Centre Pivot and Lateral Move (CF&LM) irrigation machines are gaining popularity within

the Australian cotton industry, as they can provide high application efficiency and

uniformity, low labour requirements, improved crop management flexibility, and fertigation

and chemigation potential. Growers and consultants who have not yet had experience with

these machines can be daunted by the choice and design considerations available whilst those

individuals using CP&LM machines often struggle with the increased level of management

required over their previous furrow irrigation operations.

This project has developed a number of extension, adoption and training tools to allow end

users to increase their understanding of CF&LM machines. These tools form a resource of

information that can be readily accessed as stand alone materials or delivered in a structured

manner.

The information resource developed consists of a number of articles and case studies to

provide opportunities for awareness raising and increasing adoption. In addition, a significant

training package has been developed that can be delivered to growers, consultants or

extension personnel to increase their understanding of the design and management

considerations and practicalities involved with CP&LM machines. Finally, chapters have

been contributed to the WaterPak manual and provide a readily accessible reference source

for information as required.

Much of this information has been developed including practical tips obtained from a series

of interviews of seven leading and innovative CP&LM users to incorporate the experience

that these practitioners have gained.