overhead sprinklers.
>11) How did you find out about our mailing list?< Through H.O.M.E. BBS (I
think).
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Wed Sep 13 02:26 EDT 1995
Date: Wed, 13 Sep 1995 01:17:37 -0500
Message-Id: <199509130617.AA10084@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 295
Contents:
(Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia <cgarcia@inialb.org.uy>)
response to Tom Meissner (Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia <cgarcia@inialb.org.uy>)
(evan@griffith.dwr.csiro.au (Evan Christen))
Date: Tue, 12 Sep 95 06:34:13 URU
From: Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia <cgarcia@inialb.org.uy>
Subject:
I work at INIA National Research Institute of Agriculture of
Uruguay. Our department is going to work with lysimeter into a
rain out shelter, mainly in pear, peach, allium and sweet
onion.
The idea is begin to work in drip irrigation and roots growing
but until now we do not have experience in this studies.
---
Soil Water and Climate Department
NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURE Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia
ANDES 1365 P12 MONTEVIDEO URUGUAY cgarcia@inialb.org.uy
CP 11100 SOUTH AMERICA
Date: Tue, 12 Sep 95 07:19:05 URU
From: Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia <cgarcia@inialb.org.uy>
Subject: response to Tom Meissner
In relation to garlic coeficients, Dr. Burba from Argentina
worked for more than 15 years in surface irrigation in garlic
maily red garlic. His phone number is 0054-622-70304 INTA LA
CONSULTA. He do not have e-mail.
We work in irrigation on garlic since 3 years but until now we
do not have crop coefficients. The rain is very irregular in
our country so it was not possible estimate crop consumptive.
---
Soil Water and Climate Department
NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURE Ing.Agr. Claudio Garcia
ANDES 1365 P12 MONTEVIDEO URUGUAY cgarcia@inialb.org.uy
CP 11100 SOUTH AMERICA
Date: Tue, 12 Sep 1995 20:32:12 -0500
From: evan@griffith.dwr.csiro.au (Evan Christen)
Subject:
1) Briefly, what is your affiliation with trickle/drip irrigation?
CSIRO research project investigating salt and water balances in vineyards.
Comparing drip irrigated vineyards with flood irrigated.
Based in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area in New South Wales, Australia
2) What crops or plants do you use drip irrigation on?
Drip is used on vineyards, citrus, tomatoes, cucurbits. The area under drip
irrrigation is less than 5% of horticulture. There are considerable barriers
to moving to drip.
3) If using subsurface drip irrigation, what is the average depth of
placement of the drip lateral?
Drip in perennial horticulture is surface, in vegetable crops is buried
about 150mm
4) What problems have you encountered with drip irrigation?
5) Fertigation is a real advantage of drip irrigation. What form of N, P
and K have you been trying and to what success?
6) Have you experienced a reduction in fertilizer and/or water use?
7) Do you have water quality problems? If so, how do you tackle the
situation? Filementatious algae can be a problem. Water is very turbid.
8) How frequent do you irrigate? Many times a day or just one long
session per day or several days? In peak season when ETo is 8-12mm/day
irrigation is daily otherwise every few days. Profiles need to be wetted up
before season starts, this is a heavy irrigation every day for afew days to
develop a large wetted volume
9) Do you have rodent damage? If so, how do you control the problem?
Foxes are biggest problem chewing through lines.
10) Are you pleased with the uniformity of your system or systems? Were
they designed correctly? Designs tend to be OK, although extremes of weather
may be a problem ( need large wetted volume). Management is a problem,
scheduling and irrigation times are arbitary. Drip irrigation often run too
long causing watertable rises. The 'Enviroscan" soil moisture monitoring
system is gaining acceptance and is probably the way to go.
Evan Christen
Irrigation and Drainage Management for Horticulture
CSIRO Division of Water Resources
Griffith Laboratory
Griffith
NSW 2680
Australia
Fax # 61 69 601600
"Errare Humanum Est" J.C. 50 B.C.
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Thu Sep 14 02:27 EDT 1995
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 01:17:49 -0500
Message-Id: <199509140617.AA09087@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 296
Contents:
Environscan? (storlie@AESOP.RUTGERS.EDU)
Environscan? - Reply (meissner.tony@wpo.pi.sa.gov.au)
Date: Wed, 13 Sep 1995 12:01:40 -0400 (EDT)
From: storlie@AESOP.RUTGERS.EDU
Subject: Environscan?
Can someone briefly describe the Environscan soil moisture
monitoring system?
Thanks,
C. Storlie
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 09:03:58 +0930
From: meissner.tony@wpo.pi.sa.gov.au
Subject: Environscan? - Reply
The Environscan is a soil moisture measuring instrument developed in Australia. It works on the
capacitance principle ie it measures the change in capicitance of the soil depending on the moisture
level, as there is a large difference in the dielectric constant of soil, air and water. The Environscan
measures the change in frequency response of the soil's capitance due to its soil moisture status.
The calibration curve is supposed to be universal, but there is some evidence that this is not so.
Care has to be taken in installation as air gaps can dramatically alter the response.
There is a similar instrument manufactured in the States. Hope this is a simple enough explanation.
Cheers
Tony M :-)
*****************************************************
* Tony Meissner *
* Senior Research Scientist (Soils) *
* Primary Industries, South Australia *
* PO Box 411, Loxton SA, Australia 5333 *
* Tel. 085 95 9146 *
* Fax: 085 95 9199 *
* email meissner.tony@pi.sa.gov.au *
*********************************************************
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Fri Sep 15 02:26 EDT 1995
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 1995 01:17:59 -0500
Message-Id: <199509150617.AA06943@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 297
Contents:
Re: Environscan? - Reply (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
Re: Environscan? Contacts (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
Re: Environscan? Contacts (BRASERJ@aol.com)
EnviroSCAN - Calibration (Gabriel Levy <100237.1224@compuserve.com>)
ENVIROSCAN (evan@griffith.dwr.csiro.au (Evan Christen))
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 19:11:29 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Environscan? - Reply
>The Environscan is a soil moisture measuring instrument developed in
Australia. It works on the
>capacitance principle ie it measures the change in capicitance of the soil
depending on the moisture
>level, as there is a large difference in the dielectric constant of soil,
air and water. The Environscan
>measures the change in frequency response of the soil's capitance due to
its soil moisture status.
