Irrigation Practices
Large amounts of water are used in many irrigation systems, and thus these systems provide substantial potential for subsequent transport of contaminants to receiving waters. Irrigation water should be managed and used to optimize the amount of water applied and maximize the efficiency of where and when it is applied in relation to crop needs (and thus saving costs on water). This will help to minimize runoff and reduce the amount of excess water leaching contaminants into the soil. Watering systems such as sprinklers, low-energy precision applications, surges, and drips help deliver water uniformly and efficiently. Instead of natural earthen water transmission systems, efficiency can be improved by using lined ditches and gated pipe. In some circumstances, field drainage recovery ponds can be used to capture irrigation water for reuse as well as capturing sediments and nutrients (USEPA, 2001b).
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