Irrigation Designer Review (CID)

This course deals with topics of water management as it relates to the proper design of an irrigation system. Students will review required site information, irrigation system hydraulics, system component selection, sizing, and placement, electricity as it relates to irrigation design, and proper scheduling practices including soil properties. This class is designed to prepare students for the Irrigation Association Certified Irrigation Designer (CID) exams (step 2, 3, and 4 landscape/turf exam track), focusing on the key areas contractors typically struggle with when preparing for the CID exam. Exam registration is NOT included with class registration. To apply for the exam, please visit the Certification section of the IA web site.

Course Outline


Unit 0 Course Introduction

Unit 1 Gathering Site Information

Unit 2 Hydraulics

Unit 3 Component Selection and Layout

Unit 4 Backflow Prevention

Unit 5 Electricity

Unit 6 Irrigation Scheduling

Unit 7 Class Review and Evaluation

Learning Objectives


Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Gather the requires site information to create an efficient irrigation system design

2. Define static and dynamic pressure and calculate changes in both throughout the irrigation system

3. Properly select, size, and place sprinkler system components on a design

4. Identify common backflow prevention devices used for irrigation systems

5. Design a functional irrigation electrical system

6. Identify parameters required for a water efficient irrigation system schedule

Suggested Prerequisites


  • 3+ years of irrigation industry experience (Required to sit for the Irrigation Association certification exam)
  • Introduction to Irrigation and Installation
  • Landscape Irrigation Design Process
  • Landscape Irrigation Auditor Course