The Evolution of Drainage
For close to 200 years now, we have been using traditional tile drainage systems in order to control the amount of water in our fields. In this technological age, there are, and continue to be, numerous improvements in drainage technology. The idea of too much water is not the only factor to take into consideration. We have spent many years trying to just get rid of the excess water, but we have the technology available now to actually manage the water and, to a large extent, the health of our soil.
The Micro Drainage concept builds upon the well-established tile pipe drainage system. We have discovered that by doing 3 things: making the pipe narrower, installing it at a shallower depth, and making the spacing of the rows closer, we can not only make installation easier and less expensive, but we can protect and enhance the health of the soil.
Narrow pipe (2” diameter) is less likely to become clogged by silt because the higher velocity of the water running through it. It is less expensive to purchase and easier to install than larger clay tiles. The pipe is installed at a shallow depth of about 24”. This greatly reduces the disturbance of the nutrients contained in the soil. It also allows for quicker drainage, since the water reaches the tile quicker. By keeping the rows spaced 15-20’ across, this increase drainage capability. This means less over-saturation damage to the crops located in the middle of the rows – a problem that occurs with wider spacing distances.
Combined with accurate topographical readings now available to us which pinpoint exactly where the water is currently flowing and where the depression pockets are, we can now achieve the optimal drainage situation for each individual growing area.
Let us show you how the Micro Drainage concept can benefit you!