Fall Irrigation Winterization for Churchill County Properties: Protecting Your System from Lahontan Valley's Harsh Winter

Written By Juan Gallardo

Every Churchill County property owner knows the moment: You wake up to that first hard freeze, usually around mid-October, and realize you forgot to winterize your irrigation system. By then, it might already be too late. Frozen pipes are splitting, sprinkler heads are cracking, and that expensive backflow preventer just became a very costly ice sculpture.

Whether you're managing flood irrigation ditches on agricultural land near Stillwater, maintaining sprinklers in Fallon's residential areas, or operating drip systems for your Lahontan Valley landscaping, proper winterization isn't optional in Churchill County—it's essential. With temperatures that can plunge to -10°F and ground frost reaching 24 inches deep, a single oversight can mean thousands in spring repairs.

This comprehensive guide covers every irrigation type common to Churchill County, from traditional flood systems that have watered our valley for over a century to modern smart sprinklers. You'll learn exactly when and how to winterize based on your specific system and location.

Understanding Churchill County's Unique Irrigation Challenges

Churchill County's irrigation needs are unlike anywhere else in Nevada, shaped by our agricultural heritage, water rights system, and extreme climate variations:

The Lahontan Valley Factor

  • First freeze: Typically October 10-20, but can occur as early as late September

  • Last freeze: Usually May 10-20, creating a short irrigation season

  • Temperature extremes: From 105°F summers to -15°F winter lows

  • Frost depth: Can reach 24-30 inches during severe winters

  • Freeze-thaw cycles: Average of 120+ per winter, stressing system components

Water Systems Unique to Churchill County

  • TCID canal system: Serves agricultural properties with scheduled water delivery

  • Private wells: Common in rural areas, requiring special winterization attention

  • City of Fallon water: Municipal connections with specific backflow requirements

  • Mixed systems: Many properties use multiple water sources seasonally

⚠️ Critical Local Alert: Churchill County's alkaline soil (pH 8.0-8.5) accelerates corrosion in irrigation components. Systems here typically need replacement parts 30% sooner than manufacturer estimates. Winterization is even more critical for preserving already-stressed components.

Timeline: When to Winterize in Churchill County

Churchill County Irrigation Winterization Schedule

September 15-30:

  • Order replacement parts for any needed repairs

  • Schedule professional blowout services (they book fast)

  • Final fertilization through irrigation systems

  • Begin reducing watering frequency

October 1-10:

  • Drain flood irrigation ditches and channels

  • Service and store irrigation pumps

  • Complete final deep watering of trees and shrubs

  • Clean filters and screens

October 10-20 (CRITICAL WINDOW):

  • Complete all system blowouts before first hard freeze

  • Shut down and drain all above-ground components

  • Install insulation on exposed pipes

  • Remove and store hoses and attachments

October 20-31:

  • Final system checks and documentation

  • Winterize backup systems

  • Secure all access points

  • File TCID seasonal shutdown notices if required

November 1+:

  • Monitor for unexpected warm spells that might activate systems

  • Check insulation after wind storms

  • Document any issues for spring repairs

System-Specific Winterization Guides

FLOOD IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Common in: Agricultural areas, older Fallon properties, Stillwater, Lahontan Valley farms

Unique Challenges:

  • TCID water delivery schedules affect shutdown timing

  • Head gates and turnouts prone to freeze damage

  • Concrete checks and weirs crack from freeze-thaw cycles

  • Sediment accumulation complicates drainage

Winterization Steps:

1. Coordinate with TCID (by September 30):

  • Confirm final water delivery date

  • Submit seasonal shutdown documentation

  • Verify your water account status

2. Ditch and Channel Preparation:

  • Remove all temporary dams and checks

  • Clear sediment from channels (critical for spring flow)

  • Grade ditch banks to prevent erosion

  • Remove tumbleweeds and debris that block flow

3. Head Gate and Turnout Maintenance:

  • Clean and lubricate gate mechanisms with waterproof grease

  • Check rubber seals for cracking (alkaline water damage)

