Planning an irrigation borehole requires careful consideration before drilling begins. For farmers in Zimbabwe, the water requirements of the farming operation should be understood first, including the size of the irrigated area, crop types, crop water requirements, irrigation method and irrigation schedule.

Groundwater conditions can vary from one property to another, so borehole depth and water yield should not simply be assumed based on a nearby borehole. A proper site assessment can provide useful information about the geological conditions and help determine an appropriate drilling location.

Borehole yield is another important consideration for irrigation farming. Finding water during drilling is only one stage of the process. Yield testing can provide information about how much water the completed borehole can provide under defined conditions and can support decisions about pumping and water management.

Pump selection should also be based on the characteristics of the completed borehole and the irrigation system. Factors such as borehole depth, water level, required flow rate, available power supply, borehole yield and irrigation requirements need to be considered.

Water storage can form another important part of the agricultural water system. Depending on farm requirements, storage tanks or reservoirs can help manage irrigation schedules, peak demand, pumping periods, water distribution and temporary power interruptions.

Farmers should also consider future expansion when planning an irrigation borehole. Changes in irrigated acreage or the introduction of additional crops can increase future water requirements. Planning for these possibilities can help ensure that current decisions do not unnecessarily limit future agricultural needs.

Venture Boreholes provides borehole solutions for agricultural and irrigation projects in Zimbabwe, with an approach focused on understanding the property's requirements and developing the drilling and water solution around those needs.

The goal is not simply to drill a borehole, but to plan a water supply system in which the borehole, pump, storage, distribution and irrigation components work together to support the farming operation.