mobile irrigation lab (mil) administrative handbook · manatee county palmetto, florida...

Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL) Administrative Handbook

Florida Department of Agriculture and

Consumer Services

January 2015

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Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

http://www.ascr.usda.gov/

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 Introduction ........................................................................................................ 1-1

1.1 Mobile Irrigation Lab Administrative Handbook .................................................................. 1-1

1.2 Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 1-1

1.3 Annual Plan of Work ............................................................................................................. 1-1

CHAPTER 2 Human Resources ............................................................................................... 2-1

2.1 Staffing ................................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Mobile Irrigation Lab Personnel ............................................................................................ 2-2

2.3 Qualifications ......................................................................................................................... 2-2

2.3.1 Job Description - Mobile Irrigation Lab Team Leader ....................................................... 2-2 2.3.1.1 Education, Work Experience, Certification ..................................................................... 2-2 2.3.1.2 Administration and Public Information ........................................................................... 2-3 2.3.1.3 Duties ............................................................................................................................... 2-3 2.3.1.4 Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)/Civil Rights ...................................................... 2-4 2.3.2 Job Description – Mobile Irrigation Lab Team Member .................................................... 2-4 2.3.2.1 Education – Work Experience ......................................................................................... 2-4 2.3.2.2 Administration and Public Information ........................................................................... 2-4 2.3.2.3 Duties ............................................................................................................................... 2-4 2.3.2.4 EEO/Civil Rights ............................................................................................................. 2-5 2.4 Working Relationships and Responsibilities ......................................................................... 2-5

2.5 Staff Time Requirements for Irrigation Evaluation ............................................................... 2-5

CHAPTER 3 BUDGET ............................................................................................................. 3-1

3.1 Mobile Irrigation Lab Personnel Salaries and Benefits ......................................................... 3-1

3.2 Equipment .............................................................................................................................. 3-1

3.3 Training and Education .......................................................................................................... 3-4

3.4 Administrative Costs .............................................................................................................. 3-4

3.5 Audits ..................................................................................................................................... 3-5

CHAPTER 4 REPORTS ........................................................................................................... 4-1

4.1 MIL Database – Evaluation Data Entry, Tracking, and Reporting Stystem .......................... 4-1

4.2 Water Conservation Quarterly and Twelve Month Reports .................................................. 4-1

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab i January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

TABLES Table 1 – MIL Offices and Counties Served ........................................................................... 1-2

Table 2a – Basic Equipment for Evaluating Agricultural Microirrigation, and Sprinkler Systems .................................................................................................................................... 3-1

Table 2b –Equipment Required to Measure Tailwater in Agricultural Subirrigation Systems . 3-4

Table 3 – Example of Typical Operational Cost Ranges for an Agricultural MIL ................. 3-5

APPENDICES Appendix A – Mobile Irrigation Lab Employee Development Plan

Appendix B - ExampleMIL Water Conservation Quarterly Reports:

• Condensed Quarterly Report • Irrigation System Problems: List and Codes • Irrigation System Evaluations: Water Savings Data and Results • Irrigation System Water Source, Pumping Station and Other Information • Tracking Table for Initial Evaluations, Follow Up Evaluations, or Replacements • Conservation Education and Outreach • Evaluation Waiting List

Appendix C - Bylaws of the Irrigation Conservation Committee

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab ii January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in cooperation with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and the five (5) Water Management Districts (WMD) (see Figure 1), have been able to increase technical assistance to irrigators in the wise use of irrigation water through Mobile Irrigation Labs (MILs). There are eighteen (18) contact sites for the MILs operating in Florida as shown in the Table 1.

The MILs, with assistance from NRCS, and several WMDs of the State, formed the Irrigation Conservation Committee (ICC) in 1995. The ICC was formed to provide coordination between the MILs and insure MILs were operating in a consistent manner. The ICC provided a means for MILs to share ideas and experiences. By-laws were written and accepted by the ICC on August 14, 1996. The current By-laws are included in Appendix B of this handbook.

The ICC mission statement is:

The mission of the ICC is to promote effective water management by exchanging information and directing the future of MILs in Florida.

In addition to conducting irrigation evaluations, the MILs hold workshops, serve as guest speakers at various events to discuss irrigation water conservation, perform public relations activities with other agencies, work with teachers in the school systems and engage in other activities relating to educating the public on water conservation.

1.1 Mobile Irrigation Lab Administrative Handbook

The Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab Administrative Handbook (MILAH) is a document that describes the administrative operation and requirements of the MILs regarding their day-to-day and yearly operations. Other specific administrative responsibilities of the MILs that are not covered in this handbook may be found in the each MIL’s contract with their funding agency.

The MILAH:

• provides MIL personnel with a ready-reference, to achieve a consistent operation;

• is intended to provide pertinent information on reporting achievements; and

• will be updated as needed, but no less than every two years.

1.2 Objectives

The ICC has identified three objectives for the MILs to incorporate in their operations.

Objective #1: Engage in public relations activities that promote water conservation practice and the use of MILs in the state of Florida.

Objective #2: Provide advice, assistance, and technological support to MILs in the state of Florida.

Objective #3: Promote the ICC MILs by acting as a liaison between State and Federal agencies that fund, manage, and support the MIL water conservation program.

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab 1-1 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

Table 1 – MIL Offices and Counties Served MIL Name Phone Number Counties Served Lab

Big Cypress Basin Urban MIL Naples, FL

(239)455-4100 Collier U

Broward County (EPD) MIL Ft. Lauderdale, FL

(954)519-1281 Broward U

Broward Palm Beach BMP MIL Royal Palm Beach, FL

(561)792-2727 x 3

Broward, Palm Beach Ag

East Central RC&D MIL Orlando, FL

(407)896-0353 Seminole, Orange, Brevard U

Floridan RC&D MIL St. Augustine, FL

(904)471-1063 St. Johns, Flagler, Volusia, Putnam Ag

Highlands SWCD MIL (863)402-7020 Highlands Ag H20 Mobile (Levy SWCD) (352)318-8805 Alachua, Bradford, Union, Taylor,

Jefferson. Madison, Hamilton, Suwannee, Gilchrist, Levy, Dixie, Columbia, Marion

Ag

JEA Lawnsmart Urban (Floridan RC&D) MIL St. Augustine, FL

(904)471-1063

Duval, Nassau, St. Johns, Clay U

Lake SWCD MIL Tavares, FL

(352)343-2481, x 6

Lake, Marion, Orange Ag

Lower West Coast MIL Naples, FL

(239)455-4100 Collier, Hendry, Lee, Charlotte, Glades Ag

Manatee County Palmetto, Florida

(941)722-4524 Manatee U

Miami-Dade SWCD MIL Florida City, FL

(305)242-1288 Dade, Monroe Ag/U

ProMIL (SWFWMD) Bradenton, Florida

(941)920-2458 Manatee Ag

Resources Conservation Partners MIL

(850)766-0736 (386)209-5301

Alachua, Bradford, Union, Taylor, Jefferson. Madison, Hamilton, Suwannee, Gilchrist, Levy, Dixie, Columbia, Marion

