Project Category: Irrigation

Moor Park Golf Club, known for its iconic High and West Courses and surrounding grounds, undertook a significant project to upgrade its irrigation system in 2022 to ensure exceptional playing conditions for its members all year round. Partnering with Ocmis and Irritech Limited, the club set out to install a new Rain Bird irrigation system designed to enhance efficiency, conserve vital resources, and safeguard the club’s legacy for future generations.

The project went through a rigorous tender process, which involved a comprehensive evaluation of potential contractors based on their technical expertise, industry reputation and ability to tailor solutions to the club’s specific requirements. Ocmis emerged as the preferred contractor due to their innovative approach, proven track record and commitment to delivering high-quality installations.

The installation of the new irrigation system at Moor Park Golf Club presented a significant challenge; upgrading the infrastructure across 36 holes of the High and West Courses while adhering to a strict programme and minimising disruption to the club’s members. The project was approached with meticulous planning to carefully manage the installation so that the course remained accessible and playable throughout the install.

For the installation of the pipework and cabling, Ocmis called upon their new Ditchwitch mole plough from their expanding fleet of machinery. Using this type of machine allowed for a rapid and efficient installation with minimal surface disruption even with the ground conditions. This technique ensured that the pipework and cable was installed to the required depth, leaving very minimal visible trace of the installation of which was commented on and commended by members throughout the install. As a result, the pristine appearance of the course was preserved throughout the process, meeting the club’s high standards.

Even with 40km of pipework and over 1800 sprinklers installed throughout the upgrade, Ocmis successfully completed the installation on schedule. Strategic scheduling and clear communication with the club’s management ensured minimal disruption with daily operations, allowing members to continue enjoying the course without interference. The seamless execution not only demonstrated Ocmis’ technical expertise but also reinforced their commitment to customer satisfaction.

The system since install has brought a range of significant benefits to Moor Park Golf Club. The system’s advanced technology ensures a precise water distribution promoting healthier turf and excellent playing conditions across all 36 holes. With automated scheduling and remote monitoring capabilities of the Cirrus Pro software, it reduces the need for manual intervention which frees up valuable resources and labour. Additionally, the improved water and energy efficiency has led to notable cost savings for the club which in the current climate is crucial for any business.

The successful installation of the new irrigation system at Moor Park Golf Club by Ocmis underlines the importance of investing in modern irrigation technology to meet the demands of maintaining a high-quality golf course. The whole installation was a seamless and advanced process from tender to the commissioning and handover which has now left Moor Park Golf Club with an irrigation system it can be proud of.

Truro City Football Club, a semi-professional team from Cornwall, recently celebrated their long-awaited return to their hometown with the opening of a new stadium, after years of playing away. In 2023, Ocmis were appointed as the sub-contractor responsible for designing and installing a new irrigation system at the Truro Sports Hub Stadium.

Ocmis took on the complete irrigation system design, ensuring it met the specific requirements of the client. From initial consultations to detailed planning, we meticulously calculated every aspect, including the pipe network sizing, water storage tank, infill rate, and pump set manifold. Ocmis also accounted for important factors like water availability and efficient distribution, ensuring optimal pitch conditions. The result was an advanced irrigation system that maintains a high-quality playing surface, enhancing player performance and solidifying Truro City’s reputation for having one of the best pitches in their division.

The project faced a strict deadline, as the irrigation system needed to be fully operational well before the new season began to allow the pitch time to properly establish. Ocmis worked closely with the main contractor, coordinating schedules to seamlessly integrate the installation into the broader construction plan. This ensured the system was delivered on time, leaving the pitch in pristine condition for Truro City’s first home game of the season.

Established in 1909, Northamptonshire County Golf Club in Church Brampton is a renowned venue, hosting events like the regional qualifiers for The Open Championship and County Pro-Am tournaments. The club’s course is a classic heathland layout and is ranked among the Top 100 Golf Clubs in the UK.

To enhance the course’s maintenance and playability, the club engaged Adrian Mortram of AMA Associates to design a comprehensive irrigation system. This design included full irrigation coverage to the greens, tees, surrounds, approaches and fairways.

Ocmis were selected by the club to install the new system. The system utilised Toro irrigation equipment, including the top-serviceable Infinity sprinklers throughout the course, as well as the Flex-35B sprinklers for certain tees and PRN-TA sprinklers along the walkways.

