Management of traveler gun irrigation systems in the Pacific Northwest

Abstract

The traveling or reel big gun irrigation system is one of the most popular forms of irrigation in northwestern Washington. According to WSDA Crop Data for 2019, the total acreage irrigated by big guns was 38,760 acres, 29% of all big gun irrigation systems in Washington State. Many growers prefer the traveling gun since it is easy to set up but lack information on proper system management for water use efficiency and yield productivity. Good irrigation system management is vital for crop uniformity and quality. The focus of this publication is to provide information on how growers can properly manage traveling gun irrigation systems which can save water and energy and increase crop productivity and profitability.