EMS-agriculture and the environment, page no 78

What is irrigation:

Irrigation is the process of applying water to the crops artificially to fulfil their water requirements. Nutrients may also be provided to the crops through irrigation. The various sources of water for irrigation are wells, ponds, lakes, canals, tube-wells and even dams.

Misuse of irrigation:

Misuse of irrigation refers to the inappropriate or inefficient use of water for agricultural purposes, which can lead to a variety of negative consequences for the environment, crop yields, and water resources Here are some common forms of irrigation misuse:

1. Over-irrigation:

• Definition: Applying more water than the soil or plants can absorb.

  
  

• Consequences: Leads to waterlogging, which can suffocate plant roots, reduce oxygen availability, and encourage the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria. It also wastes water and energy and can cause nutrient leaching.

2. Under-irrigation:

• Definition: Providing insufficient water to crops.

• Consequences: Results in drought stress, reduced plant growth, and lower yields. Prolonged under-irrigation can lead to permanent damage to crops.

3. Poor irrigation timing:

• Definition: Irrigating at inappropriate times of the day or season.

• Consequences: Irrigating during the hottest part of the day increases evaporation loss, leading to inefficiency. Incorrect seasonal timing can also result in poor crop development or waste of water resources.

4. Salinization:

• Definition: Excessive irrigation in areas with poor drainage can cause salt build up in the soil.

• Consequences: High soil salinity can inhibit plant growth, reduce crop yields, and eventually render the soil infertile.

  
  

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