Ag

SWFWMD MIL Wauchula, FL

(863)773-4764 x 3

Levy, Marion, Citrus, Lake, Sumter, Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Highlands, Manatee, Hardee, Sarasota, DeSoto, Charlotte

Ag

Tampa Bay Estuary MIL Plant City, FL

(813)759-6450, x. 3

Hillsborough, Pinellas Ag

St. Lucie SWCD Ft. Pierce, FL

(772)461-4546 x 113

St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River

Ag

West Florida RC&D MIL Marianna, FL

(850)482-0388 Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Wakulla, Walton, Washington

Ag

U = Urban Lab Ag = Agricultural Lab N = Nursery Lab Shaded MILs do not participate in the Irrigation Conservation Committee

From the objectives, the ICC identified tasks that each MIL will need to address in their annual plan of work (APW). The tasks for each objective are as follows. Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab 1-2 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

OBJECTIVE # 1: TASK PURPOSE

1. Educate the public on water conservation through press releases, newsletters, workshops, and participation at conferences.

Promote water conservation to the public.

2. Educate the public on the use of IWM tools Promote water conservation to the public 3. Assist schools with environmental education activities,

such as career days, science fairs, and class presentations

Promote water conservation to the public

4. Provide assistance in system design on an optional basis when requested.

Ensure that water conservation practices or methods were included to allow optimal use of water.

5. Develop, promote, and distribute irrigation pamphlets and fact sheets

Promote water conservation to the public.

6. Update MIL Brochures and MIL Handbook Allow the public to see the most up to date water savings values and to be aware of the MIL personnel and the benefits that are provided.

7. Update MIL state map Allows the public to identify which coverage area their property is located.

8. Develop and publish a combined report to show accomplishments of all MIL’s

Allows the public to see the benefits of the MIL.


1. Provide training as necessary to personnel as requested by other Agricultural or Urban MIL’s using instructors for Ag / Urban MIL Certification.

To provide consistency between all labs.

2. Committee will meet quarterly at central locations in the state to discuss new technology.

To stay current with irrigation technology

3. Develop a site specific irrigation water management (IWM) plan meeting NRCS standards for all customers receiving irrigation system evaluations.

Provide irrigators with an irrigation schedule and tool to allow more efficient irrigation.

4. Provide training on new technology to improve knowledge, skills, abilities and techniques of MIL Team members.

Learn new tools and ideas to assist in water conservation

5. Investigate, transfer, and share new MIL technology with other MILs in the State.

To provide consistency between all labs.


1. Committee will meet with agency representatives on a quarterly basis to discuss progress, current events, and funding with regard to water conservation, and the MIL projects.

To provide updates to funding agencies.

2. Participate in activities and network with organizations such as IFAS, CES, WMDs, FIS and other states with MILs

Enhance partnership with other entities and institutions of higher education.

3. Participate as requested in investigations, studies, inventories, field trials, and demonstration projects conducted by NRCS or in partnership with other organizations.

To enhance partnership with NRCS and other organizations.


1.3 Annual Plan of Work

Each MIL will develop an APW by May 30 of each FY. The APW will be developed based on meeting the MIL contract requirements and addressing the three MIL objectives identified by the ICC as previously discussed. The APW will be reviewed and approved by FDACS and other supporting agencies.


Chapter 2 HUMAN RESOURCES

2.1 Staffing

It is important that the MILs have the resources necessary to perform their job both in the field and in the office. Two of the most obvious resources are staff and equipment. Equipment is discussed in Chapters 3 of this Handbook and in Chapter 4 of the MIL Technical Handbook.

A MIL consists of one or more trained irrigation specialists who evaluate the performance of a wide variety of irrigation systems, by taking measurements and by making observations of the system. From these on-site evaluations, the MIL personnel provide recommendations for making system and/or system management improvements (if needed).

Additionally, MIL personnel use site specific soil, crop and irrigation system data to develop site specific irrigation water management (IWM) plans that meet NRCS standards and specifications. Technical assistance is provided to the irrigator, regarding the use of soil moisture measurement devices (i.e., tensiometers, gypsum blocks), water table observation wells, and the feel and appearance method. Through system improvements and the use of accurate scheduling techniques, irrigators can conserve a significant amount of irrigation water.

MIL personnel also compiles the data and information obtained from their field evaluations, and generate reports for use by the irrigator to make system or operational improvements. Such reports are provided to the irrigator of the irrigation system evaluated, NRCS, FDACS and/or any of the states five (5) WMDs, as applicable and necessary. MIL personnel will perform follow-up irrigation evaluations on previously evaluated irrigation systems once the irrigator has made system upgrades, repairs, etc. based on recommendations provided by the MIL during the initial evaluation.

The technical assistance provided by MIL personnel increases the ability of NRCS, FDACS, and/or the WMDs of the State, to meet the overall goal of water conservation, or more specific objectives that each of these public agencies may have.

2.2 Mobile Irrigation Lab Personnel

The costs associated with hiring and paying MIL members will vary, depending on factors such as the number of members in the MIL, type of MIL, MIL location, and qualifications (refer to Section 2.3 of this Chapter) of the MIL members. All of these factors should be considered when preparing a budget regarding the personnel expenses associated with an MIL.

The number of members in an MIL typically depends on the type of MIL. An urban MIL typically requires only one member, generally referred to as the MIL team leader; (refer to Section 2.3.1 of this Chapter), since most or all of the evaluations are done for private residences with lots no larger than 0.25 acres each. An agricultural MIL typically requires two members (who are generally referred to as an MIL team leader and an MIL team member; refer to Section 2.3.2 of this Chapter), since most or all of the evaluations are done on farms with irrigation systems that typically cover hundreds if not thousands of acres. For cases where evaluations will only be performed on nurseries, an Agricultural MIL will only require one member.


2.3 Qualifications

MIL personnel should have the ability to evaluate, and plan the types of irrigation systems used in Florida, and understand the hydraulic principles associated with each of them. These types of irrigation systems include microirrigation (drip and microjet), sprinkler (center pivot, traveling gun, linear move and solid set) and subirrigation (subsurface drip, flow through, and underground conduit) irrigation systems.

