Exmark donates sprinkler system

The Gage County Historical Society will continue to keep its lawn healthy and vibrant, thanks to a donation from Exmark Manufacturing in Beatrice, a division of The Toro Company.

Exmark donated the parts and installation of a new sprinkler system for the museum lawn. The project, valued at around $3,000, will be completed this week by Underground Specialties of Beatrice.

Duane Craig of Underground Specialties said the old system, installed in 1976, was made up of an assortment of 30 mismatched sprinkler heads that did not provide adequate coverage of the entire lawn.

Craig said the new system includes the installation of 36 sprinkler heads, underground piping and electronic controls. The system also utilizes rain sensor technology that prevents the sprinklers from turning on while its raining.

The conservation of water is of utmost importance to the society, who will make every effort to be as environmentally friendly as possible, said Lesa Arterburn, Gage County Historical Society director.

Arterburn said the society applied for a grant through Toro but did not receive it initially.

Exmark decided we needed to have it done, she said. Where the wires come into the building to run the sprinklers, we started with five and we were down to three, so if one of those broke, we wouldnt have a sprinkler system.

The old sprinkler heads were too high above the ground and occasionally were caught by lawn mowers.

Garry Busboom and his family have been maintaining the lawn for more than two decades, mowing and trimming it.

They just came one day and said Well mow the lawn, Arterburn said. Garry and his familys dedication to the museum match the dedication that Exmark and Toro have to their customers and the Gage County community.

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Exmark donates sprinkler system