Topography & drainage mapping
Water runs downhill. Know exactly where.
An elevation model of the farm shows slopes, low spots and the paths water takes — the basis for irrigation layout, drainage, terracing and erosion control.
In rollout — early sites welcomeWhy it matters
Pressure in an irrigation line changes with elevation. Water pools in low spots and carries topsoil off slopes. On hilly farms these effects dominate yield and soil loss, and they are hard to judge by eye.
Method
How we do it
- 1
Fly
Overlapping imagery with ground control.
- 2
Model
Elevation model, contours and flow analysis.
- 3
Design
Findings turned into layout recommendations.
From finding to action
What the results change on the farm
Typical examples of how a finding turns into a decision.
| If the survey finds… | …the decision is |
|---|---|
| Main runs uphill to the far blocks | Zone by elevation so pressure stays even |
| Concentrated flow path across a block | Cut-off drain or grassed waterway |
When to order it
- Before laying out a new farm
- On sloping land with erosion
- Before designing irrigation on hilly ground
Questions
Topography & drainage mapping: FAQ
Is topography mapping available now?
Drone mapping is in rollout. Talk to us about being an early site.
Get your farm mapped.
Mapping is quoted per farm by size and needs no installed equipment. Book a free visit and we will plan the survey with you.