MIL personnel should be knowledgeable of the principles of plant-soil-water relationships as described in the National Engineering Handbook (NEH) Part 623, Irrigation (formerly Chapter 15) and the Florida Supplement to the National Irrigation Guide. This includes training in the use of the NRCS Web Soil Survey http://soils.usda.gov/survey/, the use of technical soils data, and how soil properties relate to irrigation water management. The MIL personnel should be knowledgeable in the use of devices that determine soil moisture (i.e., tensiometers, gypsum blocks, water table monitoring wells, and the feel and appearance method).

MIL personnel should have the knowledge, skills and ability to use irrigation scheduling techniques such as the accounting method, soil moisture monitoring, evaporative pan, and evapotranspiration estimation. Such methods require an understanding of rainfall, evaporation, transpiration, soil moisture and percolation.

Sources of training material include the NRCS National Engineering Handbook (NEH) Part 652 and Florida Supplement to the NEH Part 652, publications, and research papers from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), and Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) operated by IFAS. FAWN can be accessed through the following weblink: http://fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/. The MILs are also encouraged to attend other applicable training courses, conferences or workshops, which are typically sponsored or organized by technical industries or societies associated with the irrigation industry (i.e., the Florida Section of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), Irrigation Association (IA), or the Florida Irrigation Society).

MIL personnel will also be familiar with the use of computers, have basic math skills, and be able to communicate and work well with people.

An employee development plan needs to be created for each MIL employee by the ICC and each of the MILs found in Appendix C. Typical job descriptions for MIL personnel are listed below.

2.3.1 Job Description - Mobile Irrigation Lab Team Leader 2.3.1.1 Education, Work Experience, Certification

A. Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural or Civil engineering, irrigation, Horticulture, or a related field; or a minimum of five (5) years of experience in irrigation system auditing and/or operation and maintenance, combined with an irrigation certification.

B. Certification: the MIL team leader shall be certified in irrigation by institutions such as the Florida Irrigation Society, the IA, IFAS and/or equivalent associations or institutions that have been previously approved by the ICC and its partners. He/she shall maintain such certification(s) at all times during his/her employment as a team leader. If individual does not have certification, it must be obtained or the ability to obtain certification within six (6) months of hiring date.


http://soils.usda.gov/survey/

http://fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/

C. Practical knowledge of irrigation water management, planning and design of irrigation systems, and/or other related NRCS engineering practices.

D. Practical knowledge of soil qualities and characteristics in addition to irrigation water quality characteristics.

E. Practical knowledge of the structure, function, and mechanisms of NRCS, WMDs, and FDACS sufficient to keep decision makers and policy makers informed of the MIL water conservation programs to assure their successful continuation and longevity.

2.3.1.2 Administration and Public Information

A. Ability to supervise and operate an agricultural/urban MIL to achieve team goals with minimal guidance.

B. Ability to provide technical assistance to irrigators in the development, application and maintenance of water conservation and management plans and practices.

C. Ability to evaluate the effectiveness of irrigation systems in the water conservation project area and provide alternatives to increase irrigation water and energy efficiency based on the evaluation performed.

D. Ability to gather and analyze field data as it relates to irrigation water and energy conservation.

E. Ability to conduct a strong information program through the use of television, newsprint, trade publications and educational workshops directed at agricultural and/or urban landowners, irrigation system managers/operators, interest groups, schools and the general public.

F. Ability to produce and submit required technical reports and administrative records to the NRCS, WMD, FDACS and others as necessary.

G. Ability to provide training to personnel in MIL water conservation project policies, procedures and techniques. Assist other MILs with their programs when necessary and/or requested.

H. Skill in maintaining all vehicle records and submitting required reporting. Also serves as an incidental motor vehicle operator. This will require operation of a motor vehicle on both public and private roads, and off road as necessary, during daylight hours and occasionally after dark. A valid State driver’s license is required.

2.3.1.3 Duties

A. The MIL work involves treating a variety of conventional problems, questions or situations in conformance with established criteria.

B. The purpose of the MIL is to advise agricultural and/or urban land users in Florida concerning the use and conservation of irrigation water. The MIL Team Leader gathers planning information about the physical resources necessary for a reliable, timely and efficient resource management plan. Specifically the work involves the analysis of very simple to very complex irrigation systems greatly varying in size, types, applications and purposes.


C. Interact with State, county and local public officials, community residents, either singly or in groups, to provide and obtain water conservation information and data, such as but not limited to, irrigation system evaluations, irrigation methods, cost sharing programs, etc.

D. For agricultural MILs, the work requires regular and recurring physical exertion related to conservation work requiring walking on rough terrain, walking on slick, muddied, or manure/sledge areas, jumping furrows, climbing steep banks and fences, crouching under low, thorny trees, etc.

E. Fulfill all the deliverables listed in MIL contracts and scopes of work that have been negotiated with State, Federal, and/or local agencies.

2.3.1.4 Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)/Civil Rights

A. Provides assistance in the understanding and application of personnel rules and regulations as they apply to the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Employment Programs to ensure their integration into recruitment, hiring, promotion, training, career development (including varied work assignments, details and special developmental assignments), separations, grievances, and other personnel actions. Emphasizes meeting the objectives of equal opportunity and affirmative employment plans without regard to race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex (including gender identity and expression), marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, genetic information, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program.

2.3.2 Job Description – Mobile Irrigation Lab Team Member

2.3.2.1 Education – Work Experience

A. Degree in irrigation, horticulture, or a related field is desirable. Minimum 2 years of experience with irrigation and irrigation systems may be substituted.

2.3.2.2 Administration and Public Information

A. Conduct and/or assist with educational workshops and presentations. Assistance will include publicizing through local media and participating in its planning and development.

B. Provide summaries and data to team leader for quarterly and annual reports.

C. Assist with scheduling of cooperators and homeowners.

D. Keep vehicle in safe operating and clean condition.

2.3.2.3 Duties

A. Provide technical assistance with in-field evaluations and follow-ups as prescribed by the NRCS.

B. Input data collected in the field into computer and evaluate results.

C. Provide report and explanation of evaluations to the cooperator or homeowner.


2.3.2.4 EEO/Civil Rights

A. Contributes to a work environment free from gender, age, cultural, race and disabled bias.

B. Interacts with fellow employees in a non-discriminatory manner and accommodates the special needs of identified clients.

C. Demonstrates knowledge/support of, and performs duties in a manner consistent with EEO/CR policy. (Assures bias-free oral/written communication. Respects the values/differences of other employees/clients.)

2.4 Working Relationships and Responsibilities MIL personnel will work closely with NRCS field engineers and/or the NRCS State Conservation Engineer (SCE) in developing irrigation system evaluation procedures for MILs. Evaluation procedures and methods will be approved by the SCE, in coordination with FDACS. This will result in evaluation consistency among all MILs in the State. Methods will be refined and after approval by the SCE, will be distributed to all field offices.

