New sports complex irrigation system saves Aviano AB $$$

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. R.J. Biermann
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Aviano Air Base is now one year into a contract that has saved the 31st Fighter Wing nearly $40,000 annually in water costs, by utilizing runoff water from the mountains to irrigate the Area F sports complex and golf course.

The biggest push for the change came from the federal government's direction for bases to reduce their energy and water footprint two percent annually by the end of fiscal year 2015. The switch drove the base eight percent closer to its fiscal year 2014 goal of 14 percent.

"[The federal government's direction was] the main reason we decided to invest money in this project," said Riccardo Antonini, 31st Civil Engineer Squadron energy manager. "We asked the owner of the channel if there was any chance to get the water. He agreed, so the contract was started."

The channel, which runs parallel with the Area F perimeter, delivers runoff water from the mountains to farmers surrounding the base. A valve then allows a steady flow of water into an underground holding tank on base. The water is then filtered to remove dust and dirt particles.

"This helps to ensure the integrity of the irrigation system," Antonini said. "If we allow dust and dirt in the irrigation system it may clog the pipes."

The water is then pumped to the six ball fields and the field inside the running track. A pipe also carries the water to the golf course pump station.

To make the transition, more than eight kilometers of new pipes, 125 sprinklers, new pump stations, an underground holding tank and new automatic controls were installed. The new system also saves the base from wasting more than 18,000 gallons of water annually.

All was easier said than done, according to Antonini.

Because of sports activities, the project had to be completed in stages. Irrigation lines were installed and grass was laid on selected fields while the others were being used. Construction and game play was then rotated to complete the other fields.

"Our outfields are very well maintained," said Jim Emmons, Aviano Youth Program sports director. "For the safety of Airmen and children [who play sports] a good field is important. Also, when the field looks pristine, attitudes are positive. When you're away from your home, sports help to remind us of our inner child, which helps create that positive attitude."

Prior to transitioning to agricultural water for irrigating treated potable water was used. This was done at a cost of $2.20 for 1,000 gallons of water. Today the wing spends only $3,774 annually.