Elie Desrues passed away on Monday 21 October 2024.
Returning from his training in irrigation techniques in the USA in the 70s, Elie Desrues pioneered precision automatic watering systems, promoting the technique of built-in valve sprinklers and their individual control, combined with the first computerized control systems installed in France. He was also a pioneer in promoting electro-hydraulic control systems for golf pumping stations, followed by the energy-saving control obtained by generalizing speed variation to all electro-pumps.
Responsible for supervising Sadimato's integrated design office for several decades, he was involved in the design of watering systems for dozens of installations on golf courses, racecourses, parks and landscaped cemeteries.
Elie Desrues is an expert recognized by European authorities. Appointed by the CEN (European Committee for Standardization) as convenor of the Technical Committee CEN/TC334 “Irrigation Technics”, he co-authored the European standard NF EN 12484-1/5 “Installation with automatic watering of green spaces”. He also co-authored the professional rules of the SYNAA (Syndicat National de l'Arrosage Automatique), and the encyclopedia and technical notebooks of the SFG (Société Française des Gazons).
He was still active and had set up his own consulting company, IDBD, with numerous projects underway, including online training sessions for the EIA (European Irrigation Association).
Highly recognized in the profession, he embodied professionalism, respect and care.
His funeral will take place on Tuesday October 29 in Neauphle le Château’s church (78, France).
