Siting and Maintenance of Weather Stations

A number of equipment manufacturers provide weather stations (Figure 1) and software that help the groundskeeper with decisions related to irrigation management. The level of sophistication of this equipment varies, but all systems use the weather station to estimate a parameter known as evapotranspiration (ET). ET is the scientific term for the more common terms water use or consumptive use. Effective utilization of ET information in irrigation management can assist in efforts to manage limited and/or expensive water supplies provided the stations are 1) sited and installed correctly, and 2) properly maintained. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide turf facilities information and guidance on siting and maintenance of automated weather stations.

Revised 9/2010. Originally published: 2001.