Quarterly Publication of Irrigation Australia (WA Region)
NO. 60 AUTUMN 2020
IN THIS ISSUE Improving the licensing experience at DWER
TAP Pilbara aerial study
Improving irrigation practices in the West Gingin and
2 minutes a day in nature: Benefits of being in the garden
North Wanneroo areas
Changing seasons means changing irrigation settings
How does your system perform?
How to maximise the lifecycle cost of your pump
Piping the Collie River Irrigation District
Perth’s WSC transition studied in- Texas The Overflow Autumn 2020
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Contents Improving the licensing experience at DWER
6
Improving irrigation practices in the West Gingin and North Wanneroo areas
8
How does your system perform?
12
Piping the Collie River Irrigation District
14
2 minutes a day in nature: Benefits of being in the garden
16
Changing seasons means changing irrigation settings
19
TAP Pilbara aerial study
20
How to maximise the lifecycle cost of your pump
22
Perth’s WSC transition studied in Texas
24
Keep up-to-date with irrigation in Australia, visit the IAL website at www.irrigationaustralia.com.au
Mark Your Diary Irrigation Australia’s range of nationally accredited courses and qualifications are designed to provide you with the right skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the irrigation industry. All sessions are delivered over half days and accessible from the convenience of your own office/home no matter your location.
May 12-14 Certified Meter Installer & Validator
Cover: Measuring the flow rate of a drip emitter. See article page 12
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 61, Victoria Park, WA 6979 Tel (08) 9368 3136
June 2 - 4 Urban Irrigation Design 11-12 Commercial Irrigation Design 24-26 Certified Meter Installer & Validator July 1 - 2 Basics in Wiring & Electrical Troubleshooting 22-24 Irrigation Efficiency 28-29 Irrigation Pumps & Systems For further information please visit: www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/training/training
Authorised sprinkler testing signs If you are testing a 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 authorized work and avoid a possible infringement, you might like to have a sign clearly displayed at the front of the property. These signs are available from the IAL (WA). Now available in: Corflute ($20) special reduced price and Magnetic ($75) GST Exclusive. All signs approximately 400mm x 300mm. To download the order form please click here.
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The Overflow - Autumn 2020
From the CEO Bryan Ward
Dear Members, There is no doubt that the past few weeks have been some of the toughest Irrigation Australia has faced from a business and social point of view however these challenges are insignificant when compared to the heartbreaking loss of life caused by this wretched virus in almost every country. Our staff are working from home and we are faced with multiple challenges on many fronts, however I have been heartened by the positive attitude that our staff and partners have taken to working towards a reconfiguration of our business to cope with this pandemic. Frustratingly we are not able to predict when the restrictions on business and society will be relaxed and this makes it incredibly hard to forward plan with any certainty and this is particularly relevant with the current budgeting process. Matters that were not on our agenda a few weeks ago like moving our training, where possible, to online training platforms and the conversion of our publications the Journal and Overflow to digital
formats have now occurred. The fact that you are reading this edition of the Overflow electronically is evidence of this successful transition. As an organisation we are very mindful that many of our members are experiencing far greater problems than us and our thoughts are with them also. We have modified our corporate membership payment criteria to allow for quarterly payments if required and we encourage any members who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of the virus, to contact us if they wish to maintain their membership. I indicated to staff at the outset of this pandemic that we couldn’t guarantee jobs and incomes but that we would fight and do all we can to maintain a level of business activity that enables us to deliver an acceptable outcome for board and members. The assistance provided by the Federal Government has been most welcome and provides a degree of security for the next six months, but our future will depend on us being able to keep rapidly adapting to changing circumstances by adopting
National Contacts Bryan Ward - Chief Executive Officer Geoff Harvey - National Training & Marketing Manager Marike Froneman - Accountant (part time) Andres Jaramillo - Training and Certification Officer Chris Delphin - Business Administration Manager Kahla McKinless - Training & Certification Assistant Tracy Martin-National Membership & Regions Manager
new business strategies. A decision was made to postpone our conference to July 2021 and everyone involved in this event since 2016, including Encanta, our Perth based event managers, were very disappointed with this outcome, however we were fortunate to secure alternative dates in July next year and the work will continue on in earnest around Sep/Oct this year. Moving forward, we know there is still a need for our association to deliver value for our members and we will continue to rely on the ongoing support of our members, staff and partners to get through these uncertain times and provide value for members and the irrigation industry. These are challenging times however as an organisation we look forward to better times ahead and some positive announcements in due course. Finally and most importantly we are still open for business and ready to help you with any irrigation related matters that arise. Stay safe! Bryan Ward
WA Contacts bryan.ward@irrigation.org.au geoff.harvey@irrigation.org.au marike.froneman@irrigation.org.au andres.jaramillo@irrigation.org.au chris.delphin@irrigation.org.au kahla.mckinless@irrigation.org.au tracy.martin@irrigation.org.au
Rebecca New – IALWA Administration Support (08) 9368 3136 email: adminsupport@irrigation.org.au Ellen Slobe – IAL WA Projects Officer (08) 9368 3136 Mobile: 0458 291 643 email: ellen.slobe@irrigation.org.au
The Overflow - Autumn 2020
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Regional Update Tracy Martin - National Membership & Regions Manager and Ellen Slobe - WA Projects Officer
Dear Members, Industry Colleagues and Interested Parties, Welcome to this Autumn issue of our WA publication. As you have already read, our publication will only be produced digitally from now on, but this opens the door for a much wider readership and we welcome the opportunity to enlighten not only those working within the industry, but those interested parties who have an interest in horticulture all the way down to the home gardener. Many of you may not have been aware that this magazine has been produced by Irrigation Australia (WA Region) since the 1990’s and hard copies were available for free from select irrigation retail stores over the past 10+ years. With a few additional features that only digital can provide, we trust you will embrace this new format and enjoy the read.
assist you in your current or future irrigation works. You will still have the opportunity to engage with presenters and ask your questions via “Send Enquiry” links.