The installation took place during the winter of 2022, with close collaboration between Ocmis and Rob Hay, the course manager. In addition to the course irrigation, Ocmis designed and installed a new transfer system, which draws water from the nearby river to the club’s existing reservoir. A filtration system was integrated to prevent debris from entering the system, while a dry-sited pump and controls were installed in compliance with the club’s water abstraction license.

This irrigation upgrade ensures Northamptonshire County Golf Club maintains it’s high standards while operating efficiently and sustainably.

Lahinch Golf Club stands as a beloved destination for golfers worldwide. Since its establishment in 1892, it has offered a timeless golfing experience against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. With its challenging layout of undulating fairways, deep bunkers and unpredictable coastal winds, Lahinch tests player’s skills at every turn. In 2023, the club embarked on upgrading their irrigation system for the Old Course, partnering with Adrian Mortram Associates (AMA) and Ocmis.

Recognising the need to modernise its irrigation system, Lahinch Golf Club, with the expertise of AMA, aimed to enhance course maintenance amid the rugged terrain and Atlantic climate. Ocmis was chosen through a tender process to install a new Rain Bird system, leveraging advanced technology to optimise water usage and course performance.

Ocmis collaborated closely with Lahinch Golf Club and AMA to implement the advanced irrigation system. Utilizing Rain Bird’s new technology, precision nozzles, a weather station and Cirrus Pro central control software was installed to maximise water efficiency and course performance, tailored to Lahinch’s unique landscape.

Executing with precision, Ocmis overcame challenges posed by the course’s topography and coastal environment. The installation team seamlessly integrated the Rain Bird system, meeting design specifications and project timelines, exceeding Lahinch Golf Club’s expectations.

Throughout the project, Ocmis diligently navigated logistical challenges, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure. Planning for future needs, such as potential pump installations for additional courses, showcased Ocmis’ forward-thinking approach to minimise future costs for the client.

The installation of the new Rain Bird system has transformed the Old Course, yielding tangible benefits in sustainability and playability. Ocmis’ installation significantly reduced water consumption, leading to cost savings and environmental conservation. Improved turf health has enhanced the overall golfing experience for members.

The collaboration between Ocmis, Lahinch Golf Club and AMA highlights Ocmis’ commitment to sustainability in golf course management. By installing new technology with care and precision, Ocmis has not only helped Lahinch achieve sustainability goals but also elevated the playability and aesthetic appeal of the Old Course, ensuring its quality for years to come and further enhancing its position in the Top 100 Golf Courses Worldwide.

Gleneagles Golf Club, located in Auchterarder, Scotland, is renowned for its world-class golf courses, including the PGA Centenary Course. In preparation for the 2024 season, Gleneagles Golf Club awarded Ocmis the contract to install a comprehensive irrigation system covering Greens, Tees, Approaches, Fairways, and Walkways. Recognizing the importance of effective irrigation, Ocmis demonstrated its commitment to meeting client needs by adapting and installing a brand-new irrigation pump set in March 2023, well ahead of the full system installation.

Ocmis displayed its unwavering commitment to meeting the client’s needs by installing the new irrigation pump set ahead of schedule. This proactive approach allowed Gleneagles Golf Club to cope with the demands of the summer of 2023, ensuring the course remained in excellent condition even before the full irrigation system was implemented.

Designed by Adrian Mortram, the irrigation system required the pump set to deliver 110 cubic metres per hour at a pressure of 118 metres. Two separate delivery outlets were installed to accommodate the varying ground levels in relation to the irrigation pump set. One outlet required the installation of 16 bar pipework spanning numerous holes to ensure sufficient irrigation, while the other featured a pressure regulating valve allowing for a maximum pressure of 10 bar to serve the remainder of the course.

Manufactured by Ocmis at our workshops in Somerset, the irrigation pump set featured stainless-steel manifolds tailored to accommodate the unique requirement of having two separate feeds to the course. The pump set was designed to draw water from an existing sump chamber linked to a reservoir providing plenty of water for the irrigation system.

The installation of the irrigation pump set along with a brand-new Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) pumphouse serves as a testament to Ocmis’s dedication to its clients. This installation highlights the importance of proactive problem-solving and adaptability in delivering successful golf course irrigation projects.

Ocmis will return in October 2023 to complete the remaining works for the irrigation system to the Greens, Tees, Approaches, Fairways, and Walkways on the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles Golf Club.

