Reuse Of Reclaimed Wastewater Through Irrigation

Bulletin 860

Provisions for severe weather

Freezing temperatures and heavy rains can present problems for irrigation systems. Fortunately, a number of strategies are available to mitigate problems caused by severe weather. When developing storage systems, consider the wettest year with a 5-year return frequency.

Irrigation is not recommended when:

• the ground is frozen
• the air temperature is less than 35 degrees F
• wind velocity exceeds 20 mph for urban sites and 25 mph for agricultural sites using spray irrigation
• soil is bare unless erosion control measures are in place
• snow or water is standing on the ground surface
• groundwater is within 1 foot of the surface
• agricultural or horticultural practices are planned
• equipment receives routine maintenance

In general, wastewater storage provisions for at least 130 days of design average flow will be needed for periods when irrigation is not recommended.

If system operation calls for irrigation after October 31 and before May 1, provisions should be made for protection from freezing. All irrigation lines should be drained, buried, or insulated.

In some areas of Ohio, permits can be obtained for stream discharge during winter and times of high stream flow. These controlled discharge permits are often less stringent than year-round discharge permits, because wastewater is reused during summer low-flow periods when the environmental impact on the receiving stream would be greatest. If discharge is acceptable, storage needs can be significantly reduced.