Training
Our training courses that were scheduled for delivery throughout 2020 will now be delivered in a virtual format which can be attended from the comfort of your own home or office. See page 7 for more information on the courses scheduled for delivery in our virtual classrooms this year. Several of these virtual classes have already commenced with great success and positive feedback. The first test case for the virtual classroom was the recent Pumps course originally scheduled to commence in Perth on 31st March. It was great to see industry dial in from across Perth, and even Esperance.
With the current social distancing regulations in place our very popular member events have been cancelled for now and we are working on delivering these to you and the wider community through video. We hope to have our first event completed in this new format by the end of the month. These events will still provide knowledge transfer, CPD points and qualification for Waterwise re-endorsement (if applicable) to our members. We will continue to promote these events in the usual manner via email and ask you to register through the event registration platform on our website. Whilst this new approach won’t provide networking opportunities in the traditional sense, they will provide knowledge transfer and promotion of products that will
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Waterwise
Reports from across industry indicate that there has been some slowdown in the domestic market, possibly contributed by the cooling weather as well as the economic challenges facing the WA community during this crisis. Whilst residents are being urged to stay at home, it is hoped that people will find comfort in their gardens. Nurseries are experiencing unprecedented sales, particularly on edible plants, so we will continue to promote Waterwise irrigation specialists to the community to assist them in maintaining a healthy garden. The Water Corporation’s Weather Smart Irrigation Rebate continues despite the current crisis and is available for Perth members to promote to their customers as much as possible. In lieu of smart controllers adjusting watering times, the Water Corporation are reminding
Be Wise... Choose Waterwise all members to also promote seasonal adjustments to the community in an effort to save precious water. With so much handwashing happening in the home now, there is greater opportunity for water savings in the garden!
Waterwise Programs in the South West
The Waterwise Programs’ move to the South West has progressed. We have now welcomed two South
West businesses to the Waterwise Program “family”: ARB Landscaping & Fencing (WGIP) and Total Eden – Busselton (WGIP & WIDS). We look forward to promoting these Busselton businesses and the additional individuals who are still undertaking study and assessments at a future community launch. Unfortunately, the Bunbury industry launch scheduled in March was
another cancelled event in March, however, the marketing team at Irrigation Australia have been working hard to create an introductory video to explain both Waterwise Programs to any interested parties. These have already been promoted to industry in the Bunbury region, and will be uploaded for viewing into the “Become Waterwise” section of at www.waterwiseprograms.com.au – South West pages.
AAP SYDNEY info.nsw@aapindustries.com.au AAP BRISBANE info.sqld@aapindustries.com.au AAP MELBOURNE info.vic@aapindustries.com.au AAP ADELAIDE info.sa@aapindustries.com.au AAP PERTH info.wa@aapindustries.com.au
S U P E R I O R A P P L I C AT I O N F L O W GAS
GENERAL PURPOSE
DZR
AAP TOWNSVILLE info.nqld@aapindustries.com.au
www.aapindustries.com.au
Improving the licensing experience at DWER The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) have published new procedure documents to guide licensing and permit applications for water, industry and native vegetation clearing.
a more efficient engagement with regulatory stakeholders.”
Three new procedure documents detail the processes undertaken by the department to assess and manage licences and permits across these areas.
As part of this project, DWER has also published a new Policy Framework page to detail the different types of documents under the department’s new Policy Framework.
Although there are no major changes to licensing conditions, there are improvements to procedures and processes. “We are hoping that this makes it easier for our regulated stakeholders to do business with us,” Senior Manager Better Regulatory Practice Kerrin Cox said. “The new procedures support DWER’s One Stop Shop service delivery by connecting our regulatory functions and areas and where possible aligning our regulatory approaches to deliver
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The new procedures are now available through an improved One Stop Shop webpage.
“A new Regulatory documents page was created to list the department’s documents that relate to industry regulation, native vegetation clearing and water licensing regulation,” Kerrin said. “We have also provided some explanations and graphics showing how each of those documents fit into the department’s Policy Framework.” DWER briefed members of its Regulatory Services Stakeholder Reference group prior to publication.
