irrigation supply

This workshop will be facilitated by leading industry renewable

chain this season. We have seen the price of shipping containers

energy champion Karin Stark. Karin is from Narrabri where she and

increase fivefold and shipping lead times increase by more than

her partner have a farm with Australia’s largest solar diesel pump.

25%. Some shipping ports are struggling to clear a backlog of vessels after lockdowns aimed at curbing new Covid-19 outbreaks. Raw material shortages and resin increases are having an effect

The Renewable Energy Workshop will include several important topics for the irrigation industry including:

on the cost of irrigation components. Recent flood damage has

• An overview of the energy transition in Australia

affected supply from the eastern states of essential items and the

• Energy storage in an irrigation scheme

war in Europe has seen a spike in fuel prices.

• Solar pumping solutions

Despite all this our economy is strong and unemployment is low.

• Ammonia production on-farm – possibilities and challenges • Future tech – what’s on the horizon for ag?

IALWA worked with the Water Corporation to promote the

• Microgrids – sharing energy between farms

Waterwise controller rebate over Summer. Waterwise irrigation

• Agrivoltaics – combining solar and farming for a dual benefit

stores and garden irrigators have sold, installed and programmed

• Electric vehicles on farm including a Biomethane tractor

a record number of weather-based Waterwise controllers. This is

• Water-Energy Nexus

quite an achievement.

The delegate registration fee enables attendance at any of the

Thanks to the Water Corporation, Waterwise garden irrigators have

Irrigation Australia & ICID workshops and presentations. Early Bird

also conducted free services to ensure residential customers have

pricing is now available at www.icid2022.com.au

water efficient irrigation systems.

Bookings continue to be made for the irrigation exhibition as

IALWA has been working with the allied industries and Josh

suppliers recognise the opportunity to present their products and

Byrne & Associates to come up with an alternative solution to the

technology to a large irrigation audience at this free to attend the

planned rebalance of Perth and Mandurah's bore water usage.

three-day exhibition. For further exhibitor information visit https://

We appreciate and value the support of the Hon. Dave Kelly, Minister for Water, and DWER as we work with them on the garden bore reforms.

www.icid2022.com.au/iace-home/exhibitors-iaec/

I am happy to report that we have resumed face-to-face training in this new world of learning to live with COVID and there is renewed

The WA Regional committee meets monthly to discuss current

interest from the irrigation sector for Cert III trade qualification

issues that affect our industry. We also plan regional events,

training as employers recognise the importance of upskilling staff

training, Waterwise initiatives and better ways to keep our

in an environment of low unemployment.

members and the wider irrigation industry informed. The Overflow subcommittee is currently reviewing approaches to increase readership and accessibility.

Our new CRM and website will soon go live on 1 May 2022 and members will soon receive communication from us on how to login to the new site and check your details. Members will notice

IALWA will be running Waterwise garden workshops at Perth

some important differences in the new system including an option

Garden Festival with the support of the Water Corporation. All

to select your communication preferences.

plans for the garden festival are to continue with the assumption that it will go ahead.

I would like to record our appreciation to Ellen Slobe who leaves Irrigation Australia in April after five years initially as the WA Projects

Thank you and I hope you enjoy reading The Overflow autumn

Officer and most recently the Overflow Coordinator. Ellen, we

edition.

have appreciated your outstanding service in this period, and

Darryl Wylie IAL (WA) Industry Chairman

we wish you well in the future. Rebecca New now assumes the full responsibilities of the WA Project Officer, which includes Waterwise administrative and production of The Overflow publication and we congratulate her on this promotion. Bryan Ward IAL Chief Executive Officer

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Regional Update By Tracy Martin, National Membership & Regions Manager & Rebecca New, WA Projects Officer

Dear Members and Industry Colleagues, Welcome to the Autumn edition of The Overflow magazine. The year is certainly moving fast, and we are beginning to see signs of Autumn, with the first rains of the season hitting us recently, after experiencing some extremely hot weather patterns in February. Member events have been put on hold since March due to Covid-19 restrictions, however, we will ensure the delivery of these popular knowledge transfer events are on offer to members as soon as is practicable. Keep an eye out for the personal invitation that will be emailed to our members with all details and registration options. IALWA has been engaged to deliver Irrigation Efficiency Courses as part of the Waterwise Council Program to registered Local Government Parks and Gardens teams. The second training session was scheduled for delivery in March, but due to Covid-19 restrictions at the time, this prevented the course going ahead and has been

postponed to 14th – 17th June. We are confident that the third training session scheduled for delivery from 10th – 13th May will go ahead as planned. This particular course is designed to provide candidates the knowledge and ability to measure irrigation delivery system performance; operate pressurised irrigation systems and troubleshoot irrigation systems in their own workplace environment. For more information, please visit: https:// www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/events/ category/wa-region-events

Irrigation Australia has been approved in Western Australia, to provide funded training for school-based students; school leavers and long and short term unemployed interested in a Traineeship in the irrigation industry. This Traineeship will provide individuals with a nationally recognised qualification in Certificate III in Irrigation Technology

Irrigation Australia hosts a number of digital platforms that attracts a broad audience from the entire supply chain of the irrigation industry including retailers, installers/contractors, landscapers, irrigation professionals, manufacturers, primary producers, students, scientists, researchers and state/local government agencies.

The Advantages of Digital Publications • • • • • •

Digital editions available to readers immediately after publishing Available to access anywhere at any time Live links to websites, emails and phone numbers from the articles or adverts Creates options to use video advertisements Precise analytics on distribution and readership Digital publications will be widely distributed electronically using all Irrigation Australia online platforms (IrrInews, Social Media, Websites, EDM’s, etc..)

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

which covers 22 units of competency and will take approximately 24 months to complete. For more information, please see page 7. The WA office has been busy organising to deliver a series of Waterwise Garden Workshops within the Perth Garden & Outdoor Living Festival in 2022 for garden enthusiasts to learn how to evaluate their existing home irrigation system; pick up Waterwise tips and tricks; understand soil plant relationships and watch live demonstrations on irrigation maintenance in the garden. Unfortunately, Nursery and Garden Industry of Western Australia have made the difficult decision at the end of March to reschedule the 2022 Perth Garden and Outdoor Living Festival. The ongoing Covid-19 Health and Safety protocols could not allow the event to proceed as planned and the Festival is provisionally scheduled to take place between Thursday 27th October to Sunday 30th October 2022. IALWA will continue to promote the Waterwise Garden Workshops and the overall Festival in the lead-up to October.

WATERWISE – AUTUMN 2022

IALWA met with Water Corporation for the quarterly stakeholder meeting on 1st March 2022 and discussed the two initiatives (Spring Sprinkler Check Up Program and Weather Smart Irrigation Rebate) available for Water Corporation customers that wanted to help save water in the garden. Both initiatives were exclusively available for customers to engage with members endorsed in the Waterwise Programs and were hugely successful. IALWA will be working with Water Corporation throughout the year to discuss future initiatives for the 2022/2023 irrigation season and we will advise members on those outcomes in due course. Water Corporation has provided total number of applications for both initiatives surpassed before the respective closing dates:

Spring Sprinkler Check Up: 2095 applications Weather Smart Irrigation Rebate: 777 applications In February the WA office met with a representative from the Bay OK Gardens, a project managed under GeoCatch, that promotes keeping Geographe Bay healthy by creating low nutrient, waterwise and biodiverse gardens. Further discussions on how to collaborate expanding the Waterwise activities in the South-West region to support both the community and industry (garden workshops, resource material, digital marketing etc) are scheduled over the coming months with the intention to deliver these from Spring.

