United States Department of Veterans Affairs
United States Department of Veterans Affairs

Burial & Memorials

Site Elements/Features - Irrigation System

Irrigation is usually necessary to keep the landscape at an aesthetically pleasing level. Although sufficient rainfall may be received to sustain indigenous plants, situations involving introduced species or plants in stressful conditions may require irrigation. Evaluate the landscape environment, including turf grasses, and determine whether an irrigation system should be installed in the cemetery. The report should include a cost analysis of irrigation versus non-irrigation, on-site and off-site water supply sources including quality of available water, annual rainfall and the quantity of water needed to sustain healthy plants. If an irrigation system is recommended, design and specify an efficient irrigation system that is automated, easily operated and maintained by cemetery staff. Irrigation lateral lines in burial sections should run parallel with the length of the gravesites.