A system and method for providing drive shaft braking for an irrigation machine includes a system for providing drive shaft braking during the operation of an irrigation machine where the irrigation machine includes a drive system having a drive motor and a drive shaft. The system preferably includes a cam attached to the drive shaft, an extension arm having a first securing point, a securing arm having a second securing point and a spring attached between the first securing point and the second securing point. The system preferably further includes a follower mechanism secured to the extension arm, which applies continual frictional pressure to the drive shaft in response to the force applied by the spring to the follower through the extension arm. According to a further preferred embodiment, the present invention functions to hold the drive shaft in place when rotational force is not actively applied to the drive shaft by the drive motor.
