Natural grass pitch Rotterdam Ellemare
Sportcomplex Ellemare, the home ground of korfball club c.k.c. T.H.O.R., features a large natural grass field surrounded by several apartment blocks and a senior care facility. The field covers nearly 4,000 square meters.
Due to its location between buildings, watering the field during dry periods proved difficult, which caused considerable challenges. To bridge these dry periods without relying on overhead irrigation, a Permavoid capillary irrigation system was installed.
The applied Permavoid 170 units, topped with a layer of approximately 30 centimeters, provide not only a stable foundation but also a water buffer of more than 600,000 liters. This water is supplied to the natural grass through passive sub-surface irrigation. The capillary cones transport the water vertically to the grass, which naturally absorbs it as needed.
The field conditions are monitored using Rainup PRO sensors. These sensors provide 24/7 insights into the soil moisture levels within the BlueLay and the water level in the Permavoid system. This data can be used to enable comprehensive water management, ensuring that water is supplied exactly when needed.
This innovative system makes it possible to sustain the grass field even during extended periods of drought.