>The calibration curve is supposed to be universal, but there is some
evidence that this is not so.
>Care has to be taken in installation as air gaps can dramatically alter the
response.
>
>There is a similar instrument manufactured in the States. Hope this is a
simple enough explanation.
>
>Cheers
>Tony M :-)
>*****************************************************
>* Tony Meissner *
>* Senior Research Scientist (Soils) *
>* Primary Industries, South Australia *
>* PO Box 411, Loxton SA, Australia 5333 *
>* Tel. 085 95 9146 *
>* Fax: 085 95 9199 *
>* email meissner.tony@pi.sa.gov.au *
>*********************************************************
>
>
Tony,
Please explain why the calibration curve use for the Enviroscan is not
universal.
Could you quote me your source &/or evidence that it is not so??
Cheers Peter M.
_____________________________________________________________
Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
Agrilink
P.O. Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: 09 275 9990
Fax: 09 275 9991
_____________________________________________________________
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 19:33:49 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Environscan? Contacts
> Can someone briefly describe the Environscan soil moisture
>monitoring system?
>
>Thanks,
>C. Storlie
>
>
>
If you require detailed information regarding the Enviroscan Soil Moisture
Monitoring System, contact the manufacturer:
Sentek
Ric Gatto
69 King William St
Kent Town
South Australia 5067
Tel: + 61 8 363 0839
Fax: + 61 8 362 8400
Regards Peter Moller
____________________________________
Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
Agrilink
P.O. Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: + 61 9 275 9990
Fax: + 61 9 275 9991
___________________________________
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 1995 09:19:36 -0400
From: BRASERJ@aol.com
Subject: Re: Environscan? Contacts
In a message dated 95-09-14 07:40:37 EDT, you write:
>
>
I have an irrigation management company and have been in providing irrigation
services to growers in the San Joaquine Valley of California. We currently
use ET modeling to schedule field crops and neutron probes for trees and
vines. I have used almost every technology available during the past 20
years including tensiometers, gypsum block, various ceramic cup type devices
measuring soil suction, IRTs, etc.
I have started to look at Enviroscan and the technology appears sound. The
keys to success is the frequent logging of soil moisture. The manufacture
has some really slick software from which you can analize soil moisture use
patterns. The equipment is though quite expensive.
Anyone who has practical, commericial experience?
Ron Brase
Crop Care Services
Fresno, California
Date: 15 Sep 95 02:07:32 EDT
From: Gabriel Levy <100237.1224@compuserve.com>
Subject: EnviroSCAN - Calibration
The calibration equation used in the software of the EnviroSCAN soil moisture
monitoring system is deemed "universal" as it has been generated using
calibration data obtained from varying soil types. This data was generated by
the CSIRO and Department of Agriculture in Australia and the United States
Department of Agriculture in California. This equation is supplied as the
default equation in the software and is more than adequate for the majority of
users that are using the data for irrigations scheduling purposes. There never
will be a soil moisture sensing system that would not require a calibration
process (destructive sampling) to be performed if the user requires accurate
absolute values on their particular soil type. The software provided with the
EnviroSCAN has the ability for the user to enter their own calibration
constants/equations.
Rick Gatto
Sentek Pty.Ltd.
69 King William St.
Kent Town
South Australia 5067
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 1995 01:10:35 -0500
From: evan@griffith.dwr.csiro.au (Evan Christen)
Subject: ENVIROSCAN
Regarding commercial application of the enviroscan:
We have used it in vineyards with trickle and flood irrigation.
Can set refill points by assessing the point of inflection on the soil
moisture depletion curve.
Can assess depth of water extraction = root zone depth.
Can assess water use as vines come out of dormancy, extraction patterns and
root development.
Most importantly it gives a real time assesment of the irrigation practice,
depth of wetting, water past the root zone and refill. It also helps to deal
with summer rainfall, was the rain effective?, to what depth.
the cost of 32 probes + logger + software is minimal compared to capital
investment in a vineyard
With current prices the cost would be returned with a 2 - 6 % increase in
yield in a 40 ha vineyard
The main drawback is a: maximum 8 sites per logger, finding representative
sites in vineyard. however the cost of the access tube is minimal thus many
can be installed and the probes moved around. The problem of tube
installation appears to be largely solved. Soils that display a large degree
of swell/shrink could be a problem if allowed to dry down to shrinkage
limits. We have such soils but high watertables rarely allow excessive cracking.
Evan Christen
Irrigation and Drainage Management for Horticulture
CSIRO Division of Water Resources
Griffith Laboratory
Griffith
NSW 2680
Australia
Fax # 61 69 601600
"Errare Humanum Est" J.C. 50 B.C.
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Sat Sep 16 02:28 EDT 1995
Date: Sat, 16 Sep 1995 01:18:09 -0500
Message-Id: <199509160618.AA03339@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 298
Contents:
Re: ENVIROSCAN (GrapeGrowr@aol.com)
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 1995 14:34:31 -0400
From: GrapeGrowr@aol.com
Subject: Re: ENVIROSCAN
When you speak of costs, could you be more specific. Even Ball park numbers
would be helpful.
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Sun Sep 17 06:28 EST 1995
Date: Sun, 17 Sep 1995 01:18:11 -0500
Message-Id: <199509170618.AA13814@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 299
Contents:
Re: EnviroSCAN - Calibration (sjordan@seldon.terminus.com (Steve Jordan))
Re: Environscan? Contacts (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 1995 23:50:02 +0000
From: sjordan@seldon.terminus.com (Steve Jordan)
Subject: Re: EnviroSCAN - Calibration
>
>The calibration equation used in the software of the EnviroSCAN soil moisture
>monitoring system is deemed "universal" as it has been generated using
....
