A review of in-canopy and near-canopy sprinkler irrigation concepts

Abstract

The use of in-canopy and near-canopy sprinkler application with mechanical-move systems is prevalent in the U.S. Great Plains. These systems can reduce evaporative losses by nearly 15%, but they introduce a much greater potential for irrigation non-uniformity and other water losses. This article is a review of these application technologies for mechanical-move sprinkler irrigation systems that have been widely adopted in the region, where irrigation capacities are typically less than those required to meet “fully irrigated” crop water demand and there is limited seasonal precipitation. Close attention to the design, installation, management, and operating guidelines for these systems can prevent many of the nonuniformity and water loss issues that reduce system performance and crop water productivity.