Wellingborough Golf Club situated in Northamptonshire, is an 18-hole championship golf course designed to cater to golfers of all skill levels with superb golfing facilities. The club’s dedication to maintaining impeccable greens, tees, and approaches led them to partner with Ocmis and Irriplan for their irrigation system installation in 2023.

Ocmis’ first introduction to Wellingborough Golf Club was through a tender process led by Irriplan Ltd. Ocmis put together a tender package to ensure all parties were satisfied with the works with a project timeline being planned for a winter installation in 2023.

When reviewing the project timelines, it became apparent that there was a gap in our program that suited a spring/summer installation. After many discussions with the club to see if there was an opportunity to fit this installation in during the club’s busiest time of the year, Ocmis was awarded the contract to install a brand-new Rain Bird irrigation system to the Greens, Tees, and Approaches.

Due to the club having many club competitions taking place throughout the summer, Ocmis collaborated closely with Wellingborough Golf Club to ensure the course was left in pristine condition during our installation works to ensure that member and visitor experience was not impacted.

Our installation commenced in late May 2023 with completion targeted for the first week of July. The project, which included 10km of pipework and nearly 400 sprinklers was completed and signed off in just under 40 days!

Installing an irrigation system at Wellingborough Golf Club during the peak summer months in a remarkable 40-day timeframe provided substantial benefits for both the club and Ocmis. For the golf club, this swift installation ensured that their greens, tees, and approaches received timely and consistent watering, mitigating the challenges posed by dry and hot conditions. As a result, the playing surfaces flourished, which solidified the club’s reputation for impeccable course conditions. This prompt installation also enabled the club to continue its operations with very minimal disruption, a vital factor during the peak golfing season.

For Ocmis, successfully executing the installation within this tight timeframe showcased our efficiency and technical prowess. The swift completion highlighted our commitment to meeting client needs and delivering results promptly.

The installation of the irrigation system stands as a resounding success, leaving both the client and club members thoroughly pleased. The transformed greens, tees, and approaches brought to life by the irrigation system reflect a commitment from Wellingborough Golf Club to maintaining the highest standards for its members and visitors. The collaboration between Ocmis and the club ensured that the project was executed swiftly and seamlessly whilst leaving an irrigation system for the golf club to cherish for many years to come.

Luffness New Golf Club, a prestigious golfing destination known for its rich history and impeccable course, faced significant challenges with its aging irrigation system.

The existing system was outdated, plagued with leaks and unreliable, leading to inconsistent water distribution and increased maintenance costs. To address these issues, the club decided to invest in a brand-new irrigation system.
They consulted with irrigation designer Adrian Mortram of Adrian Mortram Associates, upon reviewing the existing irrigation system, it became evident that the club needed a comprehensive upgrade to maintain the high standards of their golf course. The key issues that prompted the decision were: –

• Water Inefficiency – The old system’s leaks and inefficiencies led to water wastage which not only impacted the course’s condition but also resulted in higher running costs.
• Increased Maintenance Costs – Frequent repairs and maintenance of the outdated system diverted resources and manpower from other critical maintenance tasks. 

Luffness New Golf Club elected to use Rain Bird equipment for their full fairway irrigation system including the latest CirrusPRO Central Control software which offered advanced water management capabilities. It allowed for precise control over watering schedules, considering factors like weather, soil moisture and course layout. This efficient water management led to reduced water consumption and lower costs. The new system’s advanced diagnostics and real-time monitoring capabilities made maintenance more straightforward. Installation also included a brand-new water storage tank which is replenished by a borehole system and can store a whole 24-hour irrigation supply. 

Once OCMIS were awarded the project, they collaborated closely with the irrigation consultant. While the consultant had the primary role in the design process, OCMIS worked in tandem with him to ensure the design could be successfully implemented during installation. OCMIS drawing on their extensive experience in irrigation system installation, meticulously executed the installation based on the design. They set out the sprinklers and valve boxes precisely, ensuring optimal water distribution across the golf course. 

 Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the consultant and OCMIS, the installation of the brand-new Rain Bird irrigation system was completed on time and within the agreed budget. OCMIS’s active involvement in the project contributed to its smooth execution leaving the club’s members highly impressed with the results. Multiple compliments were received praising the expertise and professionalism shown by OCMIS throughout.

