Pivots are one of the most efficient means of irrigation, requiring less labor and lower cost per acre than any pressurized irrigation system. Pivots are excellent means for forage crops including corn, turf grass, and wastewater systems. Pivots are very efficient and effective on rolling terrain, managing grades of 15%.

Linears were developed in the late 70's as an off shoot of the pivot. Linears are designed for rectangular fields and irrigation from a central ditch, side ditch or hose pull. They are an expensive, maintenance intensive, yet extremely efficient method of irrigation.