What is the optimal spacing for irrigation heads?

1 Why spacing matters

The spacing of your irrigation heads affects how efficiently and evenly you can water your golf course. If the spacing is too wide, you may create dry spots or waste water by overwatering other areas. If the spacing is too narrow, you may increase the cost and maintenance of your irrigation system. The goal is to achieve a balance between coverage and economy, while avoiding runoff and erosion.

2 The triangle method

One of the most common methods for determining the optimal spacing for your irrigation heads is the triangle method. This method involves placing your irrigation heads in a triangular pattern, so that each head is equidistant from its three nearest neighbors. This creates a uniform distribution of water and reduces the risk of overlap or gaps. To use the triangle method, you need to know the diameter of the water spray from each head, which depends on the nozzle size and water pressure. Then, you can use this formula to calculate the spacing:

Spacing = Diameter x 0.6

For example, if your irrigation head has a diameter of 40 feet, the spacing would be:

Spacing = 40 x 0.6

Spacing = 24 feet

3 The square method

Another method for determining the optimal spacing for your irrigation heads is the square method. This method involves placing your irrigation heads in a square grid, so that each head is aligned with its four nearest neighbors. This creates a simple and easy-to-install layout, but it may result in less uniformity and more overlap than the triangle method. To use the square method, you need to know the diameter of the water spray from each head, which depends on the nozzle size and water pressure. Then, you can use this formula to calculate the spacing:

Spacing = Diameter x 0.7

For example, if your irrigation head has a diameter of 40 feet, the spacing would be:

Spacing = 40 x 0.7

Spacing = 28 feet

4 The rectangular method

A third method for determining the optimal spacing for your irrigation heads is the rectangular method. This method involves placing your irrigation heads in a rectangular pattern, so that each head is closer to its two adjacent neighbors than to its two opposite neighbors. This creates a more flexible and adaptable layout, but it may require more calculations and adjustments than the other methods. To use the rectangular method, you need to know the diameter of the water spray from each head, which depends on the nozzle size and water pressure. Then, you can use these formulas to calculate the spacing:

Short spacing = Diameter x 0.5

Long spacing = Diameter x 0.8

For example, if your irrigation head has a diameter of 40 feet, the spacing would be:

Short spacing = 40 x 0.5

Short spacing = 20 feet

Long spacing = 40 x 0.8

Long spacing = 32 feet

5 The site-specific method

The final method for determining the optimal spacing for your irrigation heads is the site-specific method. This method involves customizing your spacing according to the specific conditions and features of your golf course, such as slopes, curves, obstacles, and microclimates. This creates a more precise and tailored layout, but it may require more time and expertise than the other methods. To use the site-specific method, you need to measure and map your golf course, and then use a software program or a manual chart to determine the best spacing for each irrigation head.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?