IALWA has been working with a third-party consultant in reviewing the Waterwise Garden Irrigator and Waterwise Irrigation Design Shop programs training manuals and exams. The Waterwise Programs are self-study, endorsement programs administered by Irrigation Australia currently in Western Australia only, for irrigation contractors and landscapers servicing the domestic irrigation market. These programs support water use efficiency objectives by building on the knowledge of best practice guidelines and water use efficiency practices of those serving the irrigation industry throughout Western Australia. It is expected the updated versions will be utilised for new entrants to the programs from April 2022 and will also be distributed to existing endorsed Waterwise members as an updated resource tool.

NEW DATES ANNOUNCED WATERWISE GARDEN WORKSHOPS

28th - 29th - 30th

Oct 2022

to be held within the Perth Garden & Outdoor Living Festival Garden enthusiasts will gain an understanding of waterwise lawn care, attractive lawn alternatives, efficient irrigation and how to improve Perth’s soils. Come along to watch live demonstrations and the opportunity to ask an expert. These Workshops will be held Friday, Saturday & Sunday only commencing 11.00am. Visit the Waterwise Garden Workshop webpage on the Perth Garden & Outdoor Living Festival website to learn more & register.

Click Here

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Your guide to A WATER EFFICIENT GARDEN

WA Edition

The Waterwise Sub Committee are reviewing the associated benefits of the programs and hope to deliver more useful services and tools in the future. If you are interested to know how your business can benefit from being a Waterwise member, please visit: www.waterwiseprograms.com.au select your location and click on “Become Waterwise” or contact the WA office on 08 6263 7774. The popular “Guide to a Water Efficient Garden” digital booklet continues to be promoted online through various social media channels. We encourage members and industry to distribute this to the community.You can access a copy here. For garden enthusiasts, helpful tips and tricks are being posted weekly on the Waterwise Irrigation Programs facebook page – you can visit here.

Drought and water restrictions in many parts of Australia have shown us that water is a scarce and precious resource. Many gardeners have found to their surprise that their plants survived, even thrived, despite receiving less water due to restrictions. In other words, most gardens are regularly over-watered. Just because water restrictions permit watering at a certain time doesn’t mean you need to water. And even where there are no restrictions we should all be doing our best to conserve water. Reducing the water you give your plants will also save your time, effort and money and you will still have a healthy garden.

Rain

The Water Cycle

Transpiration

Water irrigation

Evaporation

Sprinkler Watering Run Times

Sprinkler Watering Run Sprinkler Watering RunTimes Times SprinklerSprinkler Watering Run Times Watering Run Times

Runoff Mulch

Drainage

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•

your plants could wilt and die.

35-45mm

10-15mm

10-20mm

30-40 minutes

13-16 minutes

40-60 minutes

30-40 minutes

maintained irrigation system.

Contact irrigation professional for expert advice | www.waterwiseprograms.com.au Contactyour yourlocal localWaterwise Waterwise irrigation professional for expert advice | www.waterwiseprograms.com.au *These are recommended run times for sandy soils and may Like our Facebook page “Waterwise Irrigation Programs” need to be adjusted for other soil types like clay or loam. for more tips & promotions

Topics covered: The water cycle The importance of soil Upgrade your irrigation system Installing your system

15-20mm

Seasonal adjustment settings

When to water Flow & pressure Sprinkler Watering Run Times Seasonal Adjustment Settings

Watering lawns & Adjustment’ to avoid over watering. No matter what As gardens the seasons change, so doprofessional the water needs of for your expert lawn Contact yournew local Waterwise irrigation advice | setting www.waterwiseprograms.com.au the season, your controller should always be turned off and garden. The table below shows the adjustments that Hidden leaks should be made to your irrigation controller’s ‘Seasonal Irrigation System Checklist Do you need help?

when it’s raining.

Do’s & Don’t’s Month

Seasonal adjustments

JAN-FEB

100%

MAR

80%

APR

60%

MAY

Manual operation of controller as necessary

JUN-AUG

System turned off (winter sprinkler switch-off)

SEP

Manual operation of controller as necessary

OCT

60%

NOV

80%

DEC

90%

5TH OCT TO 7 TH OCT 2022

INTERNATIONAL

CONGRESS 73rd IEC MEETING 3RD OCT - 10TH OCT 2022

ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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EARLY BIRD DELEGATE REGISTRATION

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WA Irrigation Traineeships NOW AVAILABLE AHC32419 Certificate III in Irrigation Technology Overview Irrigation Australia is excited to advise that there are now opportunities for irrigation industry businesses wanting to employ a fully funded trainee in Western Australia. This training course includes everything an employee would need to learn to design, operate and maintain irrigation systems in a wide range of professional environments, such as:

• Local government (councils) • Landscapers

• Irrigation retail outlets • Irrigation contractors

Once the trainee has successfully completed the course, they will receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification as a Qualified Irrigation Technician.

Traineeships available for • School-based students • School leavers 2021 • Long and short term unemployed

Duration 2 Years

Delivery method ✓ Virtual ✓ Face to face in our training facility ✓ Onsite Contact us today to discuss eligibility requirement on 1300 949 891 or email us at training@irrigation.org.au

Learn about the course topics here https://www.coie.com.au/course/certificate_iii_in_irrigation

Peel Water Initiative Water Resource Assessment The Peel Integrated Water Initiative (PIWI) is a program of Transform Peel - a McGowan Government $49.3 Million program of integrated, strategic projects to activate economic development and investment in the Peel Region. As featured in the January edition of Overflow, the PIWI project team implemented an extensive technical program, which assessed the water opportunities and constraints related to

the economic development objectives of the Transform Peel program. Objective 1 - Water quantity: to identify a range of technically viable water source and storage options to support the expected growth in demand from the Peel Food Zone and Peel Business Park and maintain the region’s water balance. In assessing the water available for Transform Peel, the available data was evaluated, and critical knowledge

gaps were identified. The existing data included surface and groundwater monitoring data, water quality, bore construction logs, pumping test results, water licensing and water use data and existing conceptual models.

Data acquisition:

Based on a review of previous research and available data in the investigation area, additional data was acquired to contribute to an improved understanding.

Approximate location of the groundwater subareas, Serpentine fault and groundwater monitoring network in the project area

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Additionally, analysis of the data provides new hydrogeological insights, including: •

mapping of zones with increased potential for hydraulic connection between the superficial and Leederville aquifers

•

mapping of zones with potential hydraulic connection between the Leederville Aquifer and older dipping sediments

•

identification of saline water associated with the Serpentine River

•

mapping of shallow layers with elevated electrical conductivity which are expected to provide a level of hydraulic separation between aquifers

Groundwater environmental tracer analysis

Installation of 20 electronic water level data loggers recording more high frequency measurements in existing monitoring bores enabled more accurate assessment of groundwater level response.