The MILs will meet quarterly to determine ways to improve MIL operations and to increase technical assistance to water users, and to share their knowledge and experience amongst each other. The MILs will provide a vehicle for technology transfer from the MILs to the general public, NRCS field offices, and other state agencies such as FDACS.

The MILs will work closely with the NRCS Public Affairs Specialist in developing publications to educate the landowners. The publications will provide the necessary information for the landowner that explains how to operate the irrigation system and schedule irrigations. The MILs will also help in preparing articles for publishing in the major Florida agricultural magazines.

The MILs will work closely with the NRCS District Conservationists (DC) in the counties they serve, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), and other state agencies such as FDACS and the Water Management Districts, in order to provide timely technical assistance to water users. Data, information and accomplishments from such assistance, shall be reported through the NRCS reporting system, and through other tools or methods that state agencies such as FDACS provide to the MILs.

MIL personnel will work closely with the NRCS Area Conservationists to schedule appropriate area or state staff assistance in a timely manner.

2.5 Staff Time Requirements for Irrigation Evaluation The time required to evaluate an irrigation system will vary considerably due to the complexity of the system, travel time, etc. The irrigation evaluation includes the collection of field measurements, evaluation and analysis of the data and the development of a report that describes the performance of the irrigation system and recommendations.


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Chapter 3 BUDGET

3.1 Mobile Irrigation Lab Personnel Salaries and Benefits

The costs associated with hiring and paying MIL members will vary, depending on factors such as the number of members in the MIL, type of MIL, MIL location, and qualifications (refer to Chapter 2 of this handbook) of the MIL members. All of these factors should be considered when preparing a budget regarding the personnel expenses associated with an MIL.

The salaries and benefits of each of the MIL members should be commensurate with the cost of living associated with the geographical area in which the MIL is going to operate. Table 4 has an example of typical annual personnel cost ranges for an Agricultural MIL.

Because of all of the above-referenced factors and how their associated costs can vary with time, purpose and location, it is not possible to include exact costs associated with MIL personnel in this handbook. Instead, anyone interested in new/proposed MIL is encouraged to contact other existing MILs (of the same type as the new/proposed MIL) closest to the area where a new MIL is being proposed, or MILs that have been recently started, to use their personnel budgets as a “starting point” to generate the new/proposed MIL personnel budget.

3.2 Equipment

In order to be operational, each MIL needs to include capital costs associated with the initial purchase of equipment such as, a computer, printer, copier, general Microsoft Office software, office space, and/or a vehicle.

Tables 2a and 2b below have a list of field equipment necessary for the evaluation of most microirrigation systems (microjet and drip), sprinkler systems, and subirrigation systems by an Agricultural MIL. This equipment will allow the measurement of flow, pressure, discharge rates and application rates for most systems. Costs are can vary year to year and are only estimates. Based on the items listed in Tables 3a and 3b, the estimated total cost of equipment for the startup of one MIL is $10,457. In addition to the items listed in Tables 3a and 3b, all MIL personnel should have accessories including but not limited to, rubber boots, a rain suit, and safety goggles.

The estimated total cost for startup equipment for one Urban MIL is $1,057, since such an MIL will not need a portable flow meter or flumes. Table 3 has an example of typical annual range of costs to maintain all equipment on a yearly basis for an Agricultural MIL.

Table 2a – Basic Equipment for Evaluating Agricultural Microirrigation, and Sprinkler Systems

Item Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Portable Flow Meter for PVC or Steel Pipes

1 $8,000 $8,000

3/4" diameter PE tubing 1 foot -- -- 1" diameter PE tubing 1 foot -- -- 6" diameter PVC pipe SDR 26 (casing)

5 feet $4.00 $20.00


Item Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Band clamp pincers 1 $13.00 $13.00 Band clamps, 1" 20 $0.20 $4.00 Calculator 1 $10.00 $10.00 Carpenter's level (12") 1 $4.00 $4.00 Channel lock pliers (10") 1 $10.00 $10.00 Clip board (metal with storage) 1 $20.00 $20.00 Fiberglass tape measure (50') 1 $22.00 $22.00 Crescent wrench (8") 1 $12.00 $12.00 Duct tape 4 $5.00 $20.00 Flat file 1 $6.00 $6.00 Flow meter (25 gpm) 3/4 " diameter inlet/outlet

3 $40.00 $120.00

Funnel (4") 1 $1.00 $1.00 Garden trowel 1 $7.00 $7.00 Goof plugs (3/16") 1 box $2.00 $2.00 Graduated cylinder, plastic (1000 ml) 1 $14.00 $14.00 Graduated cylinder, plastic (100 ml) 1 $7.00 $7.00 Hammer, claw 1 $9.00 $9.00 Hand level 1 $4.00 $4.00 Keyhole saw (10") 1 $8.00 $8.00 Knife, utility pocket 1 $7.00 $7.00 Micrometer, stainless steel reads inside/outside/depth; reads to 0.001"

1 $36.00 $36.00

Needle-nose pliers 1 $15.00 $15.00 Paper towels 10 $0.50 $5.00 Permanent marker 1 $2.00 $2.00 Pipe wrench (10") 1 $20.00 $20.00 Post hole diggers 1 $30.00 $30.00 Pressure gauges (liquid filled)- 0-15 psi 3 $21.00 $63.00 0-30 psi 3 $21.00 $63.00 0-60 psi 3 $21.00 $63.00 0-100 psi 3 $21.00 $63.00 PVC cement 1 $4.00 $4.00 Rubber bands – 100 100 $2.00 $2.00 Rubber fuel line (1/4" diameter x 12") 1 $1.00 $1.00 Screwdriver set (2 slot & 2 phillips) 1 $15.00 $15.00 Shovel 1 $13.00 $13.00 Soils auger 1 $50.00 $50.00 Steel tape measure (25') 1 $10.00 $10.00 Stopwatch 2 $17.00 $34.00 Survey flags 1 bundle

$6.00 $6.00

Tally meter (for counting trees) 1 $11.00 $11.00 Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab 3-2 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

Item Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Tensiometer insertion tool - 36" 1 $49.00 $49.00 Tensiometer service kit 1 $61.00 $61.00 Tool box (8" x 8" x 16") 2 $20.00 $40.00 1/32" - ¼" drill bits 1 set $10.00 $10.00 1/4" dowels - eight inch pieces 50 $0.10 $5.00 Gallon jug 1 $0.00 $0.00 Large plastic containers 4" diameter quart (catch cans)