The Overflow - Autumn 2020
“We have been listening to our regulatory stakeholders and considering how we can improve their engagement experience,” Kerrin said. “This includes improvements to online information organisation and availability. “We hope that this establishes what DWER expects from applicants before, during, and after assessment and what applicants can in turn expect from DWER in regard to public consultation, timeframes, etc.” The documents, Procedure: Water licences and permits, Procedure: Prescribed premises works approvals and licences, Procedure: Native vegetation clearing permits, are in the procedure sections of the Regulatory documents table on the One Stop Shop webpage. https://dwer.wa.gov.au/regulatorydocuments
Build On Your Professional Development Irrigation Australia’s range of nationally accredited courses and qualifications are designed to provide you with the right skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the irrigation industry
Take a look at the topics being delivered over the coming months All sessions are delivered over half days and accessible from the convenience of your own office/home no matter your location
Join Our Online Training Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (Trade level) Duration: 18-24 Months | Mode: F2F & Virtual Learning
This qualification reflects the skills and knowledge required to become an irrigation installer, operator, retailer or technician for residential, commercial or agriculture industries. Our courses provide an in-depth irrigation training program which is assessed against nationally recognised Competencies towards Certificate III in Irrigation Technology AHC32419 (Trade Level). The program also engages subject matter experts for specialised topics such as hydraulics, troubleshooting and basic irrigation design, to name a few.
Plan your training for the months ahead!
Click on course name to view more information on website
MAY 12/05/20 - 14/05/20
Certified Meter Installer & Validator
JUNE 02/06/20 - 04/06/20
Urban Irrigation Design
11/06/20 - 12/06/20
Commercial Irrigation Design
Duration: 12-18 Months | Mode: F2F & Virtual Learning
24/06/20 - 26/06/20
Certified Meter Installer & Validator
This qualification reflects the technical and supervisory skills and knowledge required to operate as supervisors and specialists within the irrigation industry. It applies to irrigation installation site managers and managers of irrigation systems in the irrigation servicing, horticulture and agriculture industries.
JULY
Certificate IV in Irrigation Management
Blended Learning
01/07/20 - 02/07/20
Basics in Wiring & Electrical Troubleshooting
22/07/20 - 24/07/20
Irrigation Efficiency
28/07/20 - 29/07/20
Irrigation Pumps & Systems
Practical Approach
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11/58 Metroplex Avenue, Murarrie Qld 4172 | 1300 949 891 | kahla.mckinless@irrigation.org.au | irrigationaustralia.com.au
IMPROVING IRRIGATION PRACTICES in the West Gingin and North Wanneroo areas
By Neil Lantzke
In 2018 the National Landcare Program, through its Smart Farms Small Grants program with the City of Wanneroo, funded Perth NRM to work with a range of irrigators in the North Wanneroo and West Gingin areas to improve water use efficiency. The irrigators involved were: • Eight fruit growers (avocado, mango and citrus) • Four turf farmers • One local government authority (City of Wanneroo) The uniformity of the irrigation system was measured and soil moisture sensors were installed on each of the properties. The project officer worked with the growers to help them use soil moisture and the evapotranspiration (ETo) data to more accurately schedule irrigation.
Fruit growers
Surveys of water use by irrigators on the sandy soils of the Swan Coastal Plain have shown that many can improve their irrigation practices. Soil water monitoring is a tool that can assist fruit growers to decide when to irrigate and how much water to apply. Adoption of soil water monitoring by fruit growers on the sands of the Swan Coastal Plain in Western Australia has not been widespread. The aims of this component of the project were to: • Determine if soil water monitoring is a useful tool that fruit growers will adopt
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• Document the limitations of different soil water monitoring equipment on coarse sands • Define critical soil water levels or ‘refill points’ for different fruit species on coarse sands Capacitance probes and tensiometers were installed adjacent to each other on the eight properties. The equipment was connected to loggers and the growers could view the soil water graphs via the internet. An irrigation agronomist assisted growers with the installation of the sensors and interpretation of the soil water graphs. It was found that tensiometers are better suited than capacitance probes in determining refill points in the coarse sands. Tensiometer readings plummet as the soil dries which makes it easier to determine the refill point, while soil moisture decreases slowly as the soil dries out making it more difficult to determine the refill point when using capacitance probes. The capacitance probes were however a more robust piece of equipment that required little or no maintenance. If the soil was allowed to dry out (approximately >40 kPa) this caused air to enter the tensiometers which affected the readings. This required the grower to manually remove the air bubbles from the tensiometer body. The tensiometers functioned well when the soil was kept at the desirable water content.
The Overflow - Autumn 2020
A document titled ‘Using soil water sensors to schedule irrigation of fruit trees on sandy soils’ was written (available to download at https://drive. google.com/uc?export=download&id= 15bOKhH0HrM5O6pFxeQXZiedwjfY NZIyk ). The sandy soils of the Swan Coastal Plain have a very low water holding capacity and the irrigation management is quite different to that on sandy soils that are used elsewhere for horticulture. This document contains guidelines for the installation of soil moisture sensors on sands, information on how to interpret the results and discussion on the benefits and limitations of different soil water monitoring equipment. Guidelines for soil water monitoring and critical soil tensions at which irrigation should be applied are presented for citrus, mangoes and avocados when grown on these coarse sands. The study showed that in some cases growers were applying excessive amounts of water while in other cases growers were under irrigating. Prior to using soil water sensors most growers were not adequately adjusting their irrigation to account for days with significantly higher or lower evapotranspiration. Most of the growers did not have a documented irrigation plan that was based on long term climatic data and crop factors. Over the first six months of the project the growers gained a better understanding of how to interpret trends in the data and the benefits and
Figure 1. Tensiometers with pressure transducers that are connected to a logger
Figure 2. Soil moisture graph showing a period of over watering
limitations of soil water sensing. The majority of the growers involved in the study now view the soil water data regularly and use the information to help schedule their irrigations. The overall response to the study has been positive and some of the growers have bought additional soil water sensors and installed them in other irrigation blocks.
