SPIS Toolbox - Collect Data

Collect Data

For a proper design of an SPIS, a complex set of data and information is required on the meteorology, soil, crop, water and other site-specific parameters. The data can be obtained from a combination of interviews with the producer, on-site field observation and off-site data (internet, databases, etc.). The producer has to tell the designer what crops are to be grown at what time and how the crops are to be managed. The producer may want to use fertigation for accelerated growth, or the producer may opt for fruit trees instead of annual crops. Based on the location of the farm, a lot of data can be collected off-site, such as meteorological data, topography and perhaps even information on water availability. While an on-site survey of solar radiation and other meteorological data would be a worthwhile exercise, most systems are based on existing data derived from nearby reference locations. Data and information on evapotrans-piration and crop water requirements can be obtained from agricultural offices or extension services. Finally, a field visit has to be organized to validate the collected data and to complement it with local information on e.g. soil and water quality, shadowing from trees or hill tops, ease of access to the site, the pumping head and more.

The DESIGN 01-Site Data Collection Tool contains interview guidelines and check-lists to ensure that all required information for creating an SPIS design is available. The DESIGN 02-SPIS Suitability Check Tool is used to make a qualitative check if a site is suitable for an SPIS.