Technology in irrigation is now helping farmers achieve more in the area of water conservation.
Here are 3 savvy ways to conserve water with an agricultural irrigation system.
Use of Sensors
The use of soil moisture sensors and local weather monitoring stations allow farmers to obtain real time data on plant growing conditions. This information allows farmers to implement irrigation scheduling programs that allow them to apply precisely the right amount of water at the right time to provide ideal growing conditions for their crop. As a result, farmers have realized a reduction in the consumption of water and fertilizer through this concept.
Precision Irrigation
Precision irrigation involves placing the water closer to the plant’s root zone. Using methods such as low pressure drops on center pivots or drip/micro irrigation are examples of this technology. Precision irrigation improves system efficiency by reducing water losses from wind drift and evaporation. There are additional benefits with drip irrigation such as reduced disease problems.
Irrigation Scheduling
Irrigation scheduling is the process of determining the best time to run an irrigation system and the duration. Several factors need to be considered when determining the best irrigation schedule. Most notably is the weekly water requirement of the crop that you are growing. The water requirement can change as the crop maturity changes. Crops that are in the early developmental stage typically do not require as much water as crops that are in the fruit production stage. Another factor to consider when developing an irrigation schedule is the current weather conditions. Has it rained recently or has soil moisture been depleted by a long dry spell? Other factors such as soil type and slope should also be considered. An effective irrigation schedule will take into account all of these factors and allow the farmer to determine how much water to apply and when to make the application.
For additional information about agricultural irrigation contact the experts at W.P. Law today.