Is that similar in function to the Troxler unit?
Steve Jordan @ Second Foundation
Date: Sun, 17 Sep 1995 07:01:34 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Environscan? Contacts
>In a message dated 95-09-14 07:40:37 EDT, you write:
>
>>
>>
>
>I have an irrigation management company and have been in providing irrigation
>services to growers in the San Joaquine Valley of California. We currently
>use ET modeling to schedule field crops and neutron probes for trees and
>vines. I have used almost every technology available during the past 20
>years including tensiometers, gypsum block, various ceramic cup type devices
>measuring soil suction, IRTs, etc.
>
>I have started to look at Enviroscan and the technology appears sound. The
>keys to success is the frequent logging of soil moisture. The manufacture
>has some really slick software from which you can analize soil moisture use
>patterns. The equipment is though quite expensive.
>
>Anyone who has practical, commericial experience?
>
>Ron Brase
>Crop Care Services
>Fresno, California
>
>
Dear Ron,
I provide a water management service to irrigation managers in Western
Australia to a range of horticulture crops, turf and effulent disposal
systems. I phased out the neutron probe 4 years ago and now utilise the
Enviroscan Soil Moisture Monitoring System. It provides a richer picture of
what is happening in the soil profile both in the root zone & below due to
its ability to continously log soil moisture. Irrigation agronomists
Australia wide have installed over 300 systems of the latest version (RT5)
over the last 18 months and have plenty of commerical experience
demonstrating that the economic benifits far out way the capital cost. We
have done cost analysis to compare the three year cost of a range of soil
measuring devices & find that the Enviroscan is in the same cost bracket.
My business has changed since providing a neutron probe service in 1990 with
a small group of customers limited to one region, to a business that
utilises the Enviroscan with a broad range of customers spread 1000km north
of Perth to 500km south of Perth. I utilise remote downloading & modem for
data transfer & support whilst the soil moisture content is collected every
day (60 min intervals) on site.
If you need further info please contact:
Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
Agrilink
PO Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: + 61 9 275 9990
Fax: + 61 9 275 9991
Email: Agrilink@iinet.net.au
Regards Peter Moller.
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Tue Sep 19 16:49 EDT 1995
Date: Tue, 19 Sep 1995 15:41:32 -0500
Message-Id: <199509192041.AA00699@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 301
Contents:
Abstract # 6 (MEAD2513@aol.com)
Date: Tue, 19 Sep 1995 00:38:37 -0400
From: MEAD2513@aol.com
Subject: Abstract # 6
Sensors and automated irrigations have been previously discussed on Trickle-L
(circa April 1995). However, no mention of any particular research (i.e. in
abstract of the week format) has dealt with sensor actuated irrigation.
Presented below is abstract #6 which discusses the issue of tensiometer
actuated irrigations in apple orchards.
As stated back in April, > "Setting a clock timer is considered 'automated',
but doesn't allow for seasonal anomalies of climate. One could over irrigate
on a unseasonably cool day or under irrigate on a strange hot day". < The one
of the most effective ways to sense a need for irrigation is to monitor the
soil moisture status.
*****************************************************************
Soil Sensor Actuated Microirrigation of Apples
M. Meron, R. Assaf, B. Bravdo, R. Wallach, R. Hallel, A. Levin
and I. Dahan
A field experiment was initiated in 1992, at Matityahu Hort. Exp.
Farm, near Baram, Israel, to develop and test a soil sensor-
actuated automatic irrigation system and to optimize sensor
actuation thresholds for fruit yield and quality. Evaluation of
the effect of wetted soil volumes on water use, fertility and
vigor of apple orchards was a secondary objective. Irrigation was
applied through one or two drip laterals per row, or by one
mini- sprinkler per tree, each arrangement doubling the wetted
soil volume from the previous one. Analog output
transducer-equipped tensiometers actuated irrigation at preset
thresholds of 15, 25, and 35 kPa (.15, .25 and .35 bar) soil water tensions*,
and stopped irrigation when tension dropped to 10 kPa (.10 bar) at 0.4 m (16
in.)
depth, thus eliminating deep percolation. The control system operated as
predicted by initial simulation and the feasibility of the
concept was demonstrated.
Highest yields** were achieved at 25 kPa (.25 bar) soil water tension
actuation, applying 450-550 mm (18-22 in.) water. Lower tension thresholds of
15 kPa (.15 bar), with 650-750 mm (26-30 in.) water applied, did not raise
yields but increased fruit size and trunk growth. High thresholds of 35 kPa
(.35 bar)
with only 350 mm (14 in.) water, decreased both yield and vegetative
indicators.
Mini-sprinklers used considerably more water than drippers.*** No
recognizable differences in water use were found between single
and double drip lines per row.
More experimentation will be needed to ensure that the optimal
threshold (25 kPa or .25 bar) treatment, will maintain high yields, without
negatively effecting orchard vigor and longevity.
Keywords: Irrigation control, Automation, Soil suction, Threshold
limits, Water use efficiency
Additional information:
Soil type was stony, brown clay loam. Tensiometers were placed .3m (12 in.)
tangential to drip emitter pattern and 0.6m (24 in.) diagonally from the
center of mini-sprinkler pattern at maximum irrigation intensity. The tension
from the tensiometers were monitored by the minute. The monitoring was done
using a Campbell Scientific 21x micrologger-controller.
*Note: An increase in soil tension is associated with decreasing thickness of
hydration which surrounds the soil-particle surface...thus increasing tension
is associated with decreasing soil moisture
** 4-5.1 kg/m2 or 17.8-22.7 tons/acre
***According to my calculations, 222 mm or 8.7 in. on average.
Abstract taken from paper found on pages 486 to 491 in Proceedings of 5th
International Microirrigation Congress, April 2-6, 1995, Orlando, Florida.
