College - Author 1
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Department - Author 1
BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in BioResource and Agricultural Engineering
Date
3-2010
Primary Advisor
Charles M. Burt
Abstract/Summary
Rocky H Ranch is a 120 acre avocado farm located in Escondido California. There is a 20 acre parcel that has not been planted. The roads, trees, and irrigation system were designed to maximize yields and irrigation system performance while utilizing the latest technology.
Roads were laid out along the contours to maintain block sizes to an average length and width. This is done for two reasons, ease of harvesting and so the irrigation laterals are not excessively long. Nine blocks, or where roads surrounded trees, were created. The trees were laid out along the contours at a 15 foot row spacing and 10 foot tree spacing. There will be a total of 4,117 trees that cover 14.2 acres.
The 9 blocks were divided into 2 irrigation sets. Set 1 has a flow rate of 777 gallons per minute and a total dynamic head of 116 feet. Set 2 has a flow rate of 856 gallons per minute and a total dynamic head of 173 feet. The NETAFIM SUPERNET # 90 Orange micro-sprinkler was selected because of its pressure compensating technology and a nominal flow rate of 23.8 gallons per minute.
The Grundfos Model 800S500-2 pump was also selected and will utilize a VFD controller. It will operate at a maximum of 18 hours per day to coincide with off-peak and semi-peak electrical power rates. The system will provide enough water to meet the peak evapotranspiration rate and have a system distribution uniformity of .95.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/braesp/2