50 $0.40 $20.00

Pitot tube x 1/4" fpt 2 $4.00 $8.00 Wind speed indicator 1 $14.00 $14.00 PE tubing cutter 1 $12.00 $12.00 1" fpt x 1" insert adapter 1 $1.00 $1.00 1" mpt x 1" insert adapter 1 $0.20 $0.20 1" mpt x 1" mpt coupling 1 $1.70 $1.70 1" fpt x 1" fpt coupling 1 $1.50 $1.50 3/4" fpt x 1" mpt reducing bushing 1 $0.40 $0.40 3/4" fpt x 3/4" fpt coupling 1 $1.10 $1.10 3/4" fpt x 3/4" insert adapter 1 $3.00 $3.00 3/4" mpt x 3/4" insert coupling 1 $0.20 $0.20 3/4" mpt x 3/4" mpt coupling 1 $0.30 $0.30 1/2" fpt x 10-32 fpt thread adapter 1 $0.30 $0.30 1/2" fpt x 1/2" fpt coupling 1 $0.10 $0.10 1/2" fpt x 1/2" insert 1 $0.80 $0.80 1/2" fpt x 3/4" mpt reducing bushing 1 $0.30 $0.30 1/2" mpt x 1/2" insert 1 $0.20 $0.20 1/2" mpt x 1/2" mpt lock sleeve drip tube coupling

1 $0.30 $0.30

1/2" mpt x 1/2" mpt coupling 1 $0.10 $0.10 1/4" fpt x 1/2" mpt reducing bushing 1 $0.50 $0.50 1/4" fpt x 1/4" fpt brass coupling 1 $2.00 $2.00 1/4" fpt x 3/4" mpt reducing bushing 1 $0.30 $0.30 1/4" mpt x 1/4" insert brass 1 $2.00 $2.00 3/16" barb x 10-32 m thread coupler 1 $0.20 $0.20 3/16" barb x 3/16" barb x 3/16" barb tee

1 $0.20 $0.20

3/16" f barbed x 3/16" fpt barbed coupler

1 $0.20 $0.20

10-32 m threaded coupler 10-32 m 1 $0.40 $0.40 Note: Pipe Fittings: fpt = female pipe thread; mpt = male pipe thread

Total $9,062.30


Table 2b – Equipment Required to Measure Tailwater in Agricultural Subirrigation Systems:

Item Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Flume (large 60 degree with float well)

3 $1,000.00 $3,000.00

4” diameter PVC slotted/perforated pipe – 6 ft tall

as-needed varies varies

Soil Moisture Measurement Devices as-needed varies varies

The type of vehicle needed will depend on the type of MIL. Urban MILs will generally need a pickup truck with two wheel drive capabilities (or equivalent), while agricultural MILs will need a pickup truck or boxed-frame SUV with four wheel drive capabilities, since they will most likely be traveling off road through agricultural fields. An exception to that may be agricultural MILs that will be serving only nurseries; nursery roads are typically well maintained, allowing two wheel drive pickup trucks or SUVs to be used. Based on the above, the new/proposed MIL will need to include the cost of purchasing or leasing their applicable vehicle in their budget. Associated annual costs such as automobile insurance, maintenance and operation (fuel) costs will also need to be included. Once the necessary type of vehicle is determined, appropriate written quotes regarding the cost to purchase or lease the vehicle and automobile insurance, will need to be obtained in support of the budget being prepared. Table 3 shows an example of the price range to lease a vehicle for an Agricultural MIL.

3.3 Training and Education

There are other important tools/resources that apply to all MILs, independently of their type (agricultural, urban, or both). Those common tools/resources are: ongoing educating and/or training, so that the MIL members can review their job duties and responsibilities on a regular basis and stay up to date on the latest irrigation system evaluation methodologies; providing the MILs the means to consistently and comprehensively document and record information associated with irrigation system evaluations; and providing the MILs and its supporting entities and agencies the means to keep track of all the information associated with all the water conservation evaluations through the years. Such resources are typically available in the form of training, the development and use of forms, and an evaluation tracking system.

As part of the MIL’s employee development plan, annual cost for applicable training, workshops, etc. should be calculated and submitted as part of their annual budget. Table 4 shows an example of typical annual range of training and education costs for an Agricultural MIL.

3.4 Administrative Costs

Typically, MILs share office space with a Federal or County office such as NRCS or county government. Often, this office space is provided as an in-kind service to the MIL. A new/proposed MIL is encouraged to contact such Federal or County agencies, to inquire if such in-kind services are available to them. Based on the discussion, the new/proposed MIL may or may not need to include the rental fee of office space in their budget. A similar discussion should occur regarding the use of a computer, printer, copier, and other associated office supplies. Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab 3-4 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

Contractors generally charge an administrative fee for managing contracts associated with an MIL. Most of the contractors that FDACS works with are Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) or Resource Conservation and Development Councils (RC&DC). Such contractors charge an additional five percent (5%) of the total contract cost, for administration of the MIL contract. The new/proposed MIL is encouraged to identify the appropriate administrative cost for their MIL, and include it in their budget. Table 4 shows an example of typical administrative costs for an Agricultural MIL.

3.5 Audits

Most state government agencies that receive income of $50,000 or more are subject to audits. The majority of current MILs are contracted through SWCD or RC&DC, which fall into this category. Table 3 shows an example of typical audit costs for an Agricultural MIL.

Table 3 - Example of Typical Operational Cost Ranges for an Agricultural MIL1/

Item Cost Category 12 Month Cost Range Personnel Mobile Lab Team Leader $38,000 — $56,000 Mobile Lab Technician $26,000 — $33,000 Benefits, Unemployment, Social Security $13,000 — $34,000 Total Personnel Costs $64,000 — $123,000 Personnel Training Technical Training $400 — $1,000 Total Staff Training $400 — $1,000 Equipment MIL Lab Equipment Replacement/Maintenance $400 — $2,000 Vehicle Lease In-Kind — $10,000 Vehicle Operation and Maintenance (fuel & service) In-Kind — $5,600 Vehicle Insurance In-Kind — $2,600 Total Equipment Costs $400 — $20,200 Miscellaneous Quarterly meetings and travel $400 — $2,500 Computer IT and Maintenance In-Kind — $1,600 Total Miscellaneous $400 — $4,100 Administration Costs Share of Secretarial Services In-Kind — $26,000 Share of Office Space & Utilities In-Kind — $2,600 Share of Office Supplies In-Kind — $2,800 Share of Office/Mobile Telephone Services In-Kind — $2,700 Share of Accounting/Audit Services $1,200 — $6,300 MIL Contract Administration Fee $3,400 — $7,200 Total Administration Costs $6,000 — $47,600 TOTALS: $72,100 — $195,900

1/ One or two person Agricultural MIL. See also Section 3.2, for Capital costs associated with starting an MIL.