American Society of Agricultural Engineers, 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph,
Michigan 49085-9659, USA. Phone: 616-429- 0300 FAX: 616-429-3852 EMAIL:
HQ@ASAE.ORG
Richard Mead
Trickle-L owner/manager
USDA-ARS-WMRL
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Tue Sep 19 16:49 EDT 1995
Date: Tue, 19 Sep 1995 15:41:32 -0500
Message-Id: <199509192041.AA00699@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 301
Contents:
Abstract # 6 (MEAD2513@aol.com)
Date: Tue, 19 Sep 1995 00:38:37 -0400
From: MEAD2513@aol.com
Subject: Abstract # 6
Sensors and automated irrigations have been previously discussed on Trickle-L
(circa April 1995). However, no mention of any particular research (i.e. in
abstract of the week format) has dealt with sensor actuated irrigation.
Presented below is abstract #6 which discusses the issue of tensiometer
actuated irrigations in apple orchards.
As stated back in April, > "Setting a clock timer is considered 'automated',
but doesn't allow for seasonal anomalies of climate. One could over irrigate
on a unseasonably cool day or under irrigate on a strange hot day". < The one
of the most effective ways to sense a need for irrigation is to monitor the
soil moisture status.
*****************************************************************
Soil Sensor Actuated Microirrigation of Apples
M. Meron, R. Assaf, B. Bravdo, R. Wallach, R. Hallel, A. Levin
and I. Dahan
A field experiment was initiated in 1992, at Matityahu Hort. Exp.
Farm, near Baram, Israel, to develop and test a soil sensor-
actuated automatic irrigation system and to optimize sensor
actuation thresholds for fruit yield and quality. Evaluation of
the effect of wetted soil volumes on water use, fertility and
vigor of apple orchards was a secondary objective. Irrigation was
applied through one or two drip laterals per row, or by one
mini- sprinkler per tree, each arrangement doubling the wetted
soil volume from the previous one. Analog output
transducer-equipped tensiometers actuated irrigation at preset
thresholds of 15, 25, and 35 kPa (.15, .25 and .35 bar) soil water tensions*,
and stopped irrigation when tension dropped to 10 kPa (.10 bar) at 0.4 m (16
in.)
depth, thus eliminating deep percolation. The control system operated as
predicted by initial simulation and the feasibility of the
concept was demonstrated.
Highest yields** were achieved at 25 kPa (.25 bar) soil water tension
actuation, applying 450-550 mm (18-22 in.) water. Lower tension thresholds of
15 kPa (.15 bar), with 650-750 mm (26-30 in.) water applied, did not raise
yields but increased fruit size and trunk growth. High thresholds of 35 kPa
(.35 bar)
with only 350 mm (14 in.) water, decreased both yield and vegetative
indicators.
Mini-sprinklers used considerably more water than drippers.*** No
recognizable differences in water use were found between single
and double drip lines per row.
More experimentation will be needed to ensure that the optimal
threshold (25 kPa or .25 bar) treatment, will maintain high yields, without
negatively effecting orchard vigor and longevity.
Keywords: Irrigation control, Automation, Soil suction, Threshold
limits, Water use efficiency
Additional information:
Soil type was stony, brown clay loam. Tensiometers were placed .3m (12 in.)
tangential to drip emitter pattern and 0.6m (24 in.) diagonally from the
center of mini-sprinkler pattern at maximum irrigation intensity. The tension
from the tensiometers were monitored by the minute. The monitoring was done
using a Campbell Scientific 21x micrologger-controller.
*Note: An increase in soil tension is associated with decreasing thickness of
hydration which surrounds the soil-particle surface...thus increasing tension
is associated with decreasing soil moisture
** 4-5.1 kg/m2 or 17.8-22.7 tons/acre
***According to my calculations, 222 mm or 8.7 in. on average.
Abstract taken from paper found on pages 486 to 491 in Proceedings of 5th
International Microirrigation Congress, April 2-6, 1995, Orlando, Florida.
American Society of Agricultural Engineers, 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph,
Michigan 49085-9659, USA. Phone: 616-429- 0300 FAX: 616-429-3852 EMAIL:
HQ@ASAE.ORG
Richard Mead
Trickle-L owner/manager
USDA-ARS-WMRL
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Wed Sep 20 16:52 EDT 1995
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 1995 15:41:58 -0500
Message-Id: <199509202041.AA25408@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 302
Contents:
Re: Enviroscan info, Attn Scott Good (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
Re: Enviroscan info required-Ed Biel (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
Re: Enviroscan. Attn: Dennis Roll (agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller))
IAA Conference - Australia (meissner.tony@wpo.pi.sa.gov.au)
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 1995 14:46:51 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Enviroscan info, Attn Scott Good
>
>Peter, could you please send me some information on the Enviroscan Soil
>Moisture Monitoring System........
>Thank you.
>Scott Good
>
>
>Scott M Good
>6341 Wiley ST
>Hollywood, Florida, USA 33023
>
>E-mail: Scottgood@aol.com
>
>
_________________________________________
Scott,
Thanks for for enquiry. I will post detailed info to you regarding the
Enviroscan specifications and also a copy of two technical papers, one
presented at the Irrigation Assoc., of Australia's national conferance in
1994, outlining a case study of the economic benefits of irrigation
scheduling of russet burbank potatoes.This was using the Enviroscan to
collect continous soil moisture data & a water management service to provide
the grower with agronomic support.
The second paper outlines a case study of continous soil moisture monitoring
in hardwood plantations irrigated with secondary treated effluent.
Agrilink provides an integrated approach to water management in horticulture
in Western Australia. The main areas are soils, irrigation system
infrastructure & irrigation scheduling.
