Center-Pivot Maintenance Trends in the Western United States

Abstract

Following recommendations for replacing center pivots and center-pivot sprinkler packages can help farmers improve water application efficiency and optimize crop production. Little information exists on the frequency with which farmers are replacing center pivots and sprinkler packages. To help address this issue, this study evaluated an industry database of center pivot (n=654) and sprinkler package (n=5,131) replacements in the western United States. On average, pivot systems were oldest in Montana, Idaho, and Utah, with an average age of 18, 16, and 16 years, respectively. Oregon had the lowest average pivot age (9 years). Average pivot age also varied by brand: Reinke systems were the oldest (16 years) and Valley were the youngest (11 years), on average. Across the database, 92% of the pivots were 25 years old or younger. Utah also had the oldest average sprinkler package age (10 years). Oregon and California changed sprinkler packages most frequently (≤4 years). Sprinkler package replacement frequency varied among center-pivot manufacturers, with Valley pivots having the highest frequency of sprinkler package changes (5 years) and Zimmatic pivots having the lowest frequency (8 years). Across the database, 50% of the sprinkler packages were replaced within 2 to 5 years, and 81% were replaced within 10 years. Most farmers in the region generally follow recommendations on replacing pivots and pivot sprinkler packages, but a sizeable number of farmers do not. Therefore, an opportunity exists to improve center-pivot and sprinkler package maintenance, thereby helping to make center-pivot irrigation more water efficient and crop production more sustainable. This study contributes to industry knowledge and awareness by providing data and insights on center-pivot and sprinkler package replacement trends. The authors evaluated an industry database of center-pivot (n=654) and sprinkler package (n=5,131) replacements in the western United States. Insights on the frequency of replacement can help farmers make informed decisions about when to replace their equipment, and can raise awareness on the importance of equipment maintenance. Farmers may therefore be encouraged to follow equipment maintenance recommendations and replace outdated or inefficient equipment. By so doing, farmers can irrigate more efficiently and optimize crop production, leading to improved yields and more sustainable crop production. The study revealed that equipment replacement trends vary by manufacturer. This reinforces the need for irrigators to consult with irrigation experts, manufacturers, or equipment dealers to obtain specific recommendations tailored to their specific circumstances and equipment. Irrigation equipment manufacturers and distributors can also use the study findings to improve their equipment and farmer support systems. Policy makers may use the findings in structuring and implementing farmer support programs and related policies and laws. The study, therefore, can provide insights that contribute to the nation’s goals of sustainable agricultural water use and crop production.