Either one and it all depends on the size to be irrigated, the amount if use, type of plants (a lot of grass or all plants with mulch ground cover?), or a vegetable garden?. With the lake source you can use an irrigation pump that does not require a pressure tank. Some just drop a two wire submersible into the water, and getting electric to the pump can be a challenge, but your number one issue is the winter freeze.
- With either source of water winterizing the system needs to be considered.
- At the lake a submersible the pump may need to be removed each winter if the take up cannot be placed deep enough under the ice. With an above ground irrigation is needs to be removed or completely drained. The pipe leading to the lake may be able to remain for the winter.
- If spigots are wanted around the garden for hose use, then a pressure tank is needed with the right type pump.
- With a pump for lake w
- The well is for domestic use and adding an irrigation system to it may over tax the domestic side with low pressure while in use.
- If it is an existing well, can it handle constant pumping (recovery)?
- If it's going to be a new well, depending on the depth of the well and the water table may be a expensive issue.
- If a well has a lot of clear water iron it can make a mess of things as it oxidizes.
Upstate NY the weather is usually not hot and dry for very long where you do not need a lot of water. Grass in the full sun takes more water than established plants. Flowers once established take far less water. For the most part most homeowners over water.
There is no simple answer. Cost wise using your domestic well may do the job if the well can handle it. If you go with your well you should consider installing a CSV.
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