Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

Where should you observe water runoff when conducting an irrigation audit?

1. The best-drained area

2. The average area of the site

3. The worst-case area

4. The area with the most vegetation

The correct answer is: The worst-case area

Observing water runoff in the worst-case area is vital during an irrigation audit because it provides critical insights into the potential challenges the irrigation system faces. This area is typically characterized by poor drainage, excessive runoff, or uneven distribution of water. By focusing on this location, you can identify issues such as water pooling, erosion, or inadequate coverage, which may indicate that the irrigation system is over- or underapplying water. Analyzing the performance in the worst-case area allows for a better assessment of the system's efficiency and effectiveness under the least favorable conditions. It can reveal critical information that may not be as apparent in better-drained or average areas, where the system may appear to be functioning adequately despite underlying issues. In contrast, looking at the best-drained area might not highlight deficiencies observable in less favorable conditions, and examining only the average area could provide a limited understanding of the system's overall performance. Additionally, while observing the area with the most vegetation may indicate where the water is utilized well, it does not directly address potential runoff and water distribution problems. Therefore, the worst-case area is the most informative section to monitor for an accurate evaluation of the irrigation system's functionality.