Basic Knowledge in Agriculture #60

Irrigation is the application of water to soil in agriculture so that the water requirements of the crop are met. It commonly occurs when rainfall is inadequate or too erratic during the year. The goal of irrigation is to keep soil moisture at a desired level,M enhance crop productivity, and allow farming even in the dry season. Water for irrigation is typically taken from rivers, reservoirs, lakes, wells, or dams and conveyed by canals to rice paddies or fields.
Categories of Irrigation Systems

The most popular irrigation systems include：
Flood Irrigation
Water is applied to land directly over land surface through furrows or via basins or borders. This is commonly in rice growing areas and is like the flood system. It is convenient and economical, but it is for a relatively flat land.

Drip Irrigation System
Water is distributed like artificial rain with the utilization of sprinklers. This methodology is good for several kinds of crops and hilly terrain. It provides a more symmetrical water delivery system, but it costs more to install, and requires more energy.
Drip Irrigation

Water is delivered in small quantities to plant roots and its takes place through small tubes that have drip holes. It is very efficient, and suitable for horticultural and plantation crops. Still, it is relatively costly and needs periodic maintenance.

Subsurface Irrigation
Water is conveyed by pressurized flow in underground pipes, which are placed close to the root zone. This method is seldom employed due to its greater establishment expenses and more sophisticated technology requirements.

Benefits of Irrigation Methods
While meeting crop water requirements regularly, irrigation contributes to the production of higher yields and better quality of crops. Farmers can use irrigation to plant twice in a year and thus make twice as much money. In addition, irrigation preserves soil structure and prevents water stress-induced crop failure.

Effects of Irrigation Practices Irrigation has its side-effects but positive ones. Over-exploitation of water may also cause a depletion of water resources and lowering of water table. Mismanagement of irrigation water can induce salinization (salt accumulation) of the soil, which undermines soil fertility. In addition, the investment required for building and operating the system of irrigation can be very high, especially in areas where the terrain is rugged or where a modern system is required.

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