If a seasonal lack of water is causing low forage yield or weed competition, and irrigation is possible, then proper irrigation management may be helpful. Key factors in determining the success of an irrigation program are choosing the appropriate system for your situation and irrigation scheduling. This will help to supply adequate but not excessive water, reducing water and power use and eliminating leaching and runoff problems. 

Systems

Irrigation systems should be designed to apply water evenly to avoid places of over or under-application. Water loss through evaporation may also be a concern. The requirements of the irrigation system you choose should match the level of management, labor, and water availability of your farming system. 

Scheduling

A well-planned irrigation schedule will meet the needs of the forage plants while avoiding leaching or runoff of the soluble nutrients that you paid for. Additionally, grazing or machine operations should be timed for when the soil is drier so as to protect the soil from structural damage.