Soils:
a proposed irrigation development is soil mapped according to the soils
water holding capacity. Soils with the same RAW value (readily available
water) are grouped together to form a management unit. This is calcualted by
adding up the millimetres of readily available water in each textural layer
in the potential rootzone. A irrigation management plan is the outcome of
this process which directly influences irrigation system design, farm layout
(wind breaks, sheds), root stock &/or variety selection.
Irrigation system infrastructure:
the irrigation system must then be designed so as to deliver water to each
management unit as defined in the soil mapping process, independently to the
other units. This requires innnovative design which has a flexible control
system to turn each management unit on at the demand of the crop & a pump
system that can handle a range of flow rates from small to large units at
one time. The system must also be uniform in application of water across
the management unit. This is very important if regulated deficit irrigation
(RDI) is being used to control vegetative growth.
Scheduling:
Once the soils have been grouped & an irrigation system has been designed
based on the soil data then effective irrigation scheduling can occur. My
customers purchase the Enviroscan & I install it. I use this system to
collect the soil mositure data, as it is in situ which saves me &/or the
grower time & money in data collection, it provides a richer picture as it
is continous (every hour) and the software is easy to use so as to interpret
the data to understand the crop water use, stress, water logging, depth of
irrigation etc.
The benefits my customers are getting are improved efficiency with the use
of water, power, & fertilizer, improved quality (larger friut size, minimal
variation), improved yield & a more sustainable production system (reduction
in leaching of water & fertilizer).
The benefits are the result of being able to manage the soil moisture in the
rootzone with accurate info and making the right decision to irrigate based
on the actual crop's water requirements.
For further information on the Enviroscan Soil Moisture Monitoring System
contact the manufacturer:
Ric Gatto
Sentek
69 King William St
Kent Town
South Australia 5067
Tel: + 61 8 363 0839
Fax: + 61 8 362 8400
Email: 100237.1224@compuserve.com
Regards Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
_______________________________
Agrilink
P.O. Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: + 61 9 275 9990
Fax: + 61 9 275 9991
Email: agrilink@iinet.net.au
________________________________
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 1995 15:01:04 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Enviroscan info required-Ed Biel
>Peter Moller
>Agrilink
>
>I have been watching with interest the discussion on Trickle-List re the
>Enviroscan soil water monitoring equipment. Where can I get more info here in
>N.S.W? What is the cost of the equipment? Is it suitable for smaller
>orchard holdings? We presently use teneiometers to monitor soil moisture and
>schedule irrigations - low initial cost but is info really sound.
>
>Looking forward to hearing from you on this.
>
>
>Regards, Ed
>
>________________________________________________________
>
>Edward Biel. | WANAKA ORCHARD
> | 'High Marlowe'
>E-mail: ebiel@tpgi.com.au | 70 Old Jerusalem Road.
> | Oakdale.
>Phone/Fax: 011 61 46 596254 | New South Wales.
> | AUSTRALIA.
>
> GROWERS OF HIGH QUALITY POME AND STONE FRUIT
>________________________________________________________
>
>
Dear Edward,
Thanks for your enquiry. Across Australia a range of crops over a range of
soil types are monitored using the Enviroscan Soil Moisture Monitoring
System. Also I have a wide range of production units in Western Australia
using the Enviroscan from 10 hectares (potatoes) through 350 hectares of
drip irrigation (effulent disposal on wooded treelot). If you contact the
manufacturer they will provide you with the contact details of the nearest
agronomist who can help to determine the system costings for your sized
production system.
For further information on the Enviroscan Soil Moisture Monitoring System
contact the manufacturer:
Ric Gatto
Sentek
69 King William St
Kent Town
South Australia 5067
Tel: + 61 8 363 0839
Fax: + 61 8 362 8400
Email: 100237.1224@compuserve.com
Regards Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
_______________________________
Agrilink
P.O. Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: + 61 9 275 9990
Fax: + 61 9 275 9991
Email: agrilink@iinet.net.au
________________________________
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 1995 16:01:09 +0800
From: agrilink@iinet.com.au (Peter Moller)
Subject: Re: Enviroscan. Attn: Dennis Roll
>I am an irrigation specialist (agronomist) with Alberta Agriculture at
>Strathmore, AB, Canada, and am interested in the "Enviroscan" equipment for
>determining soil moisture. We used to use neutron probes but have pretty
>well "retired" that equipment now.
>
>I would like to know how the Enviroscan equipment works, labor(time required)
>for reading, installing tubes, etc., prices, etc. Where can one obtain these
>commercially, i.e. who manufactures them? I would like to obtain some
>literature from the manufacturer of these. Any info you can e-mail would be
>appreciated. Thanks.-------------------------------------
>Name: Dennis Alexander Roll
>E-mail: rolld@cadvision.com
>Date: 03/02/95
>Time: 23:57:11
>
>...What goes around comes around....
>-------------------------------------
>
>
>
Dear Dennis,
Thanks for enquiry. It is good to hear from someone in Canada; I was born in
Hamilton Ontario but my parents moved back to Australia when I was three
years old!!
I've got the info you have requested, but it is not all on computer, so can
you email your postal address.
For further information on the Enviroscan Soil Moisture Monitoring System
contact the manufacturer:
Ric Gatto
Sentek
69 King William St
Kent Town
South Australia 5067
Tel: + 61 8 363 0839
Fax: + 61 8 362 8400
Email: 100237.1224@compuserve.com
Regards Peter Moller
Irrigation Agronomist
_______________________________
Agrilink
P.O. Box 260
Bassendean
Western Australia 6054
Tel: + 61 9 275 9990
Fax: + 61 9 275 9991
Email: agrilink@iinet.net.au
________________________________
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 1995 17:05:19 +0930
From: meissner.tony@wpo.pi.sa.gov.au
Subject: IAA Conference - Australia
Notice of Irrigation Association of Australia Conference 14-16 may, Adelaide Australia
AUSTRALIAN SOLUTIONS
The Irrigation Association of
Australia
is pleased to announce
IRRIGATION
AUSTRALIA
1996
conference
exhibition
When: May 14th-16th 1996
Where: Adelaide Convention Centre
Adelaide, South Australia
Irrigation Australia '96 Conference
Held at the same time as the Expo the Irrigation Australia '96 conference is on the theme of
"Australian Solutions".
