Survey & design

MCA’s Survey and Design process ensures accuracy, collaboration, and efficiency from initial contact through to project delivery.

1. Project Enquiry: Contact the MCA Survey and Design team with details of your proposed project. Our team will discuss your objectives and determine the most suitable approach for your needs.
2. Elevation Survey Acquisition: An appropriate elevation survey is conducted using the most effective method for your project — such as aerial LiDAR or on-farm topographical survey.
3. Survey Delivery and Review: Once the survey data has been processed and surfaced, an MCA team member will host a delivery meeting. During this session, the survey results are reviewed in detail, and clients can provide input or highlight specific design considerations.
4. Design Development: Our design team models an initial concept, often providing multiple design options to balance functionality, efficiency, and budget expectations.
5. Design Presentation and Feedback: The initial design is presented for client review and feedback. Any requested refinements are then incorporated to achieve the desired outcome.
6. Final Design and Deliverables: The final design is produced to implementation standard. Machine control files and detailed design reports — including earthworks statistics — are provided. These deliverables can be used for budgeting, quoting, and guiding construction implementation.

Engaging MCA’s Precision Ag services for effective farm drainage design is fundamental for several reasons:

1. Improved Soil Health: Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root diseases and reduced soil aeration. Well-drained soil promotes healthy root growth and nutrient uptake, resulting in stronger and more productive crops.
2. Enhanced Crop Yield: Excess water can stress plants and reduce yields. By removing excess moisture, drainage systems create optimal growing conditions, leading to higher and more consistent crop yields.
3. Timely Field Operations: Good drainage allows for timely field operations such as planting, spraying, cultivating, and harvesting. Wet and waterlogged fields can delay these activities, negatively impacting the entire growing season and ultimately affecting profitability.
4. Erosion Control: Properly designed drainage systems can help manage surface water flow, reducing soil erosion and nutrient runoff. This preserves topsoil and maintains soil fertility, which is essential for long-term agricultural productivity.
5. Pest and Disease Management: Wet conditions can create favourable environments for pests and diseases. Effective drainage reduces the risk of infestations and infections, leading to healthier crops and lower pest control costs.
6. Soil Structure Maintenance: Excessive water can degrade soil structure by compacting the soil and reducing pore space. Proper drainage maintains soil structure, ensuring it remains conducive to plant growth and resilient to mechanical stress from farm equipment.
7. Resource Efficiency: Efficient drainage can reduce the need for irrigation by preventing excessive water accumulation. This helps conserve water resources and reduces irrigation costs, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.
8. Economic Benefits: Investing in proper drainage can lead to long-term economic benefits by improving crop quality and yield, reducing input costs, and enhancing overall farm productivity. This results in better profitability and a higher return on investment.
9. Environmental Protection: Well-designed drainage systems help manage water flow, reducing the risk of flooding and protecting nearby water bodies from agricultural runoff. This supports environmental sustainability and compliance with regulatory requirements.

By implementing an effective farm drainage design, you can ensure optimal growing conditions, protect your soil and crops, and enhance the overall productivity and profitability of your farming operations.