What is the primary purpose of backflow prevention in turf irrigation systems?

• A. To increase water pressure
• B. To prevent contamination of potable water
• C. To filter soil salts
• D. To reduce evaporation

Answer: (B)

Backflow prevention is about keeping drinking water safe. Irrigation systems connect to the same supply that people use for drinking, and if pressure changes or a system fault allow water from the irrigation lines to flow backward, contaminants such as fertilizers, pesticides, soil, or microbes could be drawn into the potable water supply. A backflow preventer blocks that reverse flow, creating a barrier that protects the public water system from contamination. The other options aren’t the primary goal: increasing pressure, filtering soil salts, or reducing evaporation address different needs like flow characteristics, soil quality, or water-use efficiency, not safeguarding the drinking-water supply.