Extension's Master Irrigator Program is a structured, science-based training designed for homeowners, landscape professionals, Master Gardeners and water-conscious community members who want to strengthen their irrigation knowledge and practical skills.
Throughout the program, participants gain hands-on, field-ready skills and practical decision-making tools that translate irrigation science into real-world application. Emphasis is placed on reducing water waste, improving plant performance and promoting sustainable landscape management — especially in water-limited environments. This program is ideal for people who want to move beyond basic irrigation knowledge and develop confidence in designing, evaluating and maintaining efficient irrigation systems.
Upon successful completion of the required coursework, participants receive a Certificate of Completion for each individual course. Participants who successfully complete all three courses will be awarded a Master Irrigator Certificate, recognizing advanced training in irrigation principles and system management.
Irrigation 101
The program begins with Irrigation 101, a foundational course introducing soil–water–plant relationships, irrigation system types, basic hydraulics and principles of water-efficient management. Participants build a strong understanding of how water moves through soil, how plants respond to irrigation practices and how proper scheduling supports plant health while preventing waste.
Irrigation 101 focuses on:
- Soil–water foundations
- Irrigation development and water context
- Irrigation system types and selection principles
- Introductory design, installation and water efficiency
After completing Irrigation 101, participants advance into two upper-intermediate specialization tracks.
Drip Irrigation Track (201)
Focuses on:
- Drip irrigation science and root-zone hydrology
- Drip system components and filtration
- Hydraulics and flow calculations
- Layout design and zoning strategy
- Installation best practices
- Irrigation scheduling, troubleshooting and maintenance
Sprinkler Irrigation Track (202)
Focuses on:
- Review of irrigation principles and sprinkler irrigation basics
- Sprinkler irrigation system components
- Types of sprinkler heads
- Precipitation rate and irrigation uniformity
- Irrigation scheduling and water management
- System evaluation and troubleshooting
Program learning objectives
By the end of the Master Irrigator Program, participants will be able to:
- Explain soil–water–plant relationships and how they influence irrigation scheduling and plant performance.
- Differentiate between drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, including appropriate applications, advantages and limitations.
- Perform basic irrigation calculations, including precipitation rate, application rate, run time and water budgeting.
- Design efficient irrigation layouts based on plant type, soil characteristics and landscape zoning (hydrozoning principles).
- Select appropriate system components, including emitters, sprinkler heads, valves, filters and pressure regulators.
- Develop water-efficient irrigation schedules that reduce runoff, deep percolation and evaporation losses.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot common irrigation system problems, including pressure issues, uneven distribution, clogging and overspray.
- Implement maintenance strategies that improve system longevity and water-use efficiency.
