Next-Gen Irrigation: Harnessing Technology for a Better Landscape, located in the TGI Product Knowledge Area’s Landscape and Irrigation Lab, must be registered for Education or Tradeshow Plus Pass to Attend and receive 4 hours of TCEQ CEUs. Presenter, Ramzi White, SiteOne Landscape Supply
Objectives for the class:
- Introduction to Smart Irrigation Systems
• Overview of Traditional vs. Modern Irrigation: Discuss the evolution from manual and stand-a-loan irrigation controllers to modern, tech-driven solutions.
• Benefits of Smart Irrigation: How technology helps improve water efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance landscape health. - Types of Advanced Irrigation Technologies
• Sprinkler Systems with Smart Controllers: Automatic adjustments based on weather conditions, soil moisture, and landscape needs.
• Soil Moisture Sensors: How these sensors measure and control the water levels, optimizing irrigation schedules.
• Climate-Based Irrigation Systems: Integration of local weather data to adjust watering based on temperature, humidity, and rainfall. - Water Management and Conservation
• Water Efficiency: The role of technology in maximizing the use of water resources, reducing runoff and evaporation.
• Sustainability and Resource Preservation: How smart irrigation technologies help conserve water and support sustainable landscaping practices.
• Water Stress Indicators: Identifying when a landscape needs water without over-watering or under-watering, using tech solutions. - Integration with IoT (Internet of Things)
• Connecting Systems for Full Automation: How IoT enables remote monitoring and control of irrigation systems from smartphones or computers.
• Data Analytics for Better Decision-Making: Using collected data from sensors and controllers to track performance, forecast needs, and make adjustments. - Cost-Effectiveness and ROI
• Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings: Discuss the upfront cost of implementing tech-driven irrigation systems and how they pay off over time with water savings and better plant growth.
• Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Tips for maintaining and optimizing high-tech systems, including common problems and solutions. - Hands-On Demonstration
• System Setup: Walkthrough of installing and configuring a smart irrigation system (drip, sprinkler, or sensors).
• Real-Time Data Collection: Demonstrate how data is collected and used for watering decisions.
• Adjustments Based on Conditions: Participants can practice adjusting systems based on weather forecasts, soil moisture, and landscape requirements. - Emerging Trends in Irrigation Technology
• AI and Machine Learning: How AI can predict water needs and automate the system’s learning process.
• Drones for Irrigation Monitoring: Using aerial technology to map irrigation needs and assess large landscapes. - Practical Applications for Different Landscapes
• Residential vs. Commercial Landscapes: Discuss the specific needs of different environments and how technology is tailored to each.
• Urban Landscapes and Green Spaces: Strategies for implementing smart irrigation in parks, urban gardens, and public spaces.