Airborne electromagnetic and seismic surveys

To contribute to our understanding of the regional groundwater system, a combination of airborne electromagnetic imaging and high-resolution seismic reflection imaging was undertaken and validated with conventional drill hole-based hydrogeological analysis to map the distribution of structure that influence groundwater occurrence. In February 2018, airborne electromagnetic data (AEM) was collected by SkyTEM. More than 3000line kilometres were flown by helicopter collecting 500 square kilometres of AEM data. Raw AEM data was converted to an electrical conductivity volume, from which subsurface lithology (sand, clay) and groundwater salinity was inferred, and shallow three-dimensional hydrogeological surfaces were interpreted to depths of 200 m below ground level.

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Seismic data was acquired along an 8 km east-west oriented transect perpendicular to Hopeland Road by Curtin University in May 2008. High quality seismic imaging revealed key hydrogeological boundaries and a significant fault system, 500 m wide and to depths of at least 1000 m below ground level. The north-south oriented fault system corresponds to the previously identified Serpentine Fault; however, the location is re-interpreted to be about 3 km west of the previous location and shows vertical displacement across the Warnbro Group and the older Jurassic sediments (CSIRO, 2019a). AEM and seismic data were able to separate the Peel area into distinct hydrogeological areas. To the west of the major Serpentine fault system, the top South Perth Shale is readily interpreted. To the east of the fault system, sediments, which contain the Leederville Aquifer, are closer to the surface. Below, the deeper hydrogeological structures are dipping and tend to be more complex.

An extensive environmental tracer study was undertaken using state-of-the-art environmental tracer techniques to improve the existing hydrogeological knowledge of the area and extend the conceptual modelling of deeper aquifers.

Samples were collected from 32 bores intersecting four aquifers (eight from the superficial aquifer, 13 from the Leederville Aquifer and 11 from the Cattamarra/ Yarragadee). Sampling from 40 surface water sites was undertaken to identify locations of groundwater discharge. The hydrogeochemical data was analysed to identify groundwater with similar chemical signatures. Comparisons between different tracers have enabled a thorough assessment of groundwater residence times and provide information about climatic conditions during the recharge process of the groundwater. The tracer analysis identified: •

To the east of the Serpentine fault there is a high degree of connectivity between all aquifers. The groundwater flows are predominantly vertical, connecting shallow and deeper aquifers, and allowing recharge into deeper aquifers. Abstraction from one resource has the potential to impact on the recharge in the other aquifers.

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High resolution seismic image with two red lines identifying the location of the Serpentine Fault zone

•

To the west of the Serpentine fault there is more confinement between the Superficial, Leederville, Yarragadee and Cattamarra aquifers, and groundwater flows are predominantly horizontal. There is little recharge occurring to the confined aquifer units, with estimated recharge now considered lower than current entitlements. A significant part of the recharge to the Superficial aquifer drains to surface water features rather than recharging these deeper aquifers. The Superficial aquifer fragments into many local flow systems rather than one large arrangement.

Climate and water resources

Analysis of historical climate and climate change scenarios was undertaken to inform the assessment of the potential impact of recent and future climate change on water resources within the PIWI investigation area. Climate variability (particularly of rainfall) from year to year and over a decade has a major effect on the quantity of surface water and groundwater resources in the assessment area (CSIRO 2019b). Climate change is impacting on the availability of water resources, both surface and groundwater. The research conducted by CSIRO has revealed: •

a reduction in winter rainfall by 34 per cent during the decade 2006–16

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

•

a shorter rainfall season with a delayed onset of winter rains from early June towards late July, with little noticeable change to the dry season commencement

•

a decrease in the intensity, frequency, and persistence of rain events

•

a slow but steady rise in evaporation over the past decades.

The decline in annual rainfall has resulted in significant reduction in surface runoff in some streams within the PIWI investigation area, and the Darling Scarp catchments flowing to the PIWI region. The surface water resources are becoming an increasingly unreliable source. Changes in shallow groundwater processes will impact on future water availability. It was observed that:

•

a lower proportion of rainfall is available for runoff.

The significant decline of the hydraulic heads in the deeper aquifers east of the fault zone and the limited groundwater extraction from these aquifers are indicative of the sensitivity of the groundwater resources to climate change and variability. Effective winter rainfall is projected to decline by up to 50 per cent below the long-term historical average by 2050. This will influence the prevalence of inundation. Inundation historically occurred in 70 per cent of years on about 17 per cent of the PIWI investigation area, when effective rainfall is greater than 350-400 mm. Under future climate scenarios, the frequency of inundation is projected to reduce to less than 50% and more likely to less than 20% compared to historical.

•

annual groundwater levels in the Superficial aquifer are declining

•

a higher proportion of rainfall is required to refill the aquifer during the winter season

•

there is later recovery of groundwater levels during the winter rainfall season

Assessment of the existing and newly acquired data supported the development of a more detailed characterisation of the hydrogeological setting of the region, an updated conceptual model and more robust estimation of the water balance in the PIWI Region which impact on how the resources are managed.

•

a lower proportion of rainfall is available for surface inundation, previously typical for the region during spring

Peel Integrated Water Initiative | Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (dwer. wa.gov.au)

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Taking the irritation out of irrigation Despite the summer heat, thousands of Perth households can now rest assured their irrigation is in tip-top shape. Households from Alkimos to Mandurah jumped at the opportunity to receive a free sprinkler service from a Waterwise Garden Irrigator as a part of the Waterwise Offers available to Water Corporation customers.

Developed in consultation with Irrigation Australia and Waterwise Irrigators, the offer has assisted Perth and regional customers (in selected towns) to use less water through the hot summer months. Each sprinkler service included a leak check, sprinkler repairs, testing and controller reprogramming and battery replacement (where needed if required) and tailored waterwise advice.

“I was given some great hints and tips. They took their time to make sure I understood how to make the most of my irrigation system.” On average, around 60% of household water is used outdoors during hotter months. While a lot of customers rely on irrigation to water

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

their garden, many aren’t aware if the system is working correctly, or what to do if they did find any issues.

“Apart from helping my household with the water bill, I feel like we will now be doing our part to be more waterwise as well.” Common problems customers raised during the sprinkler service were about pressure, inconsistent coverage and locating underground leaks. The informative Waterwise Garden Irrigators were able to help resolve these issues and provide self-service solutions for the future. Not only were there more than 2000 offers taken up within eight weeks, customers were also really impressed by the knowledge, care and professionalism shown by the waterwise specialists. A further benefit of the program

was promoting the services of our waterwise specialists and making sure customers know where to get expert assistance. The program is now being evaluated to see how it performed, and to put in place improvements for next year. Water Corporation is working with Irrigation Australia to design and launch this and similar programs next spring.

Looking for more ways you can save water in your home and garden or want to be a part of these programs? Water Corporation periodically provide Waterwise Offers on products and services to help you become more water efficient. Take a look at the current offers at watercorporation. com.au/waterwiseoffers and keep in touch with Irrigation Australia for ongoing tips and tricks.

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directly onto the sports field of all types. A compressor located in the pump shed located at the nearby football oval is controlled by a float level in the main storage tank. Once the water reaches the holding tanks it's split into different systems and pumped out as required.

Recipients of the treated water

Water Corp effluent recycled water system Article supplied by City of Greater Geraldton Water is a precious commodity in the Midwest and because of the harsh environment relating to high temperatures and winds during the summer periods, this then produces massive evaporation rates.

The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation along with the City of Greater Geraldton has been utilising a simple but effective method of recycling water for use on its main sporting precinct for many years now.

