The soaker system is in failing or failed condition in most areas.  This system was replaced/upgraded a few years back and we think it has simply run its course of usefulness. Being a soaker system, much of the tubing is clogged and or strangled out by roots and years of accumulation of dirt, pollen and the like.

 

We will need to replace most if not all of the soaker system. Fortunately, this is not a huge expense, about $6,000, but we still want to be conservative and careful with our expenses.  To that end, we have asked Sergio to NOT replace all systems in every area carte blanche for a few reasons.

·  We want a targeted drip system not a replacement of the soaker system.

·  Almost every area needs a drip system and not a soaker system.  Drip systems are much more targeted and less wasteful of water.  If soaking is needed, we can simply add a low volume head at less expense.

· There are several areas that don’t need water and only mulch.

· There are other areas that are currently being upgraded or replanted.  The last thing we want to do is install a system in areas that we don’t know for sure what we are planting and exactly when.  In this situation, we would ask Sergio to ensure that a main water supply is installed and made available in the area in question.  Then when the planting is complete, he can come back out and run drip lines in a precise and efficient manner.

· We need to add some higher volume drip systems to trees that are suffering most from drought conditions.  The cost of more water is not much cheaper than the cost of felling dead trees and the environment impact in the future on having said trees strong and healthy.