Chapter 4 REPORTS

4.1 MIL Database - Evaluation Data Entry, Tracking, and Reporting System

The main goal of the MILs in the State is to help conserve water through their evaluations and recommendations. This goal is shared among several State and Federal agencies, including FDACS, Water Management Districts, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and NRCS, among others. For example, Florida Statute 570.085 mandates the FDACS to establish an Agricultural Water Conservation Program that includes MILs.

In 2006, a Statewide MIL desktop database was developed in order for all interested agencies and parties to monitor the degree to which MILs help conserve water throughout the State. This system was cooperatively developed by the SFWMD, FDACS, NRCS and members of the ICC. This desktop database and tracking system has selected MIL water conservation information from 2004 to 2007 and resides with FDACS and SFWMD.

Parallel to this effort, FDACS started asking all cooperating MILs to report all MIL water conservation data in standard reporting spreadsheet formats developed by FDACS. Most of the data in these standard spreadsheets did not make into the state-wide desktop database, because of lack of resources/funding to do so. NRCS, SFWMD, SJRWMD, and NWFWMD continue to receive this spreadsheet-format data from the MILs.

Since 2006 FDACS has done internal compilations and reports of this Statewide (spreadsheet-based) water conservation MIL information as applicable, to justify their annual funding, support, and administration of the Statewide Agricultural MIL Program.

In 2010, FDACS had an internal audit of their MIL program done. The findings from the final audit report dated May 7, 2010 were used to further improve the program, particularly on the accuracy, collection, compilation and reporting of MIL evaluation data. This resulted in the improvement of the standard MIL reporting spreadsheets that had been in use since 2006.

In the fall of 2009 FDACS, the SJRWMD and IFAS entered into discussions to develop a web-based database to enter, track, query and/or report MIL evaluations with support from the ICC and its partners. In January of 2010, FDACS and IFAS FAWN entered into a contract to develop and deploy such database using the standard reporting spreadsheets updated in 2010 as the model to follow with SJRWMD providing the funding to do so and FDACS providing all in-kind services.

This MIL database was developed and tested in 2010 and 2011, and was deployed in January of 2012. The MIL database serves MIL employees, MIL contractors, partners, and guests associated with or interested in the FDACS MIL program, and can be found at the following web address: https://fdacsmilims.fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/login.php

The database does not contain MIL evaluation data prior to July 2009. Any MIL evaluation data entered into the database undergoes a rigorous Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) process by FDACS and the MILs themselves,


https://fdacsmilims.fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/login.php

MIL evaluation spreadsheet data collected prior to July 2009 will require a more rigorous QA/QC process before it can be entered into the database. At this time there are no immediate plans to enter this data into the database because of limitations on the necessary resources to do so.

4.2 Water Conservation Quarterly and Twelve Month Reports

The water conservation information that the MILs collect on a daily basis via their evaluations has great value to the state WMDs, NRCS, FDACS, and other MIL partners. Each MILs will record water conservation information using standard and consistent methods and forms, and compile the data in a quarterly reports.

The quarterly reports shall, at a minimum, include the following topics.

1. Evaluation Results - a summary of the total Potential Water Saved (PWS), Actual Water Saved (AWS), and the typical problems encountered during the quarter. The quarterly report will include all the applicable attachments/forms described and included in Chapter 4 of this document.

2. Waiting List – the number of participates and nature of irrigation systems waiting for an evaluation.

3. Water Conservation Education and/or Outreach - a summary of any water conservation educational and/or outreach efforts provided during the quarter, as applicable. A form for documenting outreach is also in Chapter 6 of this handbook.

4. All FDACS sponsored MILs will use the MIL database to generate the quarterly report documents and formats shown in Appendix A. This will ensure the aforementioned topics are documented and the water conservation information from each MIL throughout the State is presented in a consistent fashion.

The twelve month report shall, at a minimum, include the following topics.

1. Introduction - This section should provide a brief history of the MIL creation, its mission, and type of services it provides. This section can also include information about the current MIL members and any applicable acknowledgments.

2. Abstract - This section should summarize the number of evaluations completed and the type of such evaluations; the total Potential Water Saved (PWS) as a result of the applicable evaluations done during the twelve month period; the Actual Water Saved (AWS) as a result of the applicable evaluations done during the twelve month period; and a summary of any education and/or training provided by/for the MIL during the twelve month period.

3. Evaluation Methods - This section should provide a brief description of the irrigation system evaluation method(s) used during the twelve month period.


4. Training - This section should provide a summary of any training attended by the MIL during the twelve month period, and include any certificate or document that demonstrates the MILs assistance to such training.

5. Acknowledgements - This section should include a short statement recognizing the entities that support the existence of the MIL.

6. Appendices - This section should provide a summary of information that explains or is relevant to the daily evaluation work that an MIL does. Some examples include but are not limited to: a “definitions” list, an explanation of how water savings were computed, a “problems description” list, and a “references” list.


Appendix A: Mobile Irrigation Lab Employee Development Plan

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab A - 1 January 2015 MIL Technical Handbook


Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab A - 2 January 2015 MIL Technical Handbook

NAME:

POSITION: Mobile Irrigation Lab Team Leader

LOCATION:

DATE:

SUBJECT REFERENCE MATERIAL TRAINING METHODS

PROFICIENCY LEVEL SELECTED

METHODS & DATE

SCHEDULED

DATE COMPLETED COMMENTS

PRESENT REQUIRED

I. Mobile Irrigation Lab Handbook

Updated MIL Handbook OJT, Self Study (SS) 1. Irrigation Conservation Committee (ICC) Bylaws 5 2. ICC Annual Plan of Work 5

3. Quaterly Reporting Format Agreement between MIL and Funding Entity OJT, Funding Entity 5

4. Reporting Method and Procedures

Agreement between MIL and Funding Entity OJT, Funding Entity 5

II. NRCS Directive System Individual Manuals & Handbooks OJT, SS A. Field Office Technical Guide eFOTG, Sections I, II, III, IV, V 3

B. Engineering Field Handbook EFH Part 650, Chapter 1, Florida Supplement 3

C. National Irrigation Guide Florida Supplement NEH Part 652, Irrigation Guide Florida Supplement 4

III. Federal, State, & Local Laws Individual Laws & Regulations OJT, SS B. Florida 3 1. Pesticide & Chemigation Regulations FAC Chapter 40 3 2. Watering Restrictions issued by Water Management District 3

