Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

How far from the turf's edge should catch devices be placed?

1. 3 - 6 inches

2. 12 - 24 inches

3. 24 - 36 inches

4. 36 - 48 inches

The correct answer is: 12 - 24 inches

The placement of catch devices in relation to the edge of the turf is crucial for accurately assessing the efficiency of the irrigation system. When catch devices are positioned 12 to 24 inches away from the turf's edge, this distance helps ensure that the devices collect water that realistically represents what the turf area receives during the irrigation event. This range allows the catch devices to capture runoff while avoiding interference from the edges of the grass, where water distribution may be inconsistent due to factors such as wind or system operation. Furthermore, this distance helps to avoid any unintended water collection from sources other than the irrigation system itself, leading to more precise measurements that inform audits and water use assessments. Setting the catch devices too close or too far from the turf could result in inaccurate results, either by overestimating or underestimating the amount of water delivered to the turf area. Keeping them within the specified range maximizes accuracy in irrigation auditing exercises.