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Univ of MN Extension 2 <br />program the controller. For more information on conducting an irrigation audit, see <br />"Conducting and Irrigation Audit" noted at the end of this article. <br />5. Implement water saving technologies: Rain sensors connected to irrigation <br />controllers are good water -saving devices. Over the past decade, we have also <br />witnessed "smart" irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensors and more efficient <br />sprinklers. Smart irrigation controllers save water by automatically adjusting <br />irrigation programs based on water use estimates or stored historical data. <br />Additionally, inexpensive ($150 or less) soil moisture sensors can be purchased and <br />placed throughout the lawn. These sensors will not allow an irrigation system to run <br />if soil moisture levels are adequate. Many municipalities offer rebates (as much as <br />$250) for installing these smart irrigation devices on your home irrigation system. <br />6. Improve soils and lawn quality through good maintenance: Lawn care practices <br />have a direct impact on irrigation requirements. <br />High mowing heights (3 inches or greater) and <br />proper fertilizer use will improve lawn quality <br />and reduce irrigation requirements. Aeration <br />of a lawn followed by top -dressing with quality <br />compost can lessen compaction and add <br />organic matter to soil. This will improve water <br />infiltration in heavy soils as well as increase <br />moisture -holding capacity of sandy soils that <br />drain rapidly. <br />7. Recycle water when possible: Recycling <br />water for irrigation requires proper design of <br />water storage containment and separate <br />pumps to supply the water to irrigation <br />sprinklers. Professional contractors who have expertise in this area have designed <br />these systems for large commercial buildings and sports turf complexes. For <br />homeowners, rain barrels can be purchased from local municipalities and companies <br />for the purpose of reusing rain water to irrigate landscape plants. <br />8. Change expectation: Consider changing your lawn expectations to allow for <br />temporary discoloration during drought periods. It is very rare to have extended <br />droughts that completely compromise the integrity of a lawn. <br />9. Design landscapes for water conservation: Choose plants that are well -suited to <br />your site including drought -tolerant plants for dry areas. Mulch garden beds to retain <br />soil moisture and reduce weeds. Retain water on -site using rain barrels, <br />raingardens, and planted slopes. <br />PROPER INSTALLATION OF A RAIN SENSOR <br />