Assessment of irrigation at Kingsway Reserve in the City of Wanneroo
Perth NRM worked with the City of Wanneroo over the 2019/20 irrigation season to improve the efficiency of irrigation on the football oval at the Kingsway Sporting Complex.
Watering at Kingsway Sporting Complex is based on evapotranspiration (ET) from an onsite weather station. The daily ET at 6 pm is used to automatically update nightly runtimes on individual stations. Active sports fields are irrigated at 70% of daily ET. Each station is evaluated on a daily basis by staff and manual adjustments can be made to the run times if required. This approach has enabled the City of Wanneroo to accurately apply irrigation based on the climatic conditions. The uniformity of the sprinkler irrigation at two sites on the oval was
measured by using a grid of catch cans. Figure 3 shows the results from one of the sites. The black cylinders show the location of the sprinklers (Hunter I25, blue nozzles, at 16.5 m x 16. 5 m spacing and 400 kPa nozzle pressure). A moderate easterly wind (11 km/ hour) was present during the test, which in Figure 3 is coming from the top of the page. The distribution uniformity of the irrigation pattern was 70% which is below acceptable standards. The application rate was low in the area immediately downwind of each sprinkler (see Figure 3).
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Figure 3. Application uniformity of the sprinklers in a section of Kingsway Oval.
Six sets of soil moisture sensors were installed below the turf to determine the accuracy of the sensors and to assess the usefulness of the equipment in assisting with scheduling of irrigation events. The equipment accurately measured soil moisture. The biggest limitation to using soil moisture sensors to assist with irrigation scheduling was the poor application uniformity of the irrigation. The sensors showed that the soil moisture below much of the sprinkler wetting pattern was above the critical moisture content indicating that the irrigation could have been reduced.
However, within 10 metres of the sensors, in the locations where the sprinkler application rate was lower, the soil was dry and the condition of the turf was poor. In an attempt to improve the sprinkler uniformity, the sprinkler nozzles and operating pressure were altered and the uniformity was re-tested. These changes made only slight improvements to the uniformity of the irrigation. A large percentage of the sports turf in the Perth Metropolitan area shows dry patches in the summer months as a result of poor irrigation uniformity.
This poor uniformity is exacerbated under windy conditions that are common on the Swan Coastal Plain. To significantly improve irrigation uniformity, it is likely that on many areas, sprinklers and laterals will need to be installed at closer spacings than what are currently used. Guidelines for the design of turf irrigation systems that have an acceptable distribution uniformity in windy conditions should be developed and this information needs to be extended to industry. An economic assessment should be conducted to compare the total capital and operating cost of installing a more uniform irrigation system, with examples of typical existing irrigation designs. The capital cost of installing a more uniform system will be higher however more even turf growth can be achieved with less water which is important with a planned reduction in water allocations. Soil moisture sensors can be used to monitor the effectiveness of a weather based (ET) approach to irrigation scheduling– provided the irrigation system applies water with an acceptable uniformity.
Figure 4. An aerial view of the Kingsway Sporting complex showing brown patches that are caused by poor irrigation uniformity.
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Many thanks to turf consultant John Forrest who assisted with the turf component of the study.
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HOW DOES YOUR SYSTEM PERFORM? By David Rowe - DPIRD
Knowing the performance of your irrigation system is vital for optimising scheduling and improving production efficiency. One of the best indicators of irrigation performance is uniformity, which is how evenly water is applied to the irrigated area. Systems with high uniformity can produce even-growing crops more efficiently. This is because systems with poor uniformity must operate for longer in order to apply the right amount of water to all parts of the crop. This uses more power and
creates ‘wet’ spots where water and nutrients move beyond the root zone and become unavailable to the plants.
Fixed overhead sprinklers
Performance data sheets for sprinklers indicate the level of uniformity to expect given a particular spacing, nozzle type and operating pressure. However, these indications do not account for real-world effects such as slope, wind and pressure variations which have a major impact on uniformity.
Above: Catch-cup test for impact sprinklers
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The best way to assess the performance of overhead sprinkler systems is with a catch-cup test. This involves placing measuring cups in a grid pattern within the irrigated area, running the irrigation system for a set amount of time - usually 15 or 20 minutes – and then recording the depth of water captured in each cup. Distribution uniformity (DU) is calculated by dividing the average of the lowest quarter of depths recorded
pass. This allows threes passes in quick succession which increases the reliability of the data. Cups are usually not placed along the innermost one or two spans as this allows more complete passes to be made over a given amount of time.
