City of Glen Eira - Using real time soil moisture and meteorological sensor data for Sport field irrigation control and management.

The City of Glen Eira, situated in the inner South East of Melbourne, has installed a network of 32 x Aquaflex soil moisture sensors plus 8 x meteorological stations across the Municipality. The sensors have been integrated into the existing radio based Motorola Irrigation Control system. All data, real time and historical, is readily accessed at the base control computer. The soil moisture sensors have been located near the centre wicket area at each oval in the root zone, and give a real time trace of soil moisture expressed as % Volumetric Moisture Content. This helps optimise irrigation scheduling, plus to control irrigation when the root zone reaches the desired moisture content.

The Metrological sensors – wind speed & direction and tipping bucket raingauge provide local weather data that is used to prevent inappropriate use of sprinklers depending on local conditions. This leads to more efficient use of water and reduces resident complaints. A full weather station is also used at the base to provide additional information on evaporation and solar radiation. By using real time information from each individual site, water can be used more efficiently rather than rely on generalised weather data that is not site specific. For further information contact Mr Tony Jarvis on 0429 426688

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