Sigmund Irrigation System Demonstrated

Chronicle (Levin), 10 March 1948, Page 2

Sigmund Irrigation System Demonstrated

. Farmers, market gardeners and other interested persons assemble'd at Mr. H. Moffatt's farm, Waitohu, on Tuesday, to witness a demon■stration on Sigmund irrigation. and its value. It w'as explained that by irrigation earlier crops would resuit - which meant more profits, whereas1 dry weather retarded plants. It was the first appearance oi the plant in New Zealand, and it was far different from other irrigation plants. It was largely instrumental in assisting market gardeners, who relie'd upon crops for the market, and was capahle of irrigating 1000 acres in record time. The system distributed evenly and could be regulated as desired. Experience had proved the value of such irrigation, and many insect pests could be checke'd with a good shower of artificial rain - at the correct time. Thus, watering and cleansing were combined in a simple process. The modern Sigmund irrigation system saved labour and expense, and was the nearest approach to natural rain. Easily manipulated, it was said to be the resuit ' of many years research.

The operation of the machine started automatieally the moment water was, turned on and continue'd as long as desired. On Tuesday a hose was simply , put into the Waitohu and the machine started, and then came "rain" of a very flne nature. The machine is easily transportable and requires but • little time to transfer it from one place to another. Pipe lines . may be laid permanently if desired, but it is more economical to use lightweight surface lines, which can be transferre'd at shortest notice. A self-closing hydrant is the latest development in that it allows rapid connection. The demonstration was watcbed with keen interest.