Irrigation site assessment: what should be checked?

Water source and supply reliability

• Source type, seasonal availability and dependable yield
• Water quality and filtration considerations
• Storage volume, inlet/outlet and tank elevation
• Existing pump, water levels and operating records
• Any restrictions on abstraction or water use

Field, crop and terrain

• Field boundaries, dimensions and irrigated blocks
• Crop type, row spacing, planting dates and rotation
• Slope, elevation changes and drainage
• Soil texture, infiltration and observed wetting behaviour
• Access roads, obstacles and future expansion

Infrastructure and project constraints

• Power availability and reliability
• Existing pipework, structures and irrigation equipment
• Installation access and maintenance routes
• Budget, project timing and scope
• Required design drawings, bill of quantities or installation support

Assessment outcome

A site assessment should clarify the design assumptions, missing measurements, recommended next steps and whether a concept layout, detailed design, quotation or site-specific investigation is appropriate.

Not every project requires the same level of assessment. The scope and deliverables should be agreed before work begins.