Paul Wolf

 Understand what turf grass is and what it is used for.  How to select an irrigation system.  How to install an irrigation system.  Maintaining an irrigation system.

 Turf grass is planted in an area normally used for recreation or looks.  It can be a mixture of grasses maintained at a low height to provide cushion under someone’s feet.

 Please get out a blank sheet of paper.  List 5 places turf grass may be seen or used.

 Turf grass requires a lot of water to maintain its green appearance year round.  2 types: In-ground systems and above- ground systems.

 In-ground systems should be installed prior to building the turf and planting the grass.  Benefits: Self sufficient, supplies water to a large area, system is ran by a timer, does not waist much water.  Disadvantage: Costly installation.

 Above-ground irrigation systems can be used once the turf grass has been established.  Benefits: Cheap, easy to maintain, can be used on smaller turf areas.  Disadvantage: Waists some water, requires time to set up and taking down, supervision is required while system is running.

 Start from a central water supply.  Install a water cut off valve and drain.  Make trenching zones.  Install pipe and sprinkler heads.  Put system together.  Test the system for any leaks.  Cover the trenches, burying the pipe lines.  Plant seed in preparation for grass.  Program the irrigation system.

 Self propelled cut off system:  Place the system at the far end of the turf area.  Turn the system on. The sprinkler will roll it’s self up, dispersing water over the area as it is retracted.  Once the system has rolled up completely, it should automatically turn off.

 Always monitor the irrigation system as it is dispersing water on the turf to check for any leaks, clogs, or damaged heads.  Winter proof the system by draining the water when temperature is below freezing and insulate exposed pipes.  Never leave the irrigation system running unattended, a flood can occur very fast!

 With in your group, draw any type of sports field. In your drawing, include where one might place the sprinkler heads, the direction the sprinkler would disperse the water, and how to appropriately trench the system.