Elements and Performance Criteria
- Ensure the surface irrigation system is prepared for operation
- Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures for a surface irrigation system
- Measure performance of a surface irrigation system
- Record variations in pressures at the head works and control valves
- Water flow rates are measured and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
- Measure and record water flow rates
- Identify and record variations in water flow and distribution
- Measure and record pump performance parameters as necessary
- Measure and record variations in pump performance parameters where relevant
- Inspect distribution, drainage and water measurement systems and identify and fix malfunctions in system and record actions
- Identify and record factors external to the system that may cause interference
- Review system performance status
- Record system pressures and variations
- Record system flow rates and variations
- Calculate and record distribution uniformity and mean application rates
- Determine and record watering depth
- Measure quantity and quality of tail water, and amount of water reused
- Calculate energy use and water efficiency and compare to industry benchmarks