The City of Greater Geraldton bores are not replenishing as they once did and the salinity levels have been rising. Unless an alternative strategy were to be formed, Geraldton would have seen significant changes in its ability to maintain its sporting facilities.

Treated water from one of Geraldton’s effluent pond systems is filtered through the natural sand and into the adjoining aquafer. This then allows 5 bores producing up to 250m3 per day to be pumped back into the sports precinct holding tanks to be irrigated

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Water Corp system: • Geraldton Golf Club • Geraldton Turf Club • Geraldton Cemetery

City of Greater Geraldton system: • Geraldton Bowls Club • Towns Football Club • Little Athletics • La Familia Soccer Club

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Andrew Heinen from Geraldton Golf Club just wishes he had access to more! They have their own holding tanks which form a large part of the allocation for watering the 18-hole course. “We currently operate the recycled water at around ¾ of our total usage”. The water supplied by Water Corporation (1,440 mg/L) added to their own bore water (5,100 mg/L) has proven a great recipe for superb fairways & greens.

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David Wrensted the manager of the Geraldton Turf Club says “Our only bore on site is too salty and full of sand so approx. 96% of our water usage is recycled, we wouldn’t have a turf track without it”. City of Greater Geraldton is currently investing in 2 new 250kl tanks to bolster their storage capacity which will make them more water-efficient and more flexible in their watering schedule. The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation tests the quality of water produced a minimum of 4 times per year making sure it complies with all health and safety standards. TDS readings range from 1,498 mg/L to 2,239 mg/L, which is a vast improvement over the reading from the existing bores in the sporting area (4, 872 mg/L to 11,932 mg/L). City of Greater Geraldton irrigation leading hand, Dave Sims credits the high standard of the turf in our sporting facilities to the use of the effluent recharge system. “I wish I was able to use the other 3 systems just like this one we have in town. The flexibility it would provide would help no end” Unfortunately due to the location of the other 3 systems it is not viable to utilise these sites. Dave however indicates that they are investigating other alternatives such as harvesting stormwater and redirection of suitable resources. This will hopefully secure the long-term needs of the City of Greater Geraldton. Coupled with advanced irrigation control the City of Greater Geraldton has pushed heavily to water-saving methods and is seeing fantastic results across the board.

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

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The City of Bayswater achieved the perfect quinella for FY 20/21 having been named WA's top water saving council by the Water Corporation and receiving a perfect 100% in the Nutrient Management Scorecard. The City of Bayswater has been named WA's top water saving council by the Water Corporation, taking out the prestigious Platinum Waterwise Council of the Year title alongside the City of Cockburn. The Waterwise Council program is a joint partnership between the Water

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Corporation and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) and supports councils to improve liveability in their communities and water efficiency in their operations. The City officers worked hard to achieve Platinum status. “The awards recognise the City's commitment to its natural water systems and sustainable practice. "The City has identified opportunities to achieve maximum water efficiency and reduce water contamination.

“The actions we take mitigate climate change at a local level and protect our sensitive natural environments and waterways," the City said. As a result of the implementation of its Waterwise Bayswater Strategy, the City has already seen an improvement in the quality of stormwater entering the Swan River, having reduced excess nutrients into the Bayswater Brook system by 30%. Becoming a Platinum Waterwise Council is a further testament to the City’s commitment to saving water and reducing harm to the environment.

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The Waterwise Bayswater Strategy has delivered a number of projects this year. For example, it converted a drainage area into a micro wetland at Peters Place. The Peters Place project came in a close second from the six nominated this year for the Water Corporation's 2021 Community Choice Award. The City has also worked with local school children on Waterwise projects. For example, inspired by the City’s transformation of Peters Place, students from John Forrest Secondary College approached Council to restore the drain behind their school. They are now working with the City and the Water Corporation on plans for the project. In an additional win for the City, Bayswater Waves Aquatic Centre received an inaugural Gold Waterwise Aquatic Centre award for demonstrating best practice water management in an Aquatic Centre by running the centre in the most water efficient way possible. With the City’s commitment to the environment and being mindful of

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

natural resources, officers began to research other methods to future-proof our water supply. During their research, they became aware of trials being conducted on soil amendments to increase the hold capacity of various soil types and their ability to hold moisture along with reducing the frequency of applying fertilisers to maintain the landscape profile. After further consideration and review, it was decided to trial a locally produced product, Mineral Magic. The City commissioned a number of trials across new and established parks and has averaged between 12 and 15% water saving over the six months of the trial while achieving a much more aesthetically pleasing outcome to provide the best possible recreation experience for ratepayers. These results are in keeping with the clinical trial undertaken in a controlled environment where savings of 22% PAWC (Plant Available Water Content) were forecast following application of Mineral Magic at a depth of 50mm.

This is critical with the pending state bore licences legislation currently being reviewed through parliament with a standard 10% reduction across the board being recommended. In regards to the Nutrient Management Scorecard, each year Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Perth are surveyed on their nutrient practices by the Phosphorus Awareness Project of the Southeast Regional Centre for Urban Landcare (SERCUL). The survey is broken up into different sections including nutrient monitoring, fertiliser applications, nutrient management, nutrient education, water quality monitoring and development control. The results from the questions asked in the survey have been used to provide a Score Card for each LGA that responded and clearly show how the LGA is performing and where and how improvements can be made. The City’s amazing performance can be viewed in detail here: https:// www.sercul.org.au/wp-content/ uploads/2022/01/2021-City-ofBayswater-Scorecard-web.pdf

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Technology focus: Ultrasonic tank sensors Article supplied by City of Karratha Ultrasonic sensors work by sending out a high-frequency pulse above the range of human hearing (usually between 20 – 200kHz), which travels at the speed of sound. A transducer will send an ultrasonic sound pulse and also act as a microphone to receive the echo.

c is the speed of sound in the medium the sound is travelling through* t is the measured time it takes for the sound waves to return to the sensor

The time taken for the soundwave to return is measured and used to calculate the distance. This is then converted into a usable electronic output signal. The example in Figure 1 shows the sound waves transmitting through only one material (air). In this case, to calculate the distance between the sensor and the object intended for detection, the formula used is: D = c*t/2 Where: D is the height of the liquid to be measured

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Figure 1: “Top Down” Ultrasonic Sensor

*the speed of sound changes depending on what medium the soundwave is travelling through. When travelling through air, the speed of sound is also affected by temperature, pressure and humidity.

In a water tank scenario, nearly 100 percent of the acoustic energy in the ultrasonic wave bounces off of the air/liquid interface, due to the large difference in acoustic impedance between the air and the water.

SDS 100 irrigation controller used for controlling irrigation on oval and determining tank level % to program irrigation events

“Acoustic impedance” is a measure of the ease with which a soundwave travels through a particular medium and is measured in units called “Rayls”, calculated by multiplying the speed of sound in a material by the density of that material. Under typical conditions, air is hundreds of times less dense than liquids, leading to a large impedance mismatch between the two media and resulting in nearly 100 percent acoustic reflection.

The Grundfos pumps that irrigate Bulgarra Oval

The transmitted ultrasonic wave will spread out into a conical shape as it moves away from the transducer and it will reflect off of any solid or liquid surfaces in its path. Therefore, in many cases, the ultrasonic level sensor must be mounted far enough away from the walls of the tank to avoid interference.