Drip systems
Above: DU testing a centre pivot
by the average of all depths recorded. This is then multiplied by 100 to obtain a percentage value. The industry minimum standard for overhead irrigation systems is a DU of 75%. Example: Depth (mm) measurements from a catch-can test arranged from smallest to largest. 7, 7, 8, 8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 9, 9, 10, 10, 11, 11, 11, 11, 12, 12, 12, 13, 13, 14, 14, 15
Centre pivots
Testing the uniformity of centre pivots uses a similar method to that for fixed overhead sprinklers. The main difference is the cups are arranged in a single line along the pivot radius. It is usually desirable to reverse the pivot once it finishes the first pass of the cups and then again after the second
Testing uniformity of drip systems requires a slightly different approach to that for overhead systems. Using a small measuring cup, water is captured directly from an emitter over a set period of 30-60 seconds. This is replicated in different locations along several drip lines to ensure any pressure/flow variations are accounted for. About eight measurements is enough to calculate the average application rate (L/hr) and DU as described previously. The industry minimum standard for uniformity of drip irrigation systems is 85%. For more information on measuring delivery of irrigation systems contact DPIRD’s Research Scientist David Rowe (david.rowe@dpird.wa.gov.au) Below: Measuring flow rate of drip emitter
Average of lowest quarter = 7.8 mm Average of total = 10.5 mm 7.8 × 100 = 74.6% DU 10.5
Tips for doing a catch-cup test
• Use at least 24 cups spaced at 2m apart to get a reliable result • Some cups measure volume (ml) while others measure irrigation depth (mm) and some measure both. Volume can be converted to depth using an equation • Choose a location that is representative such near the middle of the lateral where pressures are closer to the average • Do the test during typical wind conditions for your location to ensure results are representative of real conditions
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PIPING THE COLLIE RIVER IRRIGATION DISTRICT Harvey Water, as a supplier of irrigation water to the Collie River Irrigation District (CRID), has over recent months been working alongside Collie Water and CRID farmers developing the design parameters to replace the current open channel irrigation scheme with a closed pipe system.
Water is supplied to over 220 farmers who irrigated just less than 3,000 hectares of land during the irrigation season, which generally runs from September until May. For this group of irrigators, the bulk of their water comes from Wellington
The CRID is the southernmost of three irrigation districts managed by Harvey Water, with Harvey and Waroona districts to the north. The CRID is the last remaining area to be piped. The aim is to convert clay and concrete lined channels in the CRID to a buried network of high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. The CRID comprises over 200km of open channels which commenced construction during the Great Depression. Due to the age of these channels, their condition is deteriorating. With the growing imperative to maximise water use efficiency combined with climate impacts, piping is the best solution to system losses through leakage, seepage and evaporation.
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Dam, which is to the east in the Wellington National Park. The water is released from Wellington Dam, from where it flows to Burekup Weir which serves as a gravity ‘header tank’ for the channel system. Irrigators can ‘order’ their water from the system based on their seasonal allowance. Harvey
Water’s Water Controllers manage these requests, releasing water from the Dam and Weir at the appropriate time according to demand. The journey from Wellington Dam to any given irrigator, through the open channels, results in losses in excess of 30% annually. The proposed new piping project will include new supply points, a modern automated delivery system, and most importantly reduce water loss to below five percent annually. Each farmer that will be impacted by the project has been contacted by Harvey Water, and given the opportunity to have their input into the capacity of potential future piped supply point(s). Beyond the farm gate, irrigation infrastructure will be the responsibility of individual landowners. The project poses numerous advantages to CRID farmers by way of a more reliable and efficient delivery of water to irrigators. Project viability is however contingent upon the Myalup Wellington Project commencing.
Once the irrigator consultation stage has concluded, Harvey Water, in consultation with project proponent Collie Water, will extend invitations to qualified consultants to provide a detailed design. Progressing beyond design will be linked to the commencement of the broader Myalup Wellington Project.
Orbit B-hyve Controllers 2020_HR Products Outlines.ai 1 25/02/2020 8:01:31 AM
Article by Richgro
2 MINUTES A DAY IN NATURE: Benefits of being in the garden
By David Miles, Sales Manager – Richgro Landscape and Commercial When was the last time you sat in the garden and looked out at what was around you? I do this quite often after a good or bad day. One of being grateful for what I have and reflecting on the day just gone, or the day about to begin. Remember all the senses we have the fortune of looking after…….. 1. Sight – 80% of all impressions are through the eyes 2. Sound/hearing 3. Smell/scent 4. Touch 5. Taste Even perception is a gift. As a keen gardener, the time I spend connecting to the earth, planting and reaping the rewards is so emotionally satisfying.
I’m no expert, but I know firsthand how gardening improves our wellbeing and health and healing everywhere in the world. A national survey of over 500 people conducted by Richgro in April this year found out that: • 98% of people say that spending time in the garden improves their mood • 76% of people are spending more time in their outside space than they did pre-social distancing measures • More than half (57%) say they are growing more fruit and vegetables • 80% of respondents had made gardening-related purchases in the past month • 91% of households with kids at home are using the garden as part of their routines and entertainment while self-isolating. contiunes page 20
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AS4454 Lic 1901
I spend just 2 minutes each day focusing on something
beautiful. That could be a flower, tree, a forest, bird sounds
or the blue sky. Just spending the time focused on something
uplifting, rather than stressful or negative thoughts can improve your health and boost your immune system. I can guarantee you; every day is different; every season is different and the price to pay for sitting in the garden………………………. IT’S FREE!!
Choosing the right quality soil still remains critical in any new gardening undertaking. Richgro continues to have a wide range of Australian Standard soils such as:
Our Richgro brand ambassador and well known gardening TV expert, Charlie Albone, says it as well “With many of us doing the right thing and self isolating and social distancing at the moment, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, there is no better time to get into the garden. With prolonged periods inside just getting out and sitting in our outdoor spaces, no matter how big or small, will give us positive mental benefits, it will refresh your mood and give you some much needed Vitamin D from the Autumn sun.”
