Given the water shortages experienced now and expected in the future, the use of recycled water for irrigation purposes is becoming an encouraged practice. There are however environmental and public health issues that need consideration before establishing such systems.
Simmonds & Bristow's laboratories are experienced in testing potential irrigation waters. Typical test parameters include but are not limited to:
- pH
- Conductivity
- Cations and anions (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, SO4)
- Sodium adsorption ratio
- Nutrient fractions (bio-available and organic)
- Biochemical oxygen demand
- Water chemistry parameters to determine corrosion and scaling properties
- Coliforms
- Metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni, Zn)
Results can be reviewed by our qualified consultants and comments made regarding the suitability of the water for irrigation purposes. Consideration is given to the plant health, soil structure degradation, soil contamination, groundwater contamination, and public health issues. Where extensive irrigation systems are required, water and nutrient balance modelling can be performed to ensure the sustainability of the system.