Pump controls, fault panel and level indicators for the tanks

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“Top-Down” vs “Bottom-Up” Sensors

The majority of ultrasonic liquid level sensors on the market mount to the top of a tank as shown in Figure 1, sometimes known as “top-down” sensors. These are often favoured because the only medium the pulse is travelling through is air, for which the speed of sound is well known. An alternative configuration would be to mount the transducer at the bottom of the tank as shown in Figure 2 so that the sound waves travel through the liquid then reflect off the liquid/air interface. This is sometimes known as a “bottom-up” sensor. The main disadvantage of sensing this way is that sound travels at different speeds through different liquids, as mentioned above. This means that in order to make an accurate liquid level measurement, the sensor must be programmed to “know” what liquid is in the tank.

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Figure 2: “Bottom-Up” Ultrasonic Sensor

Those challenges can be overcome by including calibration and adding additional transducers to be used for fluid identification, but this almost always means expensive customisation is needed. Therefore, there are few “off the shelf” bottom-up sensors on the market.

City of Karratha

In WA, this ultrasonic sensor technology has proven valuable for the City of Karratha, who manage the distribution of 3ML of effluent recycled water from Water Corporation’s Waste Water Treatment Plant in a 1MLvolume tank located close to the Karratha Light Industrial Area. As part of a $11 million project in 2015-16, the City of Karratha’s ageing recycled water infrastructure was replaced and expanded to ensure public green spaces are watered more efficiently and with high quality treated effluent recycled water. The project incorporated the intelligent ultrasonic sensor irrigation technology, which can

respond to tank water levels, to irrigate spaces on a priority basis. As the effluent recycled water must be distributed within 24 hours, the technology will sense when tanks require filling and when they are reaching capacity andit will trigger irrigation events at various grassed sites across the City The system is supported by the SIGNAL SDS-100 controller, which features the ultrasonic sensor technology, and can adjust the valves to schedule irrigation for priority grassed sites based on the percentage of the tank filled. The very successful upgrade of the Effluent Reuse Scheme added to a variety of waterwise initiatives undertaken by the City, contributing to their recognition by Water Corporation and Department of Water & Environmental Regulation as a Waterwise Council in 2017 and again in 2019.

Information sources

https://karratha.wa.gov.au/blog/futureproofing-karratha%e2%80%99s-greenspaces https://www.smdsensors.com/ continuous-ultrasonic-liquid-levelsensor-solutions/ https://www.polytechnichub.com/ working-principle-ultrasonic-leveldetector/ https://www.brighthubengineering. com/manufacturing-technology/88692ultrasonic-level-sensors-surveyeddesign-and-selection/ https://www.controlbyweb.com/levelmonitoring/ultrasonic-sensors.html

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Atwell Reserve Sting Nematode Trial 2022 Article supplied by City of Cockburn Managed by the City of Cockburn, Atwell Reserve on Brenchley Drive in Atwell covers an area of 4.2ha. The reserve includes two sporting ovals with kikuya turf irrigated using groundwater. These ovals are mainly used for junior and senior football and cricket. A dual-use agreement exists with the adjacent Atwell College high school, which can use the reserve and ovals during school hours. In 2016 the City of Cockburn upgraded the clubrooms at Atwell Reserve and the turf adjacent to the clubrooms and sporting fields. The City monitors the turf and noticed a decline in appearance over the years in summer, regardless of the irrigation, fertiliser

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

and renovation techniques applied. Previously, the City had amended the soil using a 50/50 compost to sand mix, renovated the turf, applied a monthly fertiliser application and granular and liquid wetting agent, applied nematicide, and returfed the area with couch and kikuyu roll-on turf. A long hot summer in Perth with three weeks of temperatures above 33 degrees in February 2022 led to a further decline in the area, with subsequent investigations revealing Sting Nematode. Working with advice from Sports Turf Technology and Baileys Fertilisers, the City developed a plan to manage the turf and Sting Nematodes.

Soil samples determined the soil nutritional benchmark, and after reviewing the results, the City developed a fertiliser program including granular and liquid application using the Terracube where appropriate. Granulated Gro-sorb (wetting agent), Bentonite, Clay and Dolomite Lime were applied in February 2022, and approximately two weeks later, Sure Green Organic was applied with a Biowish coating. In early March 2022, 500g of Biowish was applied fortnightly through the Baileys Terracube and injected into the irrigation system. Biowish comes in a powder form and is a blend of four beneficial Bacillus bacteria that

Above: Atwell Reserve on 3rd February 2022 (left) and on 4th March 2022 (right).

enhance the plants' root system. Biowish works well in all kinds of soil types, conditions, and temperatures, including the cooler months when Sting Nematodes are most active.

•

Encourages and improves root development

•

Can be used with many fertilisers and herbicides.

Biowish is relatively inexpensive, with almost instant results. It is applied in numerous ways, including: •

Mixed with granular fertilisers

The biological coating contains four types of Bacillus. These beneficial microbes have several modes of action which improve plant performance:

•

Mixed with liquid nutrients

•

Through a fertigation system

•

On its own.

• •

Why is Biowish so effective?

Creates a better soil environment by reacting with the root’s fine hairs Dramatically improves the nutrient availability and uptake

Converts nitrogen and Phosphorus into a plant-available form which increases nutrient availability

•

Strengthens the root network

•

Improves plant vigour

•

Promotes higher populations of beneficial native bacteria in the soil.

Has the turf improved?

The appearance of the turf has improved through lateral regrowth and increased coverage. The City and Baileys continue to monitor the turf regularly. School carnivals and pre-season football games have been relocated and sporting groups have been asked to limit their training and pedestrian traffic to the area to allow the turf to recover. The City will use the lessons learnt from Atwell Reserve to manage Sting Nematode on other affected sporting fields in Cockburn. Fertigation injection units have already been installed at these reserves.

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Reducing water use on a golf course during a heatwave When Cottesloe Golf Club first decided to use irrigation management software to help them manage the irrigation and nutrient needs of their turf, they had no idea they were about to face the hottest summer on record in Perth. Introduction

Cottesloe Golf Club is an 18 hole golf club located in the coastal suburb of Swanbourne. The golf course covers an area of just over 60 hectares, with approximately half of that being irrigated turf, and the rest native bushland. Due to their coastal location, they are subject to strong winds, especially during the summer months when the mean afternoon wind-speed is over 26 km/h. We spoke to Cameron MacDonald, the Cottesloe Golf Club’s irrigation technician, and asked him to describe how he and the team there manage the turf needs of the golf club.

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

What challenges do you face with managing the golf course? Working within strict time frames and budgets to stay on top of everything is our biggest challenge. Throughout the year we need to manage the irrigation and nutrient needs of our turf. In addition to this, we need to schedule in course renovations, keep our machinery in good working order, and keep on top of any pest and disease outbreaks. With the irrigation, our biggest challenge is in achieving the right balance between using enough water to keep the turf healthy, while staying within our water allocation. As well as the weather, other variables we need to consider include the different types of turf in use, course topography, and the age of the turf. How did you manage irrigation scheduling this year? Identifying exactly how much water every area needs and programming accordingly takes time, and usually

we will see the negative outcomes of improper irrigation before having a chance to correct it. We required a system to specifically identify when and where we needed to adjust irrigation to prevent dry areas and to assist in managing our water allocation. We heard about SWAN Systems and were keen to use it on our golf course. Working together with SWAN Systems we mapped out the greens, fairways and tees and configured SWAN to take into account local soil type, turf type, water supply and weather. We have found the irrigation planning feature to be very useful. The 7-day projection was particularly beneficial in assisting us to plan our week, deciding on which days we could cut back on irrigation. This feature was especially helpful in that it provided a snapshot of how things would be looking going into events such as major competitions. The flexibility of the planning feature allowed us to still irrigate when it was needed.

