Flushing of a drip tape lateral Photo: L. SchwanklPeriodic flushing is required to prevent clogging from sediments, particularly along the lower part of the drip line. A 200-mesh filter will not remove particles of fine sand, silt, and clay or fine particles of algae.
Storage reservoir with organic contamination Photo: L. SchwanklBiological growths in drip lines and emitters can be a serious problem when the irrigation water contains organic sediments, iron, or hydrogen sulfide. The primary contributors to biological growths are algae and bacteria.
Double-venturi injection system Photo: L. SchwanklTreating irrigation water with a biocide will minimize the growth of organic contaminants and often destroy the organic material, minimizing the clogging hazard. Three biocide methods are commonly used to treat irrigation water.
Venturi injector with small pump. Photo: L. SchwanklChlorine is often added to irrigation water to oxidize and destroy biological microorganisms such as algae, fungi, and bacteria.
Storage reservoir with heavy biological growth. Photo: L. Schwankl Copper-based biocides are very effective at controlling biological contaminants in water, and are most often used to control algae and other organisms in irrigation ponds and reservoirs.