Landscape mix https://www.richgro.com.au/products/soil-mixes/landscapemix-as4419-certified/
At a time like we are going through as we have low energy, feeling down, melancholy and depression. Now is the time to connect with the garden and feel better, if only in a small way for now, but increasing as we connect with our little space. Whatever negative thoughts one might have, feeling down or depressed, just one hour a day in the garden, I can guarantee will improve our inner mood exponentially. The connection with the earth and plants calms the nerves, reduces blood pressure, reduces stress and allows the breathing to become deeper and longer. Forget all those drugs to overcome depression, get outside in the garden and TRY SOMETHING!! The time in the garden also can burn up calories and encourage weight loss, fitness and general overall health and wellbeing. Make the garden your friend which, in turn, makes you feel belonging in that space and offers plenty of help if you are willing to work with the garden.
Metro soil conditioner https://www.richgro.com.au/products/soil-conditioners/ metro-soil-conditioner/ Native mix https://www.richgro.com.au/products/soil-mixes/native-mixas4419-certified/ Veggie mix https://www.richgro.com.au/products/soil-mixes/organicvegie-mix/ …all with proven and consistent results year after year. I have a new secret trick I work on now………… I spend just 2 minutes each day focusing on something beautiful. That could be a flower, tree, a forest, bird sounds or the blue sky. Just spending the time focused on something uplifting, rather than stressful or negative thoughts can improve your health and boost your immune system. So just 2 minutes a day in nature…I think that’s pretty easy to do to achieve great improvements in our wellness. Forget how busy you are and thinking about ‘doing’ so much. By doing my ‘2 minute secret’, I can guarantee the connection with nature will improve your mental, inner space.
Watch our video
How to Grow the Best Veggies in your Garden with TV Gardening Expert and Landscape Designer Charlie Albone.
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The Overflow - Autumn 2020
CHANGING SEASONS
means changing irrigation settings Winter is almost here, which means gardens can rely more on ‘Mother Nature’ and less on sprinklers to get the water they need. During May, irrigation should be used manually and only on allocated watering days as needed. We’re asking WA IAL members and Waterwise Program members to remind their customers to adjust irrigation controller settings. While the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off does not officially start until 1 June, each year more Western Australian households and businesses are choosing to switch-off early. When we all work together, we can bank water for when we need it most in the warmer months. To find out more about the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off, visit: https://www.watercorporation.com.au/wintersprinklerswitchoff
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Aerial geophysical surveys were undertaken in the Pilbara in 2019 as part of a DPRID project to identify suitable areas to store mine dewater surplus underground.
TAP PILBARA AERIAL STUDY The potential to store surplus dewater underground that could be used for irrigated agriculture in Western Australia’s northern rangelands is being explored by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia (DPIRD). The research is a part of the department’s Transforming Agriculture in the Pilbara (TAP) project, to groundproof soil and water resources in the region for possible horticulture, fodder and field crop production. In October 2019 aerial geophysical surveys were undertaken in collaboration with the CSIRO and BHP in the east Pilbara to identify suitable sites for underground water storage.
Hills Hoist clothes line suspended from a helicopter to collect information on moisture content, stratigraphy, porosity and salinity over the area,” he said. “The data from the surveys will help to identify areas that could be suitable for what is called managed aquifer recharge, which involves the injection or controlled infiltration of water underground for later use.”
Rangeland water assets
Previous surveys have found there could be up to 10 gigalitres of mine dewater from mining operations in the region that could be stored underground, with the prospect of more in the future.
Department TAP project manager Chris Schelfhout said surveying was a sight to behold.
The data is now with the CSIRO for processing to identify groundwater quality and suitable areas for managed aquifer recharge.
“The aerial geophysical surveys used a device that looked like a gigantic
Once the data is processed in 2020, the department will undertake
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activities to ground-proof information and verify the findings. This will involve a drilling program and pump testing aquifers, planned in the latter half of 2020. “This research will provide vital information on the potential to harness mine dewater surplus and store it underground, where there is no evaporation, so it can be reused for irrigated agriculture developments,” Dr Schelfhout said. “In doing so it will help to de-risk future investments in irrigated production in the rangelands and open the doors to opportunities for mosaic agriculture.”
TAP project to open doors to opportunities
The research is just one component of the $5.9 million TAP project to explore irrigated agriculture opportunities for a range of development sizes.
This research
will provide vital
information on the
potential to harness mine dewater
surplus and store it underground,
where there is no evaporation, so it
can be reused for
irrigated agriculture developments.
Ten areas with significant land and water resources have already been identified and some have become the focus of further soil and water field validation, including around the De Grey River, Shaw River, Karratha Hinterland and Newman. The three year project is also establishing test bores to assess water supply, quality and sustainability, as well as soil surveys to identify suitable areas for agricultural production. The department is working in partnership with industry on prospective irrigation systems research activities to optimise productivity from suitable land and water resources. For more information about the TAP project visit the department’s website www.agric.wa.gov.au and search for ‘tap’.
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How to maximise the lifecycle cost of your pump
Article by Franklin Electric
When procuring a pump, upfront cost is often a major consideration in the decision-making process. However, according to a report issued by the Victorian Government, the initial cost accounts for less than ten per cent of the lifecycle cost, with energy and maintenance making up the bulk of these costs at between 50 and 95 per cent. Therefore, it is important to consider the long-term costs when selecting a pump to get the most cost-effective solution. Here, we look at what factors can influence and maximise the lifecycle cost of your pump. While there are inevitable costs that are hard to control such as environmental, disposal and installation costs, end users can realise long-term savings with reduced maintenance, energy costs and downtime.