It was a hot summer. Did you get through it in good shape? Despite having sweltered through the hottest summer on record for Perth (see Table 1.), we were able to stay nearly 12% under our water budget. This is a fantastic outcome and a very positive sign as we look to further decrease our overall water use. Some members have also passed on their appreciation to us for how well the course has held up during the significant heat. What’s next? We are looking at getting more staff members to use the system. As well as assisting us to manage our irrigation, it also has a fertiliser planning module. We believe that if we can get more of our staff using SWAN, we will be able to have a more efficient and effective record keeping system – and we will be able to continue to use our water wisely.

The Weather

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the 2021-22 summer in Greater Perth was the hottest summer on record. The mean maximum temperature in Perth was one degree higher than the previous record, and 2.5°C above the average. The Swanbourne weather station set a record of its own. On 26th December 2021, Swanbourne recorded its hottest December day – 43.7°C. This was over 15 degrees hotter than an average December day of 28.0°C – see Table 1. While no records were set in January and February, their hottest days (41.3°C for January and 39.5°C for February) far exceeded the monthly averages. Temperature (°C)

Average

Long-term (19932022)

This season (2021/2022)

% higher than average

Dec-21

28.0

29.1

3.93

Jan-22

29.8

31.1

4.36

Feb-22

30.4

31.9

4.93

Source – Bureau of Meteorology. Table 1: Temperature data for Swanbourne.

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Dr Richard George at a Tambellup desalinator

WaterSmart Farms – researching alternative farm water solutions for the WA Wheatbelt Article by DPIRD WaterSmart Farms was initiated by the State Government in response to growing industry demand to develop more climate resilient on-farm water supply options. The urgency for this work was highlighted by the number of farmers seeking assistance in the past three years and a record 12 Water Deficiency Declarations in 2020. Trends to drier conditions and greater variability in rainfall and runoff has meant that on-farm dams are no longer meeting the reliability requirements of agribusiness. System shortfalls cause periodic heavy demand on scheme water with public and private funds, and allied labour, spent carting emergency water. Exacerbating this

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

is increased demand for water through the integrated Water Corporation pipeline system distributing water from 100’s of kilometres away and utilising desalination, surface and groundwater sources. Agriculture is also changing its requirement for water. In the past decade, increased demand for higher quality water for agricultural spraying has grown with some agronomic packages requiring four to six passes across cropping programs, using up to 100 litres per hectare per pass. In parallel, while livestock (mainly sheep) numbers have fallen, demand for higher quality and reliable feedlotting and processing supplies has

increased in many areas. As farms grow and seek to value add locally, demand for fit-for purpose and secure water will increase. This is also being reflected as rural communities seek water for diversification and improve liveability. To meet the agribusiness needs, in March 2021 the Western Australian Government approved $1.5m for the WaterSmart Farms project to research new aspects of water options for onfarm needs. The focal area for the project is the Wheatbelt and Great Southern – especially those areas without, or at the margins of, the Water Corporation’s integrated water supply system (IWSS).

Muresk desalination plant

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The project has three main components: •

Understanding the adoption of existing desalinisation plants that process brackish groundwater into a suitable resource for livestock, crop agronomy and other agribusiness activities.

•

Optimising desalinisation technology and its application in the Wheatbelt and Great Southern, including assessing the technology, economics and options for the disposal of reject water.

•

Undertaking a targeted groundwater exploration program – looking deeper at the groundwater resource in fractured bedrock - and where suitable, its use for desalinisation trials.

The initial focus in year one of WaterSmart Farms project has been to analyse the adoption and performance of small on-farm desalinisation plants established to process brackish to saline groundwater.

Ferti-Ject’s Injection System helps to keep your turf in good shape! Soil Wetter's are an effective solution to combat water repellence in dry soils, making them easier to re-wet and increasing water-use efficiency. Key benefits of our advanced Ferti-Ject high pressure delivery systems include,  Precision delivery method.  Faster uptake by the plant.  Reduces turf compaction.  Reduces environmental impact.  Reduces labour inputs. Go to www.ferti-ject.com for more information. “A built for purpose injection system is simply one of the wisest investments in modern turf management”.

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Project partners Murdoch University, with support of five industry suppliers, helped engage with 47 farmers who have small Reverse Osmosis (RO units) of 5-100 kilolitres per day. Many of these units were installed in the past few years. The Inventory shows six of the units are full solar, while eight are hybrid solar and the remainder use mains power. Production efficiency varies greatly but are typically 50-50 permeate and reject water – when groundwater salinities are within the target range (3000 o 18,000 mg/L TDS). One of the key early project activities has been to encourage farmers and industry to understand and implement the Soil and Land Conservation Act’s regulatory process. This process requires farmers who install units and discharge groundwater to notify the Soil and Land Conservation Commissioner at least 90-days before commencing pumping. As part of this Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) officers work with the proponents to ensure soil conservation risks are considered.

Burra desalination unit

“In 2022 the project moves to establishing some key desalination pilot projects... The location of the sites for the pilots is still to be finalised but will target areas with established supply deficiencies and, where possible, capitalise on the groundwater exploration that has occurred in the past or is planned by the project.” The project is managed with support of an Industry Reference Group with inclusion of the major partners, GGA, WAFarmers and the desalination industry. Coordination in regional areas is supported by the Wheatbelt and Great Southern Development Commissions. The Soil Conservation Notice of Intent to Pump form to advise the Commissioner of a landholders intent to pump can be found at Notice of intent to drain or pump - Desalination complete form.pdf (agric.wa.gov.au)

the pilots is still to be finalised but will target areas with established supply deficiencies and, where possible, capitalise on the groundwater exploration that has occurred in the past or is planned by the project.

To develop new management systems for reject water, the WaterSmart Farms team and four farmers, partnered to drill disposal bores to take the reject water from the RO plants. Across sites with a range of geologic and water quality conditions, monitoring to date shows reject waters have been able to be fed into the weathered granites, with good initial results.

In 2022 the project also plans to look at surface water resources. This work will capitalise on Machine Learning recently commenced by DPIRD that shows the location of 200,000 farm dams, and in many areas, the absence of improved capture and storage systems.

In 2022 the project moves to establishing some key desalination pilot projects. These trials will use technology optimised to differing site conditions, will value add systems application knowledge and demonstrate other water management options. The location of the sites for

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

WaterSmart Farms project builds on work over the past four decades by DPIRD, Water Corporation, Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and the geological group in the Department of Mines, Industry Resources and Safety (DMIRS). It depends on new partnerships established with key research providers at Murdoch, Curtin, and The University of WA.

Developing new aspects of the project and networking with the water industry is a goal for the project –we welcome ideas and opportunities.

More Information / Contact

Dr Richard George Senior Principal Research Scientist – Water Science Richard.George@dpird.wa.gov.au 0404 819 532 Link: WaterSmart Farms project.

