Big Bend Community College will begin a training course for center pivot irrigation system technicians.

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MOSES LAKE — In response to the need across the Columbia Basin for center pivot irrigation system technicians, Big Bend Community College will begin a training course.

Skone Irrigation and Supply, and center pivot manufacturer Reinke, donated equipment and labor for a center pivot irrigation system to be built in a field in Moses Lake near state Route 17. Students taking the college course will be able to have hands-on training.

The program begins in the fall, said Big Bend Community College President Bill Bonaudi. Students will learn about installing, building and repairing the equipment.

He explained he hopes other manufacturers will join the effort after viewing the central training facility.

“It really can work as a good training basis,” Bonaudi said.

Skone President Eric Skone said the water and power are centralized on-site in a building.

During the installation of the irrigation system, a trench was dug with piping installed to get the water to the pivot system, he said. The water travels through a filter and reaches the pivot points and each tower.

The latest technology will be available to students, Skone added. The power box features a touch screen and is capable of being programed from any location through a computer.

The computer directs the tower at the furthest end to move, causing the rest of the towers to follow.

The computer allows students to understand malfunctions, pumping information and pressure readings.

Skone said there is a shortage of center pivot mechanics.

“There is a shortage throughout the United States,” he said. “Big Bend is filling this need.”

During a luncheon in the irrigation field, Bonaudi told a small crowd he was thankful for the donated equipment and in return, the businesses will have qualified people to work on the center pivots.

“It serves a need in irrigation,” Skone said.

The college will offer $16,000 in scholarship money for some students enrolled in the program.

For more information, call Skone Irrigation and Supply at 509-349-7364.