Selecting a pump: quality over cost
One important choice when selecting a pump that will influence its lifecycle costs is the quality of the equipment. A quality, reliable, well-built pump will likely have a lower lifecycle cost than a cheaper, lightweight pump. Going for a cheaper option may result in a lesser quality product, especially if the materials selected are not suitable for the application. If this is the case, lifecycle costs can quickly increase as there is a higher chance of premature failure or unexpected servicing and replacement costs. Along with materials, a high-quality product will have gone through rigorous testing to ensure it will run reliably and will be defect-free at the time of purchase. Another area where quality can be realised is through the level of customer service you receive from the manufacturer.
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The Overflow - Autumn 2020
A manufacturer with top quality service will be able to provide prompt technical support so that minimal downtime is experienced. Companies with quality customer service will also be able to provide an expert opinion when selecting a pump to ensure it will be the best fit for your application.
Getting the right size pump
Selecting a correctly sized pump is imperative to reduce lifecycle costs. While it might be tempting to get a smaller pump to reduce costs or a larger pump to account for possible higher pumping requirements, these will ultimately result in higher costs in the long term. An undersized pump will result in reduced water efficiency, while an oversized pump will have a higher installation cost, as well as higher energy usage and wear rate. Maximising energy efficiency For applications such as irrigation where variable speed and flow rates may be needed, investing in a pump with a variable frequency drive (VFD) will help reduce lifecycle costs. VFDs can be programmed to run the pumps at a certain speed and flow rate for different connected zones so that it is always running to its best efficiency point (BEP). While a VFD will increase the initial cost of the pump, if the pump is not running to its BEP, it will experience increased wear and require more frequent maintenance and parts replacement, and have high energy consumption.
Reliable irrigation solutions
Franklin Electric has over 75 years of experience providing industry-leading technical service to the irrigation industry, providing support and advice to keep you pumping in even the most rural areas.
Leading the industry in service standards
ď„ˆ www.franklin-electric.com.au
ď„‹
1300 670 060
•
evaluating the water case studies in terms of sustainability benchmarks and developing sustainability assessment tools to evaluate and promote pathways to urban water sustainability.
As part of the external advisory panel, Dr Mouritz helped organise a visit to Perth by post-doctoral researcher Dr Amanda Fencl. During February and March 2020, Dr Fencl interviewed a range of stakeholders, including members of the Water Sensitive Transition Network who volunteered their time.
The famous San Antonio River Walk, based around recycled wastewater, was an interesting aspect of Dr Mike Mouritz’ recent trip to Texas to profile Perth’s transition to a water sensitive city.
Perth’s WSC transition studied in Texas Australia’s water sensitive cities research and experience is increasingly being sought internationally, and Perth is a leading example of what’s possible for cities making the transition to a cleaner and sustainable water future. Indeed, researchers at Texas A&M University are so interested in Perth’s journey and the whole CRCWSC agenda and initiatives, they invited Dr Mike Mouritz (former CRCWSC board member, current chair of the WA Regional Advisory Panel and current member of Perth’s Water Sensitive Transition Network) to join a project called ‘Pathways to sustainable urban water security: desalination and water reuse in the 21st century’. The project is exploring whether desalination and wastewater reuse technologies can deliver sustainable transformations of urban water systems
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across the globe, and is using Perth as one of its case studies. Dr Mouritz will be a member of the project’s external advisory panel. The famous San Antonio River Walk, based around recycled wastewater, was an interesting aspect of Dr Mike Mouritz’ recent trip to Texas to profile Perth’s transition to a water sensitive city. The project will be: •
analysing the nature and dynamics of the global desalination and wastewater reuse sector
•
describing how existing water and urban governance systems, law, and regulation hinder or stimulate desalination and water reuse projects
•
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examining institutional, sectoral, and stakeholder perspectives on urban desalination and water reuse
While in Texas, Dr Mouritz saw many similarities between Perth and San Antonio. He said both cities are about the same size, have a long history of water security innovation, and rely on groundwater and brackish groundwater desalination plants. In fact, Dr Mouritz said San Antonio has one of the most successful wastewater recycling systems he has seen. ‘San Antonio has been pursuing active water education with its community for a long time, which has helped to reduce consumption—as is also the case in Perth. Although San Antonio would not call itself water sensitive, there has been activity in that space for a long while. ‘A highlight for me is that a large part of the San Antonio economy is the convention industry and a large part of the attractiveness of the location is the River Walk—and the river that the walk is based around is recycled wastewater! Nobody—at least most of the convention goers—has any idea about that, which is a great reminder that the value creation opportunities of water in the urban environment are much more than its consumptive use,’ he said. Learn more about the Texas A&M University study at: https://urbanwaterpathways.org/ Reprinted with permission. Article originally appeared in waterSENSE: https://watersensitivecities.org.au/ content/perths-wsc-transition-studiedin-texas/
Water Update
Supplied by the Water Corporation Current graphs can be found at www.watercorporation.com.au
Water Usage Metro Region
https://www.watercorporation.com.au/water-supply/rainfalland-dams/usage
Yearly Streamflow https://www.watercorporation.com.au/water-supply/rainfalland-dams/streamflow
Perth Rainfall Comparison https://www.watercorporation.com.au/water-supply/rainfalland-dams/rainfall
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RETICULATION SYSTEM.
