One huge change that came with the new Minnesota State Plumbing Code that went into effect on January 23rd of this year was the requirement for annual backflow preventer testing. Here's the exact code ...
The Family Handyman on MSN

How To Winterize Your Sprinkler System

Close any open drain valves or test cocks. Open the sprinkler water supply valve. Do this slowly to avoid pressure spikes. Turn the controller back on and run each zone manually to check for leaks, ...