  • Prop gates slightly open to prevent freeze-seal

  • Cover mechanisms with insulated boxes if possible

4. Concrete Structure Protection:

  • Seal visible cracks with hydraulic cement before freezing

  • Ensure proper drainage around structures

  • Document any structural concerns for spring repair

5. Siphon Tube and Gated Pipe Storage:

  • Drain completely and allow to dry

  • Store vertically or with ends elevated

  • Apply rubber seal conditioner to gates

  • Stack in covered area protected from UV damage

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Common in: Fallon residential areas, commercial properties, parks, newer developments

Unique Challenges:

  • Churchill County's extreme temperature swings stress PVC connections

  • Alkaline water deposits clog sprinkler heads faster

  • High winds deposit sand in gear drives

  • Caliche layer prevents proper drainage in some areas

Complete Blowout Procedure:

1. Pre-Blowout Preparation:

  • Run each zone for 2 minutes to clear debris

  • Note any heads not functioning properly

  • Mark valve box locations before ground freezes

  • Photograph controller settings for spring

2. Compressor Requirements:

  • Residential (½-¾" pipes): 80-100 PSI, 20-25 CFM minimum

  • Commercial (1-2" pipes): 50-80 PSI, 80+ CFM required

  • Critical: Never exceed 80 PSI for PVC, 50 PSI for poly pipe

3. Zone-by-Zone Blowout Process:

  • Start with highest elevation zones

  • Open manual drain valves

  • Connect compressor to blowout port

  • Activate zone from controller

  • Blow until only air exits (usually 2-3 minutes)

  • Never run compressor without open zone (pipe damage)

  • Repeat for each zone twice

4. Component-Specific Steps:

  • Backflow preventers: Test ports must be opened, device tilted to drain

  • Pump systems: Drain pump housing completely, remove drain plugs

  • Controllers: Switch to "off" or "rain mode," don't disconnect power

  • Rain sensors: Clean and cover, but don't remove

  • Master valves: Manually open and close several times

5. Final Protection:

  • Wrap above-ground pipes with insulation tape

  • Install insulated covers on backflow preventers

  • Apply dielectric grease to wire connections

  • Document any needed repairs with photos

DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Common in: Landscaped areas, gardens, orchards, water-conscious properties

Why Drip Systems Are Vulnerable in Churchill County:

  • Mineral deposits from alkaline water clog emitters

  • Small tubes freeze faster than larger pipes

  • Ground-level placement exposed to temperature extremes

  • Filters require special attention due to sediment loads

Winterization Process:

1. System Flush (Early October):

  • Remove end caps from all lines

  • Run system at full pressure for 5 minutes

  • Flush until water runs clear

  • Replace end caps

2. Filter Maintenance:

  • Remove and clean all filters thoroughly

  • Soak in CLR or vinegar solution for mineral deposits

  • Store filters indoors for winter

  • Install drain plugs in filter housings

3. Air Purge Method:

  • Use only 20-30 PSI (lower than sprinklers)

  • Open ends of drip lines during purge

  • Work in sections to ensure complete drainage

  • Pay special attention to low spots where water collects

4. Emitter Protection:

  • Inspect for mineral buildup and clean or replace

  • Consider removing and storing expensive emitters

  • Cap open emitter locations

  • Document emitter locations for spring reinstallation

5. Poly Tube Care:

  • Loosen tube stakes to allow contraction

  • Drain all water from timers and battery compartments

  • Disconnect and drain pressure regulators

  • Store removable components indoors

Well and Pump Winterization for Rural Churchill County

Many Churchill County properties rely on private wells, requiring special winterization attention:

Shallow Well Pumps (Jet Pumps)