The irrigation industry in Australia has been faced with a number of major challenges including
diminishing water supplies, competition for existing supplies, poor quality water, ageing
infrastructure and industry reform.
Irrigation Australia '96 is the chance for irrigation industry professionals to meet with their
colleagues from the region and share their experience and knowledge learned while developing
solutions.
The organising committee welcomes expressions of interest form potential delegates, speakers and
exhibitors, and from any party who would like to be included on the mailing list for Irrigation
Australia '96.
Enquiries can be made to:
Irrigation Australia '96
The Irrigation Association of Australia
PO Box 10006
Gouger Street
ADELAIDE
SOUTH AUSTRALIA 5000
Tel: 61 8 262 6311
Fax: 61 8 302 3373
Email: "sparrow.denis@pi.sa.gov.au"
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Thu Sep 21 16:50 EDT 1995
Date: Thu, 21 Sep 1995 15:42:52 -0500
Message-Id: <199509212042.AA24116@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 303
Contents:
Re: Capacitance probe discussion (MEAD2513@aol.com)
Re: Capacitance probe discussion (ScottGood@aol.com)
Date: Thu, 21 Sep 1995 00:46:24 -0400
From: MEAD2513@aol.com
Subject: Re: Capacitance probe discussion
Due to the recent discussion about the Sentek EnviroScan* capacitance probe
system, I thought it would be appropriate to discuss the Water Management
Research Lab's observations with Sentek* and Troxler* capacitance probes.
Both probes use a capacitance technique known as FDR (frequency domain
reflectometry).
Let me briefly discuss how a capacitance probe works (if you're rusty in
basic electronics, get out your physics book). A capacitance sensor consists
of a pair of electrodes (circular metal rings) connected to an oscillator.
When the probe is inserted into a PVC access tube installed in the field and
activated (using radio frequencies), the soil-water-air matrix around the PVC
tube forms the dielectric of a capacitor which then completes an oscillating
circuit. Changes in soil water content cause a shift in frequency.
Our lab first experimented with the Troxler Sentry* 200 AP capacitance probe.
It is a single probe/sensor portable unit, which hooks up to a multiplexer or
directly to a reading unit. Using field and boxed soil conditions we observed
the following:
a) It is extremely critical to have good sensor-tube-soil contact for
reliable estimation of soil moisture. When the soil was repacked in a boxed
condition (~ 1 meter cube.....~35 cubic ft.), better correlations were
obtained.
b) A linear calibration equation comparing frequencies vs. true volumetric
soil moisture status gave better results than factory or derived exponential
calibration equations.
c) True zone of influence readings did not begin until the probe was 30 cm (1
ft.) below the soil surface.
The Troxler Sentry 200 AP unit did not at that time (circa mid to late 1993)
have software for continuous datalogging. Hence, it was strictly a portable
unit, similar to a neutron probe whereby it is carried from probe tube to
probe tube for raw count readings.
If you want detailed information about the Troxler* probe, contact Troxler.*
I have heard through the rumor mill that the company has updated and improved
their system.
If you want detailed information concerning our results, send for the WMRL
paper entitled "Capacitance Probe Use in Soil Moisture Measurements" (Mead,
Paltineanu, Ayars and Liu). E-mail Paula Lynch at PLYNCH@CATI.CSUFRESNO.EDU
for paper requests.
About the time we were winding down our research with the Troxler* probe, we
obtained an Sentek EnviroScan* RT5 system. The Sentek Enviroscan* RT5
system is not portable but is installed as an array of probes connected to a
self contained datalogger. Each probe can attach up to 8 sensors in 10 cm (4
in.) intervals. Our initial and eventual goal was to install these probes in
our monolith lysimeters which focus on shallow saline water table
contributions to the crop root system. While the lysimeters were being
constructed, we evaluated the Sentek* probes for measurement in different
soil textures, bulk densities and soil water salinity. The Sentek* system
uses a unique calibration setup system whereby raw readings are taken in air
(Fa) and in a water basket (Fw). Sentek* defines this initial setup as
'Universal Frequency' (UF) as [Fa-F/Fa-Fw]. It is basically a ratio of the
extremes of air and water sensor readings with an actual soil reading thrown
in the numerator.
Making a long story short, we found the following:
a) There was a positive correlation between the UF and true soil volumetric
water content in three soil types and 4 bulk densities, albeit significant
differences occurred between the soil types and densities.
b) There was some curvature in the calibration equations for clay and sandy
loam soils, but only when quadratic regressions were derived.
c) As soil salinity increased, sensor moisture values were positively skewed
(looked wetter). After salinity levels of 15.4 ECe, the skewed values
leveled off. We found that using saline water in the Fw (water basket) setup
procedure seemed to lower the skewed values.
Our studies imply that there is good volumetric soil moisture measurement
using this system, yet site specific calibrations will have to be performed
for the most precise measurements. "Wetter" than normal readings might occur
from the probes when installed in saline environments.
There is concern about shrink/swell soils (2:1 expanding clays) creating air
gaps near or cracks adjacent to the access tube. According to Sentek*, there
is a slurry recipe that involves a mixture of cement, kaolinite and water in
certain ratios that is poured into the augured hole prior to access just tube
installation. We have yet to try this technique.
