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<br />Attachment C <br /> <br />- Climate-based controllers are considered "smart controllers" and use the local environment <br />(including weather) to determine watering settings. <br /> <br />Sensor-based controllers are another type of "smart controller" that uses a sensor to determine if <br />the sprinkler system needs to run and for how long. They typically use a buried moisture sensor. <br />Sensor-based controllers can be added to existing sprinkler systems, with the moisture sensor <br />being added to a zone manifold's existing low voltage wiring. <br /> <br />. For a list of smart controllers tested by the Irrigation Association, go to <br />http://wWw. irrigation.org/S W AT /Industry/ia- tested.asp. <br />. For a comprehensive guide to planning, installing and operating a home or commercial <br />irrigation system, see the Irrigation Association's Best Management Practices for Turf and <br />Landscape at http://www.irrigation.org/gov/pdf/IA BMP APRIL 2005. <br /> <br />Irrigation Do's and Don'ts <br /> <br />Do: <br /> <br />Water after the sun has gone down to avoid evaporation. Set sprinklers to run between 7:00 P.M. <br />and 5:00 A.M <br />Use low angle sprinklers that create drops of water to avoid evaporation losses. . <br />Use proper water pressure to prevent.misting, which is the result of pressure being too high and <br />can lead to evaporative losses. <br />Use hydro zoning - watering needs grouped by types oflandscaping, lighting, and soils. <br />Adjust your watering schedule seasonally. Less in spring, fall and cooler weather. <br />Use a rain or moisture sensor to determine watering needs. <br />Use an in-line filter to prevent system clogs. <br />If supported, cycle the irrigation system - 4 minutes on, 4 minutes off, and repeat this cycle <br />three times. <br />Use native plants to reduce watering needs. <br />Use micro-irrigation techniques, such as drip, trickle, bubblers, and/or micro-spray jets and <br />sprinklers. <br />Consider allowing your grass to go dormant during drought conditions. Established grass <br />doesn't die during dormancy. <br />Use a backflow prevention valve to avoid contaminating drinking water supply (required in <br />Ramsey). <br />Hold onto the design layout so future projects do not lead to necessary system repairs due to <br />accidentally digging through water lines. <br /> <br />Don't: <br />Water too much. <br />Over- fertilize. <br />Use broken or impacted sprinklers. <br />Water hardscapes like driveways, sidewalks and building walls. <br /> <br />Optimal Irrigation <br /> <br />Some newer technologies offer more control, resulting in better results while using less water and <br />reducing operating costs. The use of smart controllers and drip irrigation offers promising benefits for <br />