Leak cause – rodent damage

Rodents can damage the drip line and can be a particular problem with SDI applications.

Prevention techniques

  • Start with good farm hygiene. Slashing/mowing to prevent buildup of protein is an easy and effective starting point.

  • Rodent extermination programs are best conducted in the colder months.

  • Be careful if you have black cracking clay soil that dries and creates paths for rodents to the drip laterals. A relatively simple solution for these soils is to periodically operate the system during the off-season.

  • Owls and other predatory birds can provide defense. Owl nest boxes can be installed.

 

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