‘The work ethic of the OCMIS workforce under the management of Bill McIsaac was exceptional, working full days from before dawn to after dusk throughout. The quality of the workmanship was very evident.’ – Peter Grant (Club Captain) 

The decision to invest in a brand-new Rain Bird irrigation system and partner with Adrian Mortram and OCMIS proved to be a winning combination for Luffness New Golf Club. The club successfully addressed the challenges posed by their old irrigation system and reaped numerous rewards from this well-planned investment. With a highly efficient and reliable irrigation system in place, the golf course is poised to maintain its excellence, satisfy its members, and further solidify its reputation as a premier golfing destination along with having a system that will leave a legacy at the club for many years. 

Such an iconic and individual site required a high tech and advanced irrigation system. Each part of the system can be individually controlled to very precise measurements enabling such a complex environment to be carefully monitored.

The three world areas – tropics, warm temperature and outside spaces – are each accounted for and the highly advanced system results in minimal waste.

Ocmis installed the irrigation systems to the Olympic North Park and Eton Manor as part of the major construction works in the run up to the games. The project was so large and complex that several landscape contractors were working on the site simultaneously to ensure the deadline was met. Ocmis were given the responsibility of installing the irrigation system across all three of the North Park work zones, working with different contractors in each area and ensuring the soft landscape had water available as soon as it was planted.

The North Park is divided by the River Lea running north to south; the A12 running east to west separates the Eton Manor site from the main park. The site wide non-potable water main is operated by Thames Water and supplies high quality treated water from the nearby sewage treatment plant. This system supplies water for irrigation, toilet flushing and other non-potable applications in the surrounding buildings.

Ocmis fitted separate automatic pump stations to each of the three areas to provide enough flow and pressure for the irrigation system. The pumps automatically regulate the flow into the irrigation main depending on demand.

29,000 metres of underground pipe work was installed as the construction works progressed. The pipe work was laid as the complex landforms were constructed, with the control cables installed alongside the pipe. The works were carefully sequenced with the installation of other services, construction haul roads, bridge, road, path installations and many other factors, all to a critical programme.

The irrigation controllers allow the maintenance teams to easily adjust the amounts and frequency of irrigation. The systems were programmed with run time data based on the application rates for each area; adjustment of this ensures quick and accurate scheduling to minimise water use. The shrubs, trees, lawns and meadows all have different water requirements depending on the aspect and location.

Ocmis installed the systems with our own directly employed installation teams to ensure quality and continuity throughout the park. With 1100 sprinklers, 52,000 metres of drip pipe and 1200 trees to irrigate, benchmarking, good working practices, communication and work scheduling were key to delivering the schemes on time.

Ocmis installed the irrigation system for the Athletes Village public realm during the construction of the village. It was a complex series of contracts working with a number of separate contractors to install one unified irrigation system.

The irrigation system was spread through the whole site, and Ocmis worked with seven construction and landscape contractors to deliver eleven separate contracts across the public realm. The infrastructure for the system crossed over all the work areas, with mainline pipe and cable being laid along the streets and terminated in the soft landscape areas. This phase of the installation was part of a site wide Earthworks package, installed as the levels were finalised and before each area was handed over to the finishing contractor. Ocmis then connected to the mainline as part of the follow-on contracts and continued the system into the finished landscape as part of the soft landscape works.

Water for the irrigation system was harvested from site run off and treated through the ponds, reed beds and an aeration system in the wetlands. Once treated, the water is used for irrigation, toilet flushing and to circulate through the feature ponds in the village landscape. As well as the irrigation, Ocmis also installed the Wetlands aeration system, the pond re-circulation system and the grey water supply to Chobham Academy as part of the works.

The shrubs and trees are irrigated using pressure compensated drip to ensure uniform application rates and avoid water loss. Lawn areas are irrigated with 310 sprinklers and spray heads, there is 20,000 metres of drip pipe and the whole system is controlled through 141 solenoid valves across the site.

The site wide system is supplied through pumps and filters in the wetlands plant room and a central irrigation control system. The irrigation in each of the landscaped areas is connected to the controls through a wire path laid with the mainline pipe. The distribution of water around the village is controlled by the maintenance team from the plant room, where they can adjust application rates to suit the different areas.

The technical challenges together with the logistics and tight programme meant this was a demanding project. Good site communication and experienced Ocmis installation staff ensured the system was installed on time and on budget.