If you want more detailed information about the EnviroScan* RT5 system,
contact Sentek.* If you want detailed information concerning our results,
send for the WMRL paper entitled "Evaluating the Influence of Soil Texture,
Bulk Density and Soil water salinity on a Capacitance Probe Calibration"
(Mead, Ayars and Liu). Again, contact Paula at PLYNCH@CATI.CSUFRESNO.EDU .
The obvious advantages of 'both' FDR capacitance probes are:
1) Relinquished radioactive hassles (both regulation and exposure).
2) Lack of random counting error and quick response in readings.
3) Relatively light weight.
4) Good accuracy as long as there is good soil-tube contact and relatively
low saline conditions.
5) The potential to continuously monitor a soil profile (permanent
installation).
6) Access tube installation time is equivalent to neutron probe tube
installation.
Stay tuned to Trickle-L for future discussion of TDR (Time Domain
Reflectometry) probes.
Richard Mead
Soil Scientist
USDA-ARS-WMRL
Trickle-L owner/manager
*The USDA-ARS does not endorse the product name, but only uses it for
descriptive terminology for the benefit of the reader.
Date: Thu, 21 Sep 1995 15:38:43 -0400
From: ScottGood@aol.com
Subject: Re: Capacitance probe discussion
Richard,
Thanks for the tech primer on FRD's and the references for more info.
Scott Good
Scottgood@aol.com
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Mon Sep 25 01:55 EDT 1995
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 1995 00:44:14 -0500
Message-Id: <199509250544.AA16445@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 304
Contents:
EnviroSCAN Info (Gabriel Levy <100237.1224@compuserve.com>)
Date: 25 Sep 95 00:29:32 EDT
From: Gabriel Levy <100237.1224@compuserve.com>
Subject: EnviroSCAN Info
Due to the interest in EnviroSCAN I have provided the following basic
information.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
*******************
How does EnviroSCAN work?
-------------------------
EnviroSCAN combines state of the art electronics and software in a system that
is simple to learn and practical to use.
A solar powered, central logging facility is connected by cable to probes at
each monitoring site.
Probes can be located by cable runs up to 500 metres from the logger.
Standard length probes of 0.5 metres are used for shallow rooted crops or turf
while 1, 1.5 or 2 metre probes are used for tree crops, vines and broadacre
crops such as cotton.
In research, waste water management, environmental and mining applications
probes of longer lengths such as 5, 10 or 15 metres are used. By contrast, in
hydroponic and nursery applications, probes as short as 10 or 20cm are used.
Each probe can be fitted with multiple sensors. The sensors snap on to the
probe with slots provided every 10 centimetres allowing the user to specify the
sensor depths.
Up to 32 sensors are supported by 1 logger on 2 cable runs of up to 16 sensors
with up to 4 probes on each cable run in any configuration.
The sensors utilise electrical capacitance to measure soil moisture. The
capacitance field generated between the two metal plates of the sensor extends
beyond the PVC access tube into the surrounding soil. The capacitance field is
affected by the dielectric constant of the material the field passes through.
The dielectric of soil, regardless of whether it is sand, loam or clay, is
relatively constant ranging from 3 to 6 while air is 1 and water is 80.
Soil moisture is determined by the change in the amount of air and water in the
soil structure. This changes with rainfall, irrigation, drainage, evaporation
and crop water use.
Using capacitance the changing ratio of air and water at each soil depth can be
measured very quickly and accurately.
The sensor readings are converted to volumetric soil water content using a
default calibration equation in the software that takes into account the varying
soil types. This calibration was established using gravimetric sampling which is
the international standard used to calibrate methods such as the Neutron Probe.
Data can be logged at intervals as short as every one minute and is downloaded
to a computer for display. In sandy soils and vegetable crops it is usual to
log at 10 minute intervals while in heavy soils and tree crops and vines it is
usual to log at 15 to 30 minute intervals. Data is displayed in easy to read
graphs allowing growers to make quick decisions about when to irrigate and how
long to irrigate.
EnviroSCAN has been extensively field tested with over 500 systems installed
Australia wide.
Independent testing by CSIRO, Department of Agriculture and Research groups have
confirmed the accuracy and reliability of the information provided by
EnviroSCAN.
MARKET INFORMATION
******************
Who Uses EnviroSCAN?
--------------------
EnviroSCAN is currently in use in the following crop types:
Almonds
Apples
Apricots
Artichokes
Asparagus
Avocados
Bananas
Berries
Broccoli
Brussell Sprouts
Capsicums
Carrots
Cashews
Celery
Cherries
Citrus - Orange, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin
Cotton
Cucumber
Eggplant
Flowers
Grapes - Nursery, Table, Wine
Hops
Lettuce
Lychees
Macadamias
Mangos
Onions
Pasture
Peaches
Pears
Peas
Potatoes
Pistachio Nuts
Plums
Rockmelons
Snow Peas
Strawberries
Sugarcane
Sweetcorn
Tomatoes - Field, Hydroponic
Turf
Watermelon
Woodlots
Waste Water Applications
Mining Applications
Hydroponics and Nurseries
Growers, Grower Groups, Corporate Growers
Government Departments (CSIRO, DPI, etc)
Researchers, Consultants
EnviroSCAN is suitable for use in all common soil types from course sand to
cracking clay and will work in all soil moisture ranges from saturated to powder
dry.
DISTRIBUTION
************
The following are distributors of the EnviroSCAN and their contact details.
AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTORS
-----------------------
Northern Queensland
Piccone Horticultural
Ask for Marie Piccone
Phone: 071 254 955
Fax: 071 254 961
Southern Queensland
Crop Tech Research
Ask for John Hall
Phone: 071 597 433
Fax: 071 597 470
Northern Rivers
Hortech Services
Ask for Peter Broomhall
Phone: 07 204 4521
Fax: 07 886 0389
Central Northern NSW
McGregor Gourlay
Ask for Paul Castor
Phone: 067 524 122
Fax: 067 525 025
Central NSW/Hunter Valley
Hacom Pty Ltd
Ask for Warwick Harrison
Phone: 063 640 257
Fax: 063 640 268
MIA / Griffith
Quiprite Pty Ltd
Ask for Andrew McLennan
Phone: 069 623 766
Fax: 069 624 458
Northern Victoria
Soil Moisture Monitoring Svcs
Ask for Adrian Orloff
Phone: 058 219 069
Fax: 058 219 079
Southern Victoria
Irritech Management Svcs
Ask for Graham Palmer
Phone: 059 896 216
Fax: 059 896 086
Tasmania
Serve-Ag Pty Ltd
Ask for Peter Rand
Phone: 004 270 800
Fax: 004 270 801
South Australia / Sunraysia
Yandilla Park Services
Ask for Trevor Sluggett
Phone: 085 861 200
Fax: 085 851 394
Western Australia
Agrilink Technology
Ask for Peter Moller
Phone: 09 275 9990
Fax: 09 275 9991
Email: agrilink@iinet.net.au
Northern Territory
Darwin Irrigation Supplies
Ask for Brian Hood
Phone: 089 411 955
Fax: 089 811 161
CALIFORNIA - USA
----------------
Handley Irrigation
Ask for Dale Handley
Phone: 209 798 2184
Fax: 209 798 2184
E-Mail: 71242.2636@compuserve.com
Sentek is seeking distributors in other countries including Israel, South
Africa, South America, New Zealand and Europe. Distributors are typically
agronomic consultancy companies that provide an irrigation scheduling service
(usually utilising the Neutron Probe) and maintain high credibility in their
geographic area. The infrequency of data combined with the high cost of
operating the Neutron Probe are the main reasons these companies are seeking
alternate technologies to enable them to provide a service which is more
economically viable at the same time providing real time agronomically credible
data.
PRICING
*******
Pricing on the EnviroSCAN systems varies greatly dependent upon property size,
crop type, soil type, etc. For general information purposes a basic system
comprising 2 x 0.5 metre probes and 8 x sensors would cost approximately
US$6,000 whereas as an 8 x 1.5 metre probe, 32 sensor system would cost
approximately US$15,000. For a detailed quotation for your property/application
please contact your nearest distributor or Sentek.
GENERAL
*******
For further information please contact:
Manager/Product Development - Rick Gatto
Marketing/Distribution/Pricing - Nigel Robinson
Software - Gabriel Levy
Agronomy - Peter Buss
Sentek Pty Ltd, 69 King William Street, Kent Town SA 5067, Australia
Phone +61 8 363 0839
Fax +61 8 362 8400
E-Mail 100237.1224@compuserve.com.
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Tue Sep 26 01:55 EDT 1995
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 1995 00:45:09 -0500
Message-Id: <199509260545.AA09260@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 305
Contents:
unsubscribe (lowell@CyberGate.COM (Lowell Zelinski))
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 1995 15:27:25 GMT
From: lowell@CyberGate.COM (Lowell Zelinski)
Subject: unsubscribe
unsubscribe
What a long strange trip its been!
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Wed Sep 27 01:57 EDT 1995
Date: Wed, 27 Sep 1995 00:46:02 -0500
Message-Id: <199509270546.AA00449@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 306
Contents:
Any openings for an irrigation engineer in West Texas / Eastern NM ? (Merriott@aol.com)
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 1995 20:45:30 -0400
From: Merriott@aol.com
Subject: Any openings for an irrigation engineer in West Texas / Eastern NM ?
I previously posted the following message. I will be in West Texas / Eastern
NM / Oklahoma during the week of Oct 2-6 and would like to interview with
those in the area who might be in need of my skills either now or in the near
future.
Will be checking messages and E-mail on a regular basis.
Thanks,
Randall Merriott
Anyone know of an opening for an irrigation engineer? B.S. Ag Engineering,
EIT, Irrigation Association Drip/Micro CID. Four years design experience.
Creative, hard-working, dependable, team player. Ten years of computer
experience. Likes working in the field and getting hands dirty. Willing to
relocate. Especially interested in opportunities that would involve overseas
travel.
For full resume send E-mail to Merriott@aol.com or call 407-770-2056.
Thanks, Randall Merriott
End of Digest
************************
From root@crcnis1.unl.edu Sat Sep 30 07:41 EDT 1995
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 1995 06:01:32 -0500
Message-Id: <199509301101.AA13018@crcnis1.unl.edu>
Errors-To: rmead@asrr.arsusda.gov
Reply-To: <trickle-l@unl.edu>
To: Multiple recipients of list <trickle-l@unl.edu>
Subject: TRICKLE-L digest 307
Contents:
Re: EnviroSCAN Info (LodiCraig@aol.com)
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 1995 06:18:19 -0400
From: LodiCraig@aol.com
Subject: Re: EnviroSCAN Info
In a message dated 95-09-25 01:37:22 EDT, you write:
Over the past few years I have become very reliant upon neutron probe data.
Looking at the grapevines and kneading the soil is good only to a point ...
but only with accurate soil moisture data can I anticipate how the vine will
respond to changing weather conditions. Not only do I want to confirm that
field capacity has actually been reached in spring (or determine a saturated
condition if it exists), but also must manage our grapes in a fairly tight
range of high 'water deficiency' as we approach harvest. Thus I desire
fairly high volumetric accuracy over a wide range.
>How does EnviroSCAN work?
>Using capacitance the changing ratio of air and water at each soil depth can
be
>measured very quickly and accurately.
>
I have completely oriented my thinking and decision criteria around neutron
probe results ... specifically water status in terms of inches water per foot
of soil.
How accurately and repeatably can EnviroSCAN compare to neutron probe data?
Does it provide equivalent information? Through what range of moisture
does EnviroScan maintain its accuracy?
End of Digest
************************
Prepared by Steve Modena, AB4EL.
Comments and suggestions to: modena@SunSITE.unc.edu