The Mission of The Palm Beach Mobile Irrigation
Laboratory (MIL) is to educate homeowners and system operators to
maximize the efficiency of their irrigation systems,
while providing
a foundation for protecting water quality and quantity in our area.
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David DeMaio (MIL Project
Manager) works with the home owner to solve common problems |
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The lab conducts a series of
tests to check the distribution uniformity and the application
rates. |
How can the Mobile Irrigation Laboratory help?
The more efficiently irrigation water is applied
the less time it takes. By measuring the system uniformity, flow
rates, pressure, and evaluating the soil conditions the MIL operator
can work with the homeowner to solve common problems. All
evaluations are summarized in a detailed report sent to each
homeowner or property manager.
How do I get a free evaluation of my
irrigation system?
Simple, just contact us. The only requirement is
that you reside in Palm Beach County and your property is less than
ten acres. Schools, businesses and private homes can all take
advantage of our services whether your system runs on costly city
water, a well or lake.
Why Conserve Water?
With an exploding population and limited water
supply it is essential that we save now, for future generations, and
preserve our fragile ecosystems. In addittion it's more economical
to save now rather than search for alternative sources later, when
we face the possibilities of rising prices and greater restrictions.
How is the Mobile Irrigation Laboratory
Funded?
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD)
funds the Mobile Irrigation Laboratory with technical support from
USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service.
How much water can I save?
The Palm Beach MIL has conducted over
1140
evaluations since its inception in 1994 with potential water savings
reaching 276,681,672 gallons a year. That's an average of
242,703
gallons a week per property. Based on our follow up evaluation
data, actual water savings on average are about 92% of the potential
water savings.
Watering Tips
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Do not mow the lawn too short. The higher the blades of grass,
the deeper more extensive the root system will grow.
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Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation. Watering at
night might encourage fungus and disease development.
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Avoid over fertilization. Too much fertilizer will cause extra
stress on the lawn requiring additional water.
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Check your sprinklers once a month to ensure there are no leaks
and that all heads are adjusted properly.
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Mulch all landscaped areas to a depth of three inches to help
lock-in moisture and keep a more uniform soil temperature.
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