The cost of drip irrigation systems is reasonable on wide-spaced crops such as trees. The closer the crop spacing, the higher the system cost is per acre. In a conventional row crop pattern, drip irrigation is about the most expensive system available. Selecting the right irrigation system for your farm is important. Be sure you understand all of the operating factors before you purchase a system.
Most system failures are as much a result of operator error as the system itself.
For assistance in selecting an irrigation system, contact your county agent, Soil Conservation Service, or consultants and dealers. Get as many ideas as possible from outside sources and do not be close-minded. The ideas and experiences of others are valuable. By James G. Thomas, Agricultural Engineer Mississippi State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran status. Publication 1508 Extension Service of Mississippi State University, cooperating with U.S. Department of Agriculture .