What is the purpose of conducting an irrigation system audit?

• A. To reduce overall labor costs
• B. To assess specific hydrozone water performance
• C. To increase water waste
• D. To change the landscape design

Answer: (B)

Conducting an irrigation system audit is primarily aimed at assessing specific hydrozone water performance. Each hydrozone is an area of the landscape that requires a particular water application rate, tailored to the types of plants and their needs. By auditing an irrigation system, one can evaluate how effectively water is being applied to each hydrozone, which helps identify any inefficiencies or areas requiring adjustments.

When assessing water performance in hydrozones, the audit can reveal issues such as overwatering, underwatering, or uneven distribution of water, leading to better management practices. This understanding is crucial for ensuring that plants receive the right amount of moisture, which not only promotes healthy growth but also conserves water by preventing waste.

In contrast, reducing labor costs, increasing water waste, or changing the landscape design do not directly align with the central goal of an irrigation audit. An effective audit focuses on optimization of existing systems and promoting water efficiency, rather than impacting labor costs, increasing waste, or necessitating design changes unless those aspects emerge as part of a grander strategy during the audit process.