Whether you are starting from scratch or wanting to improve your existing system, talk to a Waterwise Garden Irrigator for professional irrigation design, installation and maintenance services.
HAVE YOU VISITED THE WA WATERWISE PROGRAMS WEBSITE? If you prefer to do-it-yourself, get expert advice and quality parts from your local Waterwise Irrigation Design Shop (retail outlet).
www.waterwiseprograms.com.au
To find a Waterwise professional in your local area, simply scan our QR code to search the Waterwise Irrigation Directory, or visit our website wa.waterwiseprograms.com.au
Search the Waterwise Irrigation Directory
Alternatively please contact us on: (08) 9368 3136 | adminsupport@irrigation.org.au | wa.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
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AAA Irrigation
Instant Gardens
Reticulation & Gardens Perth
Adonis Gardening & Irrigation
Irriscape Reticulation & Landscaping
Retic Repairs WA
Advantage Bores & Reticulation Services
Jim's Mowing Wilson North
Reticulation Pro
All water irrigation
Joel Irrigation & Landscaping
Softscapes & Reticulation Pty Ltd
Allwest Bores & Reticulation
Landscape Elements Pty Ltd
Sprinkler Fixers
B & C Fiorini Pty Ltd
Landscape Works WA
Superior Landscaping & Reticulation
BHG Garden Service
LD TOTAL
The Garden Fixer
Bolesta's Backyard Creations
Love My Retic
The Greenscape Collective
Bowie Irrigation
Lowcut Lawnmowing
The Retic Company
Bradkaz Irrigation
Luke's Landscaping Co
The Retic & Landscape Shop
Brighton Reticulation
MacKenzie Landscapes
The Watershed Water Systems Midland
Brookwell Irrigation
Midwest Turf Supplies
Think Water Dunsborough
Chris’s Landscaping
MJ Landscaping
Think Water Geraldton
Civic Reticulation
Mr Retic
Think Water Perth
Clackline Reticulation
Peel Scape Solutions
TLC Services Perth
Coast to Coast Irrigation
Perdita Reticulation & Garden Solutions
Top Dog Landscaping and Reticulation
Condo Landscapes Pty Ltd
Perfect Home Solutions
Total Eden
Country Landscaping Pty Ltd
Perth Lawns and Retic
Turfed Out
Earlybird Landscaping
Perth Reticulation Service
Ultimate Blue Pty Ltd
Earth & Water Pty Ltd
Pimp My Yard
Urban Outlook Landscape Construction
Ecoedge Retic Supplies
Plantech Grounds Maintenance
WA Reticulation Supplies
Elliotts Irrigation Pty Ltd
Portworks
WaterLink
Evergreen Blades
Pretty Blooming Good
Waterwise Landscaping
Evergrow Gardenscapes
Prime Landscaping Pty Ltd
Waterwise West
First Element Irrigation
PTC Irrigation
Westcoast Reticulation Services
FPM Landscapes Pty Ltd
Pumps N Pipes Supplies
Wet Frog Retic
Garden Solutions
Rain Maker Irrigation Services
WF Landscape Industries Pty Ltd
Great Northern Rural Services
Rapid Retic
Wild Earth Landscapes
Growing Assets
Retic Express
Willetton Landscapes
Horizon West Landscape & Irrigation
Retic Turf & Soakwells Pty Ltd
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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.
WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOPS Addwater Reticulation - Maddington
Think Water Dunsborough
Controlled Irrigation Supplies - Joondalup
Think Water Geraldton
Elliotts Irrigation Pty Ltd- Greenwood
Think Water Perth
Muchea Irrigation & Rural Supplies
Total Eden Watering Systems - Balcatta
Rainscape Waterwise Solutions - Bibra Lake
Total Eden Watering Systems - Bibra Lake
Reece Irrigation - Belmont
Total Eden Watering Systems - Byford
Reece Irrigation - Canning Vale
Total Eden Watering Systems - Canning Vale
Reece Irrigation - Malaga
Total Eden Watering Systems - Greenwood
Reece Irrigation - Osborne Park
Total Eden Watering Systems - Joondalup
Reece Irrigation - Rockingham
Total Eden Watering Systems - Malaga
The Retic & Landscape Shop- Southern River
Total Eden Watering Systems - Mandurah
The Watershed Water Systems - Cockburn
Total Eden Watering Systems - Midvale
The Watershed Water Systems - Midland
Total Eden Watering Systems - Myaree
The Watershed Water Systems - Morley
Total Eden Watering Systems - Osborne Park
The Watershed Water Systems - Subiaco
Total Eden Watering Systems - Rockingham
Think Water Broome
WA Reticulation Supplies - Armadale WA Reticulation Supplies - Midland
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. We welcome the following new members to the Programs:
WATERWISE IRRIGATION DESIGN SHOP Total Eden – Busselton
WATERWISE GARDEN IRRIGATOR PROGRAM ARB Landscaping & Fencing Country Landscaping & Irrigation Total Eden - Busselton
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you can’t beat
The Original
water is precious. put your trust in the original.
For more information please contact your local Philmac dealer or call 1800 755 899 PHI0533-04/19