Background

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/watermanagement/watersmart-farms%E2%80%93-researching-farmdesalination-western-australia

Regulation

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/soilsalinity/groundwater-desalination-andregulation-farm-water-supply-westernaustralia

Easy Lok

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PHI1103 04/22

Managing the future of our soils Last year Australia released its first national policy on soil - “The National Soil Strategy”. It sets out how Australia will value, manage and improve its soil for the next 20 years. This national undertaking to manage this valuable and finite resource supports the critical importance of soil structure for the future of our environment and its biodiversity, human health, the economy, food security and the tackling of climate change. The strategy clearly outlines that healthy soils will improve the resilience of Australian communities and farm businesses to natural disasters (particularly drought);

Why is soil structure important?

Soil is the basis for human life – the future of our environment, economy, food, infrastructure, health, biodiversities and communities are all dependent on it. Some key functions of a healthy soil: • • • •

Provides a necessary environment for plant growth - including food crops and timber wood Filters and cleans our water and helps prevent natural hazards such as flooding Carbon storage to help mitigate climate change Contains large levels of biodiversity - essential to both the environment

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•

and to agricultural industries Human nutrition (soil provides nutrients to plants and animals which are then transferred to humans once consumed)

Soil health is a priority

Maintaining heathy soil is clearly important and we can all make difference with some simple practices : Compost and microbial activity – Compost aids the production of microbes in the soil and can greatly improve its overall health and structure. If it’s a healthy soil, the microbes will do their job and break down the organic matter to create a richer, nutritious environment for plant growth. Poor soils will benefit from the compost boost and assist in regeneration. Cover crops/native revegetation – plants, be it a cover crop for large scale farming or creating a garden where there was none, will slow soil erosion by reducing the damage rain causes as it reaches the ground. This helps retain our precious topsoil, which contains all the nutrients we so dearly need to keep our plants happy, and to keep it from running off into our rivers, lakes and oceans. Cover cropping or planting ground-covering plants builds the fertility in the soil by adding carbon and nutrients, increasing porosity with plant-root growth, thereby encouraging water and oxygen penetration.

No till/no dig gardens are quickly becoming popular among home gardeners and small landholders and is an important part of Regenerative Agriculture. This method of gardening keeps soil structure complete, which in turn holds the air porosity, water penetration and helps prevent soil compaction (when soil particles are pressed together, resulting in reduced rate of both water infiltration and drainage). As soil health improves, less additions are required from the gardener/farmer to produce more from the same area. All the while, this creates a soil that is more resilient to extreme weather and decreasing pest and disease attack. Mulch – It could be almost anything, such as leaves, wood chips or arborists clippings; alternatively use something a bit more ready-to-apply such as the products we can get from a landscape yard. Whatever you use, it will always be better than having bare soil. The more varied the mulch the more variety of nutrients will enter your soil. It is actually quite important to regularly change the types of mulch we use to encourage all kinds of bacteria to thrive in our garden and landscapes. These 4 simple practices together will help in building us a better future. Better soil will enable the earth to sustain us, and we can leave this place we call home in a better state than when we arrived.

• • •

POGO the way to go for Point Walter Golf Course The Council of Melville-owned Point Walter Golf Course is located in Bicton, approximately 10km south-west of the Perth CBD. Nestled alongside Perth’s Swan River with sweeping views and spectacular scenery, the 9-hole golf course is highly regarded for its quality fairways, greens and picturesque landscape. The course covers 2,605m and consists of six par 4s, two par 3s and a par 5.

Course Superintendent, James Dwyer says “the more information you have about water movement through your soil profile, the better you can manage your turf and water allocation. The POGO system allows us to record and store site-specific information per hole, each green can be monitored on a regular basis and even remotely for better water management of turf, particularly in the peak of Summer”.

The Point Walter Golf Course has had the POGO system in use since July 2020 to assist grounds staff keep the turf in tiptop shape. Turf quality was previously monitored through leaf tissue and soil testing, as well as visual assessment. Fixed precision soil moisture sensors were previously also used on the greens, providing limited data.

“This system has been a great help to how we manage our water. It allows us to be able to regularly see exactly what the moisture content is across all our greens, and it displays it in a very easy to see format.”

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It features a world-renowned and patented scientific turf-measuring

probe that allows managers to see exactly what their turf is “feeling”. It is a portable, wireless and easy-touse tool that collects precise data including moisture, salinity, and soil temperature. It includes 3 main components: 1. The “POGO Pro +” is the instrument used to take readings. Random, regular sampling is the key to managing soil moisture accurately. 2. The POGO Smartphone app connects the POGO Pro + to the app and collects all the data and then send to the Pogo Turf Pro cloud.

3. The POGO Turf Pro Cloud then analyses the data and displays it in an easy-to-see visual display either on your phone or your PC. All the data is stored for future analyses and can be compared to older data to discover trends or improvements that can be made. There is an ongoing annual fee for software access. The foundation of the POGO system is a unique and patented soil sensor called HydraProbe ™ which uses a measurement method called “Coaxial Impedance Dielectric Reflectometry”. The principles of this method are based on research from prestigious USA college; Dartmouth’s Physics Department. The term “coaxial” refers to a metal tined waveguide that is inserted into the soil, that sends and receives a radio

frequency at 50MHz. “Impedance” refers to the intensity of the reflected signal, and “dielectric reflectometer” refers to the reflected signal used to measure the dielectric (a substance or medium that can sustain a static electric field within it). An oscillator within the probe generates a 50 MHz electromagnetic signal, that is transmitted through the metal tines of the sensor into the soil. A microprocessor within the probe conducts complex mathematical calculations to accurately determine the “dielectric permittivity”; the energy storage and energy losses across the soil area. Unlike other common types of soil sensors, like TDR and capacitance sensors, this unique probe is not impacted by salinity, soil composition or electrical conductivity and does not require calibration. In addition to providing consistent and accurate data on the soil, the POGO system also includes a mapping feature for irrigation lines. It is a valuable feature because of its simplicity, accuracy and practicality for turf management applications. Jeff Lane, turf consultant Living Turf (Australian distributor) says “When we think of why we need maps 99% of the time on a golf course… it is generally years after the installation, and nobody remembers where things are”. As years go by and there are changes in superintendents and staff, locating irrigation lines and valves can become difficult using conventional, printed maps. Even “As Constructed” maps can be very inaccurate and difficult to follow. POGO offers an easy and accurate way to create a digital map, and store it for posterity. Jeff says, “The mapping feature can create and store thousands of assets such as irrigation lines, valves sprinkler heads etc, and display them as they were created using its GPS technology. A new product only just released, is the POGO mapper that simply clips onto your waist so there is no need to even carry the instrument”.