  • Drain pump housing completely via drain plug

  • Pour RV antifreeze in pump housing if heated area not available

  • Disconnect and drain pressure tank

  • Remove and store pressure gauge

  • Insulate exposed pipes with heat tape and foam

Submersible Well Pumps

  • Install freeze-proof yard hydrants with proper drainage

  • Insulate wellhead with specialized covers

  • Drain any above-ground piping

  • Consider installing a pump house heater for extreme cold

  • Test low-water cutoff switch before winter

Pressure Tank Systems

  • Check bladder pressure (typically 2 PSI below cut-in)

  • Drain if located in unheated area

  • Service pressure switch contacts

  • Insulate or relocate to heated space

💡 Local Pro Tip: Churchill County's water table fluctuates significantly. Mark your static water level in fall—if your well struggles in late summer, winterization is the perfect time to consider deepening or hydrofracking, as contractors are less busy and ground conditions are ideal.

Cost Analysis: DIY vs. Professional Winterization

ServiceDIY CostProfessional CostRisk if SkippedResidential Sprinkler (8 zones)$50-100 (compressor rental)$75-125$2,000-5,000 damageLarge Property (15+ zones)$100-150 (equipment)$150-250$5,000-10,000 damageDrip System$25-40$50-75$500-1,500 damageFlood IrrigationTime only$200-400$1,000-3,000 damageWell Pump System$30-50$100-150$3,000-6,000 damageBackflow Preventer$20 (insulation)$40-60$600-1,200 damage

⚠️ Insurance Warning: Most homeowner's policies in Churchill County exclude freeze damage to irrigation systems if "reasonable care" wasn't taken to prevent it. Document your winterization with photos and keep receipts—you may need proof for claims.

Common Winterization Mistakes in Churchill County

The Costly Errors We See Every Spring

1. "It's still warm in October"
Churchill County can go from 75°F to 25°F in 24 hours. First freeze dates are averages—prepare early.

2. "I'll just drain the water"
Gravity draining leaves water in low spots. Our freeze-thaw cycles turn that water into pipe-splitting ice.

3. "The backflow preventer will be fine"
These devices trap water internally. They're often the most expensive component to replace ($600-1,500).

4. "I turned off the controller"
Battery backup systems can activate valves. Switch to "off" or "rain mode," don't just unplug.

5. "My neighbor said 100 PSI is fine"
Over-pressurization shatters PVC fittings internally. Damage might not appear until spring activation.

6. "I winterized last weekend"
One warm day can auto-activate systems, refilling pipes. Check after winterization during warm spells.

Emergency Procedures: When You're Too Late

If freezing weather arrives before winterization:

Immediate Damage Control

  • Turn off water immediately at the main or pump

  • Open all manual drains even if frozen

  • Run zones briefly if above 32°F to move water

  • Apply heat tape to exposed pipes (don't use torches)

  • Document visible damage for insurance

  • Call professionals for emergency winterization

Thawing Frozen Systems

  • Wait for natural thawing if possible

  • Use hair dryers or heat lamps on metal components

  • Never use open flames on any irrigation parts

  • Wrap pipes with hot water-soaked towels

  • Open faucets to relieve pressure as thawing occurs

Spring Reactivation Planning

Proper winterization makes spring startup easier. During winterization:

Documentation Checklist

  • Photograph controller settings and schedules

  • Map valve box locations with GPS or markers

  • Note any repairs needed

  • Record static water levels in wells

  • List replacement parts to order

  • Schedule spring activation service

Churchill County Winterization Resources

Equipment Rental:

  • Home Depot Fallon: Compressor rental $65-85/day

  • Fallon Rental & Supply: Industrial compressors available

  • Neighbor's Equipment: Specialized irrigation tools

Parts and Supplies:

  • Irrigation Specialists of Nevada: Complete winterization supplies

  • Ace Hardware Fallon: Insulation, heat tape, basic parts

  • Napa Auto Parts: Antifreeze for pump systems

Professional Services:

  • Schedule by October 1st—services book up fast

  • Get written quotes including guarantee terms

  • Verify insurance and Churchill County licensing

  • Ask about spring activation package deals

Information:

  • TCID Office: (775) 423-2141 for canal shutdown schedules

  • City of Fallon Utilities: (775) 423-5104 for backflow requirements

  • Churchill County Building Dept: Permit requirements for system modifications

  • UNR Cooperative Extension: Free irrigation efficiency consultations

Special Considerations for Churchill County Agriculture

Alfalfa Field Systems

  • Wheel lines: Jack up and block to prevent freezing to ground

  • Hand lines: Drain and stack with caps protecting threads

  • Pivot systems: Drain and exercise monthly through winter

  • Check TCID delivery schedules for spring startup planning

Pasture and Livestock Areas

  • Install freeze-proof hydrants for winter watering

  • Insulate or heat stock tank supply lines

  • Maintain emergency water access for animals

  • Drain and clean automatic waterers

Orchard and Vineyard Systems

  • Micro-sprinklers need individual checking

  • Consider leaving minimal water for frost protection capabilities

  • Document any cold damage to plants during winterization

  • Plan for early spring frost protection needs

Ultimate Churchill County Winterization Checklist

❄️ 4 Weeks Before First Freeze (Mid-September):

  • ☐ Schedule professional services

  • ☐ Order replacement parts

  • ☐ Test all zones and note problems

  • ☐ Check TCID shutdown schedule

❄️ 2 Weeks Before First Freeze (Late September):

  • ☐ Final fertilization through system

  • ☐ Reduce watering frequency

  • ☐ Clean filters and screens

  • ☐ Purchase winterization supplies

❄️ 1 Week Before First Freeze (Early October):

  • ☐ Complete final deep watering

  • ☐ Begin draining flood systems

  • ☐ Service pumps and motors

  • ☐ Photograph system settings

❄️ Winterization Week (Mid-October):

  • ☐ Blow out all zones twice

  • ☐ Drain backflow preventers

  • ☐ Insulate exposed components

  • ☐ Store removable parts indoors

  • ☐ Set controllers to winter mode

  • ☐ Document completed work

❄️ Post-Winterization (Late October+):

  • ☐ Check after warm spells

  • ☐ Monitor forecast for extreme cold

  • ☐ Verify insurance documentation

  • ☐ Schedule spring activation

The Bottom Line: Protect Your Investment

In Churchill County, irrigation isn't just about keeping things green—it's often essential for property value, agricultural production, and even fire suppression. Your irrigation system represents thousands of dollars in infrastructure that can be destroyed by a single hard freeze. The few hours and modest cost of proper winterization pale in comparison to emergency repairs in frozen ground come February.

Whether you're managing hundreds of acres of flood-irrigated farmland or a residential lot in Fallon, the message is the same: winterize early, winterize thoroughly, and document everything. Our high desert climate is unforgiving to the unprepared, but with proper fall maintenance, your system will be ready to spring back to life when the TCID water starts flowing again.

Remember: the best time to winterize was yesterday. The second-best time is today. Don't wait for that first freeze warning—by then, everyone else is scrambling too.

Professional Irrigation Winterization for Churchill County

Juanito's Land Management provides complete irrigation winterization services throughout Churchill County.

From flood irrigation systems to modern smart sprinklers, we understand the unique challenges of protecting irrigation infrastructure in the Lahontan Valley. Our certified technicians use professional-grade equipment and follow manufacturer specifications to ensure your system survives Nevada's harsh winter.

📞 Call now to schedule your winterization service
✉️ Email: [your email]
🌐 Visit: [your website]

Our Services Include:
• Complete system blowout with commercial compressors
• Backflow preventer winterization
• Pump and well system protection
• Flood irrigation shutdown and maintenance
• Emergency winterization services
• Spring activation packages

Special October Pricing: Book your winterization service by October 1st and save 15% on spring activation!

Serving Fallon, Stillwater, Lahontan Valley, and all of Churchill County since [year]

Juan Gallardo
Next

Preventing Wind Erosion on Your Fallon, Nevada Property: A Complete Guide for High Desert Land Management