Kelly Kopp
Professor, Water Conservation and Turfgrass.
Department of Plants, Soils and Climate
Utah State University
Kelly Kopp is a Professor of Plants, Soils & Climate and Director of Utah State University’s Center for Water Efficient Landscaping. Her 25+ year career has been dedicated to researching landscape water conservation methods, plant water use requirements, sustainable turfgrass management, and irrigation technologies. She shares the results of this work extensively throughout the country with the goal of optimizing landscape water use efficiency while maintaining the quality-of-life benefits associated with healthy green spaces.
Q&A Topic: Overhead Irrigation can be Efficient Irrigation
Can I still maintain my lawn while using less water?
A: Yes! Have a professional audit your system or do a quick self-check: ensure sprinklers clear plants, aren’t spraying hardscape, and aren’t misting due to high pressure. Adjust accordingly to prevent waste.
How can I avoid being that neighbor with water running down the sidewalk?
A: Runoff usually comes from poorly adjusted heads, high pressure, or long runtimes. Fix it by adjusting heads to clear turf or plants, installing correct nozzles for the needed distance, and using “cycle and soak” watering to give the soil time to absorb water.
Are there any inherently efficient sprinklers I should use?
A: Yes, use pressure-regulated sprinkler bodies to optimize the pressure and flow from the nozzle. For efficient nozzles, high-efficiency spray nozzles provide improved coverage to traditional spray nozzles and multi-stream multi-trajectory nozzles (e.g., MP Rotator) apply water evenly and slowly, minimizing the chance of runoff.
Is there a way to effectively water narrow planter areas?
A: Use side strip or short-radius nozzles, available in spray or rotating multi-stream nozzles. Pair with pressure-regulated bodies for targeted watering and minimal overspray.
What are the benefits of overhead irrigation?
A: When done properly, overhead irrigation can mimic natural rainfall, providing even coverage with visual confirmation when running. While robust, overhead irrigation visually indicates a need for maintenance.
What are the benefits of drip irrigation?
A: Drip delivers water directly to plant roots, maximizing water efficiency. With proper scheduling, it supports plant health in dry climates.
When should I use one over the other?
A: It depends on plant type, landscape shape, and your preference. Both can be effective with proper scheduling and regular maintenance.