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As an ongoing turf management system, it features a platform that automatically analyses data and presents it to Point Walter staff visually with every upload from a smartphone app. The course superintendent can see variations of moisture, salinity, temperature, ball speed, firmness and more across every zone of the golf course and adjust irrigation scheduling accordingly. James says “ The POGO system has assisted us by providing accurate soil moisture data on a regular basis which enables us to not only finetune our irrigation needs to save water, but also improve turf quality.” “Manual watering can be conducted when and where the turf needs it, rather than gut instinct or by visual appearance only. The instrument is a manual device so you can use it on all sections of the golf course turf, which is advantageous over fixed soil moisture sensors that report limited information to give us a better soil profile picture across greens, tees and fairways.“ Information Sources:

https://pogoturfpro.com/

https://online.flippingbook.com/ view/225830/22/

https://stevenswater.com/products/ hydraprobe/

https://livingturf.com.au/map-your-irrigationwith-pogo-2/ https://pointwaltergolf.com.au/

Click below to watch the video: Point Walter Golf Course overview

The Overflow | Autumn 2022

Water Update Water Usage Metro Region

https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/Rainfalland-dams/Water-use

Yearly Streamflow https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/Rainfalland-dams/Streamflow

Perth Rainfall Comparison https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Our-water/Rainfalland-dams/Rainfall

Supplied by the Water Corporation Current graphs can be found at www.watercorporation.com.au

HAVE YOU VISITED THE WA WATERWISE PROGRAMS WEBSITE? www.waterwiseprograms.com.au

The Waterwise Garden Irrigator Program is a joint initiative of the WA Region of Irrigation Australia and Water Corporation, with a goal of optimising water-use efficiency of domestic irrigation systems in Western Australia. Endorsed Waterwise Garden Irrigators are fully trained in water efficient practices and can design, install, repair and maintain home garden irrigation systems.

WATERWISE GARDEN IRRIGATORS AAA Irrigation

Horizon West Landscape & Irrigation

Rapid Reticulation Remedies

Adonis Gardening & Irrigation

Instant Gardens

Repair Your Retic

Advantage Bores & Reticulation Services

Irriscape Reticulation & Landscaping

Retic Doctor

Alessio’s Gardens

Jim's Mowing Wilson North

Retic Express

Allwest Bores & Reticulation

Joel Irrigation & Landscaping

Retic Mate

Aqueduct Irrigation Services

Landscape Australia Construction

Reticulation Pro

AR Landscapes

Kinetic Landscaping

Robert Reynolds

NEW

Ben’s Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

KRH Irrigation

Rob’s Retic and Lawn

NEW

Landscape Elements Pty Ltd

Beyond Reticulation BHG Garden Service

NEW

LD TOTAL Living Eden Property Maintenance

Bowie Irrigation

Luke's Landscaping Co

Bradkaz Irrigation

Softscapes & Reticulation Pty Ltd Sprinkler Fixers

Lime Gardens

2020/2 1

Bolesta's Backyard Creations

Ryan Daly

Superior Landscaping & Reticulation The Garden Fixer

Meticulous Maintenance Services

The Greenscape Collective

Midwest Turf Supplies

The Retic Company

Mr Retic

The Retic Guy

Newground Water Services

The Retic & Landscape Shop

Northend Reticulation & Turf

The Watershed Water Systems Midland

Nutrien Water – Head Office

Think Water Dunsborough

Oasis Reticulation

Think Water Geraldton

Olive Branch Landscapes

Think Water Perth

One Two Tree Irrigation & Landscaping

Tidy Gardens Australia

Outdoor Garden Services

TLC Services Perth

OZ Commercial Maintenance Services

Top Dog Landscaping and Reticulation

Donewell Contracting

PC Landscaping

Ultimate Blue Pty Ltd

Dynamic Property Solutions

Peel Scape Solutions

Urban Reticulation

Earlybird Landscaping

Perdita Reticulation & Garden Solutions

VIP Home Services

Earth & Water Pty Ltd

Perfect Home Solutions

Wanda’s Gardening & Landscaping

Ecoedge Retic Supplies

Perth Irrigators

WaterLink

Evergrow Gardenscapes

Perth Lawns and Retic

Water Smart Services Pty Ltd

Fastlane Maintenance

Pimp My Yard

Water Well Reticulation

First Element Irrigation

Plantech Grounds Maintenance

Waterwise Landscaping

Fluid Irrigation

Portworks

Westcoast Reticulation Services

FPM Landscapes Pty Ltd

Pretty Blooming Good

Western Irrigation

Garden Solutions

PTC Irrigation

Wet Frog Retic

Greenworx

Pumps N Pipes Supplies

Groundskeeper Garden Services

Purely Irrigation

Wild Earth Landscapes

Growing Assets

Rain Maker Irrigation Services

Yurra Pty Ltd

HomeCare Reticulation

Rapid Retic

Zimban Reticulation

Brighton Reticulation Brookwell Irrigation Candid Reticulation Services CHATT Services Chuckacan Civic Reticulation Clackline Reticulation Coast to Coast Irrigation Condo Landscapes Pty Ltd Country Landscaping & Irrigation CS Reticulation

NEW

2020/2 1

NEW

2020/2 1

NEW

Turfed Out

2020/2 1

WF Landscape Industries Pty Ltd

The website features an extensive and up-todate business directory where the community can search for their local Waterwise members, based on their location. Head to the search directory at www.waterwiseprograms.com.au for members’ contact details, or if you’d like information on how to become an endorsed Waterwise business. With an increasing number of DIY enthusiasts installing and maintaining their own irrigation systems, the Waterwise Irrigation Design Shop Program was developed to raise the standard of irrigation advice and design services offered by staff at counter level of specialist irrigation retailers. Endorsed staff have the knowledge and skills to provide their customers with waterwise advice, products and services.

2020/2 1 Several Waterwise Garden Irrigators and Design Shops were randomly selected for audit in the 2020/21 period. Successfully audited businesses are acknowledged with this customised logo.

WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOPS Addwater Reticulation - Maddington

Nutrien Water - Neerabup

Controlled Irrigation Supplies - Joondalup

Nutrien Water - Osborne Park

Joel Irrigation & LHP Landscaping

Nutrien Water - Rockingham

Nutrien Water - Balcatta

Peel H20 Solutions - Mandurah

Nutrien Water - Bibra Lake

2020/2 1

Nutrien Water - Byford Nutrien Water - Canning Vale Nutrien Water - Greenwood Nutrien Water - Joondalup Nutrien Water - Malaga Nutrien Water - Mandurah Nutrien Water - Midvale Nutrien Water - Myaree

The Watershed Water Systems Cockburn

NEW

The Watershed Water Systems - Midland The Watershed Water Systems - Morley The Watershed Water Systems - Subiaco

Pumps ‘n Pipes - Mandurah 2020/2 1

Rainscape Waterwise Solutions - Bibra Lake

Think Water Broome Think Water Dunsborough

Reece Irrigation & Pools - Belmont

Think Water Geraldton

Reece Irrigation - Canning Vale

Think Water Perth

2020/2 1

Reece Irrigation - Malaga

WA Reticulation Supplies - Armadale

Reece Irrigation - Osborne Park

WA Reticulation Supplies - Midland

Reece Irrigation - Rockingham

Western Irrigation - Greenwood

The Retic & Landscape Shop - Southern River

2020/2 1

SOUTH WEST WATERWISE PROGRAMS Irrigation Australia has recently launched the Waterwise Irrigation Programs in the South West region of WA, with the support of local water utilities; Busselton Water and Aqwest.

WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOPS

WATERWISE GARDEN IRRIGATORS ARB Landscaping & Fencing

Nutrien Water - Busselton

Country Water Solutions – Bunbury

Country Landscaping & Irrigation

PC Landscaping

Nutrien Water – Bunbury

Fastlane Maintenance

Russell’s Retic

Nutrien Water – Busselton

Fergies Total Lawn Care

Verve Landscapes

LD TOTAL

Zimban Reticulation

The Overflow | Autumn 2022