On March 12, Rain Bird hosted the Irrigation Pro Summit in New Jersey, bringing together industry professionals to share insights and experience. During the event, the Sprinkler Nerd Podcast recorded a special three-part series, hosted by Andy Humphrey, featuring conversations with irrigation experts on the evolution of irrigation technology, systems, and innovation.

Episode 1: Looking Back and Moving Forward
Andy sat down with Walter Mugavin, owner of Aqua Mist Irrigation, to explore how the industry has changed over the past 50+ years. The discussion covered:

• What irrigation systems looked like in the late 1960s 
• The evolution of controllers and sprinkler technology 
• Pump stations and stormwater irrigation systems 
• The role of hydraulics in irrigation design 
• Key lessons from decades in the field 

Episode 2: Insights from the Field
In the second episode, Andy was joined by several contractors who shared real-world perspectives:

• Steve Pereira from Quench Irrigation discussed water management, smart controllers, and the growing role of sensors and connected technology 
• Travis child from Morgans Irrigation and Andy Childs from Landscape Maintenance Services shared insights from years of installing and troubleshooting systems 
• Alex Morgans from Morgans Irrigation highlighted how businesses are using automation, CRM systems, and new service models to improve operations and customer communication 

Episode 3: Shaping the Future with Rain Bird
The final episode featured members of the Rain Bird team discussing how product innovation is influenced by contractor feedback. Rain Bird experts included:

• Steve Barendt, senior product manager 
• Maggie Saulsby, senior product manager 

• Matt Cooper, contractor account manager 

  Together, they explored how collaboration with contractors helps shape the future of irrigation technology.

  Listen to the full podcast: The Sprinkler Nerd Show | Sprinkler Nerd Podcast - #1 Podcast for Irrigation Technology & Landscape Entrepreneurs

  Part 1

  Part 2

  Part 3