Golf Course Products and Services

Looking for answers to specific questions about agronomy? Pat Gross is here to help.

Pat retired from the United States Golf Association (USGA) after a 28-year career as an agronomist and director of the Western Region of the Green Section. During his tenure with the USGA, he completed more than 2,000 on-site consulting visits with a focus on providing practical information to help golf courses conserve water and improve course conditions.

Take advantage of Pat’s in-depth knowledge and experience in the golf industry by submitting your questions below.

Recent Question

Q: How long does an irrigation system last? How can I tell when it needs to be replaced?

A: In general, an irrigation system can last from 20 to 30 years; however, some components wear out more rapidly and need to be replaced at more frequent intervals. The following chart provides an estimate of the longevity of various irrigation system components:

Here is a summary of the various factors to consider regarding the replacement of an irrigation system:

• Age of the components: The age of pipe, wire, fittings, valves, sprinklers, and controllers gives a general estimate of how long things last and is a good guideline for making long range plans. The shorter life span is for systems in southern climates that irrigate for 12 months, and the longer life span is for systems that are only used part of the year.
• Frequency of breaks and increasing cost of repairs: Keeping track of the amount spent on irrigation repairs gives an indication of system fatigue and the need to replace pipe, valves, and fittings. Pipe and fitting failures of one time per week or more and two mainline repairs per month or more indicates mounting problems and the need for replacement.
• Changes to the design of the golf course/availability of new technology: Architectural changes to the golf course provide a good opportunity to upgrade and adjust the irrigation system. Incorporating new technology in the areas of sprinklers, satellites and central controllers can maximize irrigation uniformity and efficiency and help courses to conserve water.
• Irrigation system audit: Performing an audit of the irrigation system every five years is ultimately the best way to track changes in irrigation system performance and the need for replacement.

The article When Is It Time to Replace an Irrigation System? provides further details on analyzing irrigation performance and determining when replacement is necessary.