3. Role of Water Management Districts in water conservation WMD Rules, Web Site OJT, SS

C. Local 3 1. Bylaws and Ordinances 3 2. Regulations 3

3. Watering Restrictions issued by Local Municipalities Local rules and regulations OJT 3

IV. NRCS Programs NRCS Public Affairs new releases OJT, SS, DC

A. EQIP Conservation Programs Manual Title 440, Part 515 EQIP 2

V. Basic Technical Skills A. Mathematic Computation NEH Part 652, Irrigation Guide OJT, SS, Workshops 5 1. Understanding Typical Units of Measure Used in Irrigation Textbooks IWM Course 5 2. Unit Conversion 5 3. Basic Algebra 5 4. Measuring Horizontal Distance 5

VI. Soils A. NRCS Web Soil Survey http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/ OJT, SS 3 B. Understanding the Soil Survey Report NRCS Web Soil Survey 4

1. Physical Soil Properties NEH-623 (Formally NEH 15); Irrigation Guide OJT, SS, Workshops 4

2. USDA textural system

4

3. Soil - Water Relationships 4

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab A-3 January 2015 MIL Handbook

http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/

4. Calculation of Available Water Capacity NEH 652 Irrigation Guide 4

VII. Plant Sciences

A. Plant Growth Characteristics for Florida Crops NEH-15 (NEH 623); Irrigation Guide OJT, SS, Workshop 4 1. Rooting Depth Florida Irrigator's Guide 4 2. Seasonal & Peak ET Rates 4 3. Effect of Climatic Factors 4

a. Florida Automated Weather Network http://fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/ OJT. SS 4

4. Plant-Soil-Water Relationships 4 5. Critical Crop Stage Concepts 5 B. Irrigation Frequency 5 C. Maximum Allowable Depletion 5 D. Root Zone Depths 5 G. Crop Rotation 5 H. Irrigation Requirements 5

1. Factors affecting irrigation efficiency

NEH 652 Irrigation Guide

2. Climatic Zones of Florida 5 3 Irrigation Water Requirements for Florida Crops 5 I. Auxiallary Water Uses OJT, SS 4 1. Frost Protection 4

VIIII. Farm Distribution Components NEH 652 Irrigation Guide OJT, SS, Workshops A. Pipelines The Florida Irrigator's Guide 5

1. Safety Devices NEH-623 (Formally NEH 15); Irrigation Guide 5

C. Water Measurement 5 a. Pipeline Flow 5 (2) Flow meters 5 D. Pumping Plants 5 a. Motor 5 (1) Electric 5 (2) Diesel 5 b. Pump 5 (1) Centrifugal 5 (2) PTO 5 (3) Vertical Turbine 5 (4) Submersible 5 c. Check Valve 5 d. Pressure Gauge 5

e. Filration

5

E. Water Sources 5 1. Well 5 2. Pond 5 3. Canal 5

X. Water Management A. Irrigation 5

1. Irrigation Planning NEH-623 (Formally NEH 15); Irrigation Guide OJT, SS, Workshop 5

a. Inventory of Resources 5 b. Analysis of Soil-Plant-Water Resources NEH 652 Irrigation Guide 5


http://fawn.ifas.ufl.edu/

c. Irrigation Theory 5 d. System Requirements 5

e. Water Use and Management Plan 5

f. Farm Irrigation Rating Method (FIRM) 5

2. Irrigation Systems 5 a. System Requirements 5 b. Pumping Plant Requirements 5 c. System Designs 5 (2) Sprinkler Irrigation 5 (3) Micro Irrigation 5

(4) Mainline, lateral & manifold design 5

(5) Filters, valves & appurtenances 5

d. Water Supply Analysis 5 3. Irrigation Water Management 5

a. Principles of Irrigation Water Application 5

b. Field Procedures for Evaluation of Irrigation Systems 5 (2) Sprinkler Irrigation 5 (3) Micro Irrigation 5 c. Pumping Plant Concepts 5 d. Analysis of Evaluation Data 5 (1) Distribution Uniformity 5

(2) Emissions Uniformity 5

(3) Irrigation losses 5

(5) Application efficiency 5

(6) Potential efficiencies 5

(7) System & management changes needed 5

(8) Actual savings of water 5

(9) Potential savings of water 5

(10) Water Quality 5

e. Measurement of Irrigation Water 5

3. NRCS Irrigation Evaluation Spreadsheets

Microirrigation Evaluation Ver 1.1, FIRM, Irrigation Water Management ver 1.4, Sprinkler - Solid Set Eval ver 1.1

OJT, SS, Workshop

5 4. FDACS Reporting Method FDACS, OJT, SS 5

X. FL NRCS Conservation Practice Standards OJT, SS, DC

A. Conservation Practices (CPS = Conservation Practice Standard - FOTG IV) 3

1. Irrigation Systems NEH 652 Irrigation Guide 5

a. Soil - Plant - Water Relationships 5


b. Planning Irrigation Systems 3 (2) Sprinkler Irrigation CPS 442 3 (3) Micro Irrigation CPS 441 3 (6) Water Supply CPS 533, CPS 447, CPS 642 3 c. Irrigation Water Management CPS 449 5

XI. Reports - Quarterly and Annual OJT, SS, DC A. Contents of report MIL Handbook, Appendix A OJT, SS, DC 3 1. FDACS Quarterly Progress Report Form 5 2. Attachment #1 5 3. Attachment #2: Original Evaluation and Follow up Tracking Table 5 4. MIL Evaluation Waiting List 5 5. Education and Outreach 5


APPENDIX B

EXAMPLE MIL QUARTERLY REPORTS

and

IRRIGATION SYSTEM PROBLEMS: LIST AND CODES

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab B-1 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

Irrigation System Problems and Codes

Below are the irrigation system or management factors that limit irrigation system performance or efficiency, which were noted during the system evaluation, and/or thorough discussion with the irrigator. The code numbers in this table are used in any applicable MIL reports, to document those problems in those reports.

Code Description of Problems

PRESSURE AND/OR IRRIGATION RATE

Detailed List 1 Under-sized pump for number and type of sprinkler heads or emitters 2 Pressure loss between pump and sprinklers/emitters due to inadequate pipe

size 3 Higher pressure than manufacturer's specifications 4 Lower pressure than manufacturer's specifications 5 Low pressure due to water supply 6 Different pressure between manifolds 7 Wetted area not adequate for crop requirement 8 Application rate > soil infiltration rate (ponding) 9 Air in pipelines

10 Turf and landscape area irrigated in the same zone 11 Pressure variation due to elevation differences 12 Missing/malfunctioning pressure gauge/regulator/filter 13 Mixed Crops or container with different water requirements in the same zone

Generic List 101 Too High or Low Pressure at Pump Station 102 Too High or Low Flow at Pump Station 103 Uneven pressure distribution across manifold(s) and/or lateral(s) 104 Uneven irrigation distribution across lateral(s)

