Use Of Shade Nets And Dam Liners in Water Conservation

In hot and arid areas like Turkana and Garissa, evaporation can drain nearly 50% of stored water—despite having dam liners to prevent seepage. That’s why Irri-Hub recommends using UV-treated shade nets to cover your dam or pond. This simple upgrade can dramatically reduce water loss, protect your liner, and improve the efficiency of your water system.

Why Use Shade Nets Over Dam Liners?

  1. Minimize Evaporation
    Our shade nets block 30–90% of sunlight, reducing water surface temperatures and slowing evaporation. Farmers have reported up to 30% less water loss—meaning more water for irrigation during dry spells.
  2. Protect Liners from UV Damage
    Constant exposure to harsh sunlight can degrade PVC liners and shorten their lifespan. Shade nets act as a sunscreen, extending the durability of both PVC and HDPE liners.
  3. Prevent Algae Growth
    Limiting sunlight curbs algae, keeping your water cleaner and preventing clogged pipes and filters.
  4. Keep Out Debris & Pests
    Shade nets shield your dam from leaves, dust, birds, and insects—reducing maintenance and contamination risks.
  5. Improve Water Quality
    Stabilized water temperatures and less organic debris mean better quality water, ideal for both irrigation and aquaculture.

Irri-Hub’s Tip:

  • Choose PVC for short-term or small-scale use.
  • Choose HDPE for larger farms or long-term investments.
  • In both cases, pair with a shade net to maximize effectiveness.

Real Impact: A farmer in Kitui used a 0.5mm HDPE liner and 50% shade net, reducing evaporation by 30%—and extending irrigation through dry seasons.

How to get started 

  • Schedule a site visit 
  • Choose 0.5mm liners for ponds; 1mm+ for rocky/dam terrain
  • Pick shade nets based on climate: 30–50% for mild, 70–90% for hot zones
  • Install securely with weather-resistant ties
  • Regularly clean and inspect your setup

Combining Irri-Hub dam liners with our UV-resistant shade nets gives you a water-smart solution that saves money, conserves resources, and boosts your farm’s resilience. Whether you’re a small-scale farmer or managing a large agribusiness, we’ve got the tools to help you thrive—even in dry seasons.

Get in Touch:
Email: sales@irri-hub.com
Website: www.irri-hub.com

Let’s give life to your soil—while conserving every precious drop!

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