This publication discusses the variables and feasibility of storage of winter rainwater in order to avoid impact by the Irrigated Lands Conditional Waiver under the California State Water Code.

Matching the sprinkler application rate to the soil intake rate is difficult and complex. This publication discusses three approaches to determine the design application rate of a sprinkler irrigation system to the soil intake rate.

A helpful guide on reducing agricultural runoff from irrigated properties caused by irrigation practices or winter rainfall.

Pesticides can be a boon to farms, but residues that reach ground or surface waters threaten wildlife, water quality, and human health. This publication shows how to rate your farm's potential for harm and act to keep these chemicals under control.

Excess irrigation water that runs off a farm field (“tailwater”) is regulated by California law, since it may be carrying sediments, nutrients, and agricultural chemicals. Learn about options for safely recycling tailwater back into your farm operation.

Minimizing the application of excess water requires knowing when and how much water to apply. Flow measurement is most easily done in a pipeline; this publication describes the four most commonly used flowmeters, their maintenance, and uses.

If you experience runoff from an existing sprinkler-irrigated orchard, changing the design and set-up of the sprinkler system, the management of the sprinkler system, or the management of the orchard floor may reduce the amount.

Minimizing runoff from surface irrigation is a balance between adequate irrigation and tailwater runoff. This publication discusses how surface runoff can occur and management methods that can minimize the amount of water leaving a property.

A simple way to determine the proper irrigation amount is to estimate the amount of water the trees have used, evapotranspiration (ET), since the last irrigation. Learn how to easily calculate real-time ET rates using data provided by CIMIS.

Water-induced erosion carries valuable soil out of orchards and into downstream waterways, where it can cause serious problems. Learn how to keep your soil where it will do you the most good.