BMPs for Water Conservation in Turf. Dr. Charles H. Peacock NC State University

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1 BMPs for Water Conservation in Turf Dr. Charles H. Peacock NC State University

2 Water Conservation Water Use Efficiency Alternative Sources of Water Water Consumption

3 Water Use Efficiency Water use efficiency practices to conserve water fall into two general categories: Physical Practices Alteration of design and/or installing or retrofitting of features or irrigation systems that provide longterm benefits at saving water. These include the installation of computer-controlled irrigation equipment or the retrofitting of irrigation components to make the system more efficient such as the use of part-circle irrigation heads or irrigation moisture sensors. Behavioral Practices Changing individual water use habits so that water is used more efficiently through intelligent management in a systems approach.

4 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Planning and Design A minimal amount of irrigated turf area has been incorporated into the design. Where possible, grasses which do not require irrigation have been used. The best adapted turfgrass species and cultivars for the climatic region are being used. Advances in turfgrass breeding have produced more drought-resistant cultivars and grasses which tolerate poor quality water and are well-suited for turf areas. Where possible, irrigated turf area has been reduced and replaced with native grasses, groundcovers or other vegetation that doesn t require irrigation. Alternative water sources such as nonpotable or reclaimed water is used as an irrigation source.

5 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Irrigation System Design and Operation Irrigation is confined only to crucial areas. Water use priority areas have been identified including those requiring little or no supplementary irrigation. Irrigation system is designed to meet the water requirements of the turf by supplementing natural rainfall. Irrigation is managed with a computer controlled system utilizing all valve-in-head designs with individual head control. Irrigation frequency is based on a water budget method. It is calculated as a factor of soil moisture holding capacity, rooting depth and plant water use.

6 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Irrigation System Design and Operation An audit is performed on the irrigation system to determine if the proper water distribution is being achieved in all irrigated areas at least once per year. This identifies leaks, irrigation head malfunction, and/or design limitations. Daily water use is being monitored and monthly usage is summarized. Targets are set for yearly improvement in efficiency of system operation and water usage. Soil moisture sensors are utilized to determine when soil conditions are dry enough to require irrigation.

7 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Turfgrass Cultural Practices As high a cutting height as possible is maintained within the confines of the particular turfgrass use on putting greens, tees, or fairways. An optimum soil ph between 6.0 and 7.0 is maintained to maximize nutrient availability and microbiological activity. Adequate soil potassium (K) levels are maintained which promotes root development. Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization is avoided especially on coolseason grasses that forces shoot growth at the expense of root development. During times of stress, a root-stimulating growth enhancement supplement can be used.

8 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Turfgrass Cultural Practices Soil compaction is minimized through turf cultivation. Excessive thatch accumulation which encourages root development in the thatch/mat layer only is avoided. Intense mechanical maintenance practices such as topdressing, vertical cutting, and turf cultivation are avoided during summer stress periods. Potential problems from pesticides toxic to the root system, particularly certain preemergence herbicides are avoided. Potentially serious insect, disease and nematode pests that feed on the root system are controlled.

9 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Irrigation Management Irrigation frequency is varied with environmental or climatic factors. Less frequent irrigation is needed when the roots of turf are deep. More frequent irrigation is needed when roots are shallow. Water is not applied too quickly to avoid runoff from sloped sites, from where turf thatch has accumulated or where there are compacted soils. A healthy durable turf that withstands minor drought is achieved by irrigating thoroughly, but as infrequently as possible. A sure sign that turf will benefit from irrigation is a wilted appearance.

10 Wilted grass

11 Wilted grass

12 Best Management Practices for Maximum Water Use Efficiency Turf is watered at the most efficient time of day from late evening through early morning (between 10 pm and 8 am). Turf, soil or environmental conditions may result in the need for more than one irrigation event per 24-hour period including during daylight hours. Under these conditions, site specific watering (e.g., hand watering and syringing) is performed.

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22 TIMS

23 Concept of Xeriscaping Xeriscape is a method of landscaping that promotes water conservation.

24 Concept of Xeriscaping

25 Concept of Xeriscaping Xeriscape is a method of landscaping that promotes water conservation. Rather than a specific 'look' or a limited group of plants, Xeriscape is a combination of seven basic landscaping principles. 1. Planning and Design - Incorporate as many of the natural elements of the site into the design as possible, such as existing trees and shrubs. 2. Soil Improvements a soil analysis for nutrients; soil amendments if necessary. 3. Efficient Irrigation - Zone turf areas separately from other plantings and use the irrigation method that waters the plants in each area most efficiently. Drip, spray or bubbler emitters are most efficient for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and groundcovers.

26 Concept of Xeriscaping Xeriscape is a method of landscaping that promotes water conservation. Rather than a specific 'look' or a limited group of plants, Xeriscape is a combination of seven basic landscaping principles. 4. Zoning of Plants - group together plants with similar light and water requirements, and place them in an area which matches these requirements. 5. Mulches - help keep plants roots cool, prevents soil from crusting, minimizes evaporation and reduces weed growth. Mulches also give beds a finished look and increase the visual appeal of the landscaping.

27 Concept of Xeriscaping Xeriscape is a method of landscaping that promotes water conservation. Rather than a specific 'look' or a limited group of plants, Xeriscape is a combination of seven basic landscaping principles. 6. Turf Alternatives - reduce the amount of turf in the landscape. Choosing a turf that uses less water also serves the same purpose. 7. Appropriate Maintenance

28 Plants don t waste water. People do!

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