Plant Science and Agriculture Research

Irrigation and Water Management

Agricultural irrigation water management is the activity of monitoring and controlling the quantity, volume, and control of water delivery based on seasonal crop needs while taking into account soil input and water holding capacity.  To achieve optimal yields, soil moisture should be controlled to avoid extensive percolation (soil physics) losses or runoff. A key factor in the effectiveness of an irrigation system is management. Irrigation necessitates vast amounts of water and in many cases substantial labour inputs. Only if water is used efficiently will the irrigator see a return on his or her irrigation instrument investments.