Case Studies

Type of work

Irrigation Services were engaged by the Otago District Council to design and implement an irrigation system that would enable Pioneer Park to become a successful multi use recreation ground with ornamental garden and tree lined  park.

Problem that needed solving

Established in the late 1860’s, Pioneer Park has a selection of mature trees and an ornamental plant collection.  Over the years the park has become and integral part of the Alexandra Township becoming home to the local museum, art gallery and information centre.  The large turf area is regularly used for festivals, markets and other outdoor community events.

As park use has expanded and become more diverse better more robust turf management was required.  The basis of which is an irrigation system that integrates with the existing bore and pumps.

Irrigation Services designed the system factoring usage constraints, such as water take.  Zone sizes, valves and sprinkler types were all considered as variable rates of application across the park are required to achieve optimal irrigation.

Size/scale of project

The park is approximately 1.2 hectares, comprising of open turf, ornamental planting, established mature trees, barked playground and astro-grass tennis courts. 

Complexities and challenges

The project had the added constraint of being an operating park during the life of the project meaning disruption to the usable area needed to be kept to a minimum. To achieve this, the usual project approach was adapted so full work activities were completed in sections each day: turf removed, trenching dug, pipe installed and turf relayed.

Work being undertaken in small sections like this did mean equipment such as trenchers were required to be onsite for longer than normal.  As usual approach would see all trenches dug prior to pipe being laid.

Description of outcome/solution

Due to the successful completion and commissioning of carefully designed irrigation system Pioneer Park is now considered the town’s premier recreation ground.  The park is home of the annual Thyme and Blossom Festivals, during the summer months the park is regularly used for weekend markets and special events.

Details

Location

Alexandra Central Otago

Client

Central Otago District Council

Year

2018