A detailed design of the necessary pumps, pipes, valves, and emitters must be developed by an irrigation professional. Because irrigation systems are not commonplace in Ohio, finding the right professional may be a challenge. The Irrigation Association offers training and certifications for irrigation designers, contractors, and water auditors and also provides a list of certified irrigation system designers. Companies that sell irrigation systems may also provide design services. See the references in this bulletin for the addresses and phone numbers of the ASAE and the Irrigation Association.
Sprinkler systems are the most common.
They work on slopes with up to 30 percent grade and are not limited by wastewater quality. All types of crops can be irrigated using sprinkler systems. Some limitations to the use of sprinkler systems are the purchase, placement costs, and field space for the equipment. Uncultivated tracks must be maintained for traveling systems. Field operations must maneuver around solid set systems.