IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT

To guarantee reliable and economically viable crop yields, application of irrigation water to supplement natural rainfall is frequently needed. However, water is a costly input, often in short supply and not always of the desired quality. Hence, particularly with resource-poor small farmers, it is essential that sustainable and cost effective methods of applying and managing irrigation water are adopted, and that the quality of the water applied and its impact on soil and crop water balances is carefully monitored.

The key issues for consideration are:

• Water quantity:application of only the quantity actually required for optimal crop growth. Many irrigation systems apply more water than the plant or the soil can absorb, leading to waste of a scarce resource, drainage problems and unnecessary expense.
• Water quality: ensuring that the chemical content of the water applied does not lead to soil salinity or affect the quality of the irrigated crop.
• Application method: choice of a method of applying water to the crop which is low-cost and easily managed by small-scale growers.
• Drainage method: avoiding risks of water-logging and, wherever feasible, recycling the use of excess irrigation water.
• Water charges: establishing a method of charging water users, which is both equitable and provides farmers with an incentive to use water sparingly.
• Irrigation management: instituting a system of water and irrigation management which involves farmers and ensures efficient water use and irrigation system maintenance.

More information: Guide to websites on irrigation and irrigation management