CLA CLA Irrigation & Water Management 2

Question 1

What is 'distribution uniformity' (DU) in irrigation system design?

Accepted Answer

A measure of how evenly water is applied across the irrigated area

Answer

Distribution uniformity (DU) measures how consistently water is applied; a DU of 100% means every point receives exactly the same amount.

Question 2

Which irrigation design principle ensures that all sprinkler heads in a zone have the same precipitation rate to achieve uniform coverage?

Accepted Answer

Matched precipitation rate (MPR)

Answer

Matched precipitation rate design means rotors and fixed sprays in the same zone apply water at the same rate, preventing dry or soggy spots.

Question 3

What is a 'hydrozone' in landscape irrigation planning?

Accepted Answer

A grouping of plants with similar water requirements served by a dedicated irrigation zone

Answer

Hydrozoning groups plants with similar water needs on the same irrigation zone to avoid overwatering drought-tolerant plants or underwatering thirsty ones.

Question 4

What does the acronym 'WUCOLS' stand for, and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

Water Use Classification of Landscape Species — a California reference guide for plant water needs

Answer

WUCOLS (Water Use Classification of Landscape Species) is a California DWR publication that categorizes landscape plants as high, moderate, low, or very low water users.

Question 5

What is the function of a 'master valve' in an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

Acts as a main shutoff that opens only when an irrigation zone is active, preventing leaks when system is off

Answer

A master valve at the main line closes when no zone is running, protecting against leaks from a broken lateral or stuck valve anywhere in the system.

(CLA) Certified Landscape Architect Practice Test

(CLA) Certified Landscape Architect Practice Test

CLA CLA Irrigation & Water Management 2