EMITTERS AND/OR SPRINKLERS

Detailed List 20 Mixed sprinkler/emitter sizes & unmatched precipitation in the same zone 21 Mixed sprinkler/emitter brands or types in the same zone 22 Poor emitter/sprinkler uniformity due to worn orifice 23 Poor overlap due to improper sprinkler/emitter alignment or spacing 24 Various riser heights in same zone 25 Emitter/sprinkler spacing varies in same zone 26 Missing/malfunctioning emitters or sprinklers 27 End Gun is out of adjustment or not operating


Generic List

201 Mixed sprinkler/emitter sizes 202 Mixed sprinkler/emitter brands 203 Missing and/or broken emitters or sprinklers 204 Wrong emitter or sprinkler size and/or spacing for type and/or layout of crop

MAINTENANCE Detailed List

30 Leaks and broken valves, pipe, laterals lines (Poly-tubing), emitters, sprinklers

31 Clogged filter or filter screen 32 Sprinkler heads not properly adjusted 33 Clogged emitters/nozzles (due to biological, chemical or physical factors) 34 Leaning sprinklers/emitters causing non-uniform distribution 35 Malfunctioning valves 36 Control box in need of repair 37 Boot Leak 38 System has no booster pump 40 Stream of water blocked by vegetation 41 Variable crop spacing and stage of growth 42 Poor drainage, requiring water control

Generic List 301 Pump Station Engine and/or Pump leaks or malfunctions 302 Filter leaks, clogged, or malfunctions 303 Pipe Leaks in Irrigation System 304 Valve(s) Malfunction(s) or Leak(s) in Irrigation System 305 Emitters and/or Sprinklers leaks, clogged, or malfunctioning

OPERATION AND/OR MANAGEMENT

Detailed List 50 Operating time too long 51 Operating time too short 52 Operating time too frequent 53 No rain shut-off device 54 No soil moisture measuring device or rain gage 55 No irrigation water management plan 56 No tachometer 57 Contamination of water with oil and fuel


Generic List

501 Irrigation System Running too Long 502 Irrigation System not Running Long Enough 503 Inappropriate Irrigation Frequency 504 Inappropriate Irrigation System for type of crop 505 Abandoned and/or Inoperable Irrigation System


APPENDIX C – BYLAWS

Florida Mobile Irrigation Lab C-1 January 2015 MIL Administrative Handbook

BYLAWS OF THE IRRIGATION CONSERVATION COMMITTEE

ARTICLE I. NAME

The official designation of this committee shall be the Irrigation Conservation Committee of Mobile Irrigation Labs, Florida.

ARTICLE II. MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Irrigation Conservation Committee (ICC) is to promote effective water management by exchanging information and directing the future of the Mobile Irrigation Labs in Florida.

ARTICLE III. OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this committee shall be:

Section 1. To engage in public relations activities that promote water conservation practices and the use of Mobile Irrigation Labs in the state of Florida.

Section 2. Provide advice, assistance, and technological support to Mobile irrigation Labs in the State of Florida.

Section 3. To promote the ICC Mobile Irrigation Labs by acting as a liaison between State and Federal agencies that fund, manage, and support the MIL water conservation program.

A Plan of work will be reviewed annually and updated as needed, to reflect the above objectives by October 1 of every Federal Fiscal Year.

ARTICLE IV. MEMBERSHIP

Section 1. The ICC shall be comprised of:

(a) Officers – see Article VI

(b) NRCS and non-NRCS MIL staff members

(c) Advisors as non-voting members; one advisor from each of the following disciplines, entities or agencies:

[1] Engineering

[2] Public Affairs – at large

[3] Soils – at large

[4] One (1) Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) or Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council Supervisor.

[5] South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), Saint John’s River Water


Management District (SJRWMD), Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD), Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

[6] The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).

ARTICLE V. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Section 1. The ICC will approve all appointments.

(a) The Irrigation Conservation Committee or other outside entities can make recommendations for consideration.

(b) New members will start serving when approved by committee.

Section 2. Terms

(a) MIL staff members will serve as long they continue in that position.

ARTICLE VI. OFFICERS

Section 1. The officers of the committee shall be a chair, vice-chair, and secretary. These positions will be elected from the voting members. Their duties shall be:

(a) CHAIR - shall call and preside over meetings of the members; assign a member to keep notes; rule on points of order; appoint and remove members of all subcommittees, with the advice and consent of the Committee; and act as an Ex-officio member of all subcommittees.

(b) VICE-CHAIR - shall act as deputy to the Chair at the latter’s discretion and shall perform such duties of the Chair as the latter shall designate. In the event of the absence of the Chair from any committee meeting, the Vice-Chair shall preside.

(c) SECRETARY - shall be responsible for recording all proceedings of the Irrigation Conservation Committee, including general meetings; distributing minutes; and maintaining all permanent records of the Irrigation Conservation Committee.

Section 2. The term of office of the Chair shall be one year. The serving Vice-Chair shall succeed the Chair. The succession will be approved by a simple majority vote. If the Vice-Chair is deemed incapable of fulfilling the role of Chair, nominations will be made from the voting membership with election by a simple majority vote.

Section 3. The term of office of the Vice-Chair and Secretary shall be one year. The Vice-Chair and Secretary shall be elected at the last meeting prior to the end of the federal fiscal year. The Vice-Chair and Secretary shall be elected by a simple majority vote.


Section 4. Officers may serve only two consecutive terms in an office. No member may hold more than one office at a time.

Section 5. If the Office of Chair is vacated, the Vice-Chair shall take over the position, unless the voting membership deems it necessary for the Chair to be filled by election with a simple majority vote.

Section 6. If the office of Vice-Chair or Secretary is vacated, it shall be filled by election with a simple majority vote.

Section 7. Vacated offices shall be filled at the next regular meeting of the Irrigation Conservation Committee.

ARTICLE VII. MEETINGS

Section 1. The Chair shall determine a central location for the meetings, unless the committee agrees to another location by vote.

Section 2. Each designated MIL is entitled to one vote. The Chair shall vote to break a tie. Proxy or absentee voting is permitted.

Section 3. Except for special circumstances, the Committee shall hold meetings at least twice a year. Two meetings may be two days long with one day dedicated to a technical program and one day dedicated to administrative business.

Section 4. Quorum for the meeting will consist of a simple majority of the Irrigation Conservation Committee members.

Section 5. Minutes of meetings will be sent to all participating committee members and are available upon request.

Section 6. The meetings shall occur on the third Tuesday of the second month of each quarter.

ARTICLE VIII. BUDGET

An ICC budget will be developed each year and attached to the Plan of Work. A Plan of Work will be reviewed annually and amended as needed.

ARTICLE IX. AMENDMENTS

Amendments of the Bylaws or a waiver of any provision thereof will be effective by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the ICC voting membership.


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