An irrigation system strategy is a cost effective strategy that achieves water efficiency and ensures that crops get sufficient water whilst minimizing negative effects of irrigation.
Alternatives:
- Crop rotation
- The growing of a different species of crop every planting season;
- No-till farming;
- The growing of crops without tilling the field;
- Mulching;
- Application of ground cover to minimize evaporation of soil moisture.
Savings of up to 60% in quantity of water used.
This strategy will be implemented by the people of Kingston town. Savings in water consumption and less prevalence of stagnant water related diseases.
Cost estimated at $20,000.
Implemented in China with remarkable success.
Potential Problems:
- Salinisation:
- This is the excessive accumulation of soluble mineral salts on the soil to the point that it affects fertility.
- Water logging:
- The clogging of air spaces in the soil by water. Inhibits aeration of soil.
- Leaching;
- A phenomena where soluble salts are washed into deeper layers of soil due to irrigation/excessive water.
Reference
Mason, J 2007, Sustainable Agriculture, Landlinks, Collingwood Australia.