This July, be sure to celebrate Smart Irrigation Month!
The Irrigation Association highlights several values of smart irrigation, like creating more livable communities where people can play and stay active with the addition of green infrastructure.
Green infrastructure can include the addition of structures like rain gardens, green roofs, or even animal crossings and overpasses within traditionally urban spaces. These green spaces provide several benefits to the community they inhabit: cleaner air and water, better flood protection, and resilience against natural phenomena like drought.
Smart irrigation systems ensure the right amount of water is used at the right time to sustain and care for green infrastructure adequately. Efforts to keep irrigation systems efficient include grouping plants based on their need for water and adjusting the irrigation system based on time of year and plant type.
Smart irrigation can also be observed in your own home! One way to do this is by implementing your own smart irrigation system. Devices like weather-based irrigation controllers, soil moisture-based irrigation controllers, and other WaterSense-labeled products can help you create a slice of green infrastructure in your neighborhood.
You can also receive customized weekly watering recommendations utilizing WaterMyYard.org through their website or easy-to-access mobile app. This excellent tool collects data from an extensive network of weather stations and rain gauges to advise how much water is needed for your specific lawn and/or irrigation system.
This July, be sure to celebrate Smart Irrigation Month!
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/what-green-infrastructure
https://www.irrigation.org/IA/Resources/Smart_Irrigation_Month_Landscape_Messaging.aspx