Resource Conservation: Farming Practices To Save Water

Agricultural production is the largest consumer of water and is highly dependent on this resource. This industry is most exposed to the risks associated with water and, at the same time, its primary pollutant. Improved agricultural management practices, including irrigation systems, should be applied to enhance the sectors’ sustainability, productivity of fields and ensure food security. 

Irrigated agriculture is more productive than rainfed agriculture and provides 40% of the global food supply. However, agricultural regions worldwide face water shortages due to severe droughts. Groundwater and surface water supplies are shrinking, and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. Climate change is driving changes in precipitation fluctuations and shrinking snow cover and glaciers on the planet. Competition between farmers and non-agricultural users, including the energy and industrial sectors, is also growing.

Farming Practices for Effective Water Conservation 

Growing more water-efficient crops according to regional climate

The choice of  types of crops to grow is highly dependent on how much water they consume. Legumes do not need much water. Also, cultivating perennial crops contributes to reducing water consumption in agriculture.

It is also important to consider climatic conditions when choosing crop types and pay attention to the most suitable for local conditions. Tricky crops in a dry region will not produce enough crops, so farmers should select naturally drought-tolerant plants. For example, fig trees tolerate high temperatures well and can be grown in desert climates. Drought-tolerant crops also include sorghum, olives, quinoa, and Armenian cucumbers.

Precision Irrigation Methods

Irrigation is a method of supplying water to plants. Although the goal of irrigation system design is to increase crop yields, many of them still need to distribute water efficiently. For example, an irrigation method such as soaking the soil around the fork with water causes waste as the plants draw water through their root system from a certain depth. 

Precision irrigation systems deliver the right amount of water directly to the roots of agriculture crops. Thus, water is well-spent, and the plants receive the moisture they need without the threat of decay and other consequences that waterlogging can lead to.

Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation involves maintaining the humidity at an optimal level. This irrigation system’s design includes placing several drip lines passing through the field and maintaining emitters on the ground alongside the plants. It is the best water conservation method available and supports adding fertilizers. This irrigation method has many advantages, including minimal water contact with fruits, leaves, and tree stems and reduced weed growth.

Subsurface Drip Irrigation

Subsurface drip irrigation works the same way as drip irrigation, but the system’s main components are placed underground. It also saves water significantly and improves yields. Water also seeps into the roots of farming crops rather than remaining on the soil surface. Also, subsoil drip irrigation eliminates the evaporation of surface water, preventing the appearance of many weeds and diseases. 

Micro-Sprinklers

Micro sprinklers are similar to drip irrigation. However, this method is intended for small areas. At the same time, the system sprays water in a circle and can be used in gardens or row crops.

Using Cover Crops

Growing cover crops promotes soil health and moisture retention by reducing transpiration. This practice ensures soil coverage and surface cooling until the following cash crop planting. 

In any tillage system, the added carbon and root canals and the increase in soil pore space contribute to improved soil water holding capacity. With no-till technology, cover crop mulch increases water infiltration and retains moisture in the summer.

Different cover crop types also help increase organic matter and improve soil structure. It is crucial for erosion prevention. Nutrients are stored in the soil and maintain its fertility. Cover plant roots also can unlock some nutrients by converting them into a more accessible form. 

The impact of cover crops on agricultural pests is multifaceted. Farmers can reduce the threat to future crops from pests and diseases by carefully selecting cover crop varieties and planting dates.

There are many ways to conserve water on agricultural land. Mulching helps reduce water evaporation, and no-till provides improved water infiltration into the soil. Adjusting planting dates helps to match crop growth with changing rainfall patterns. 

There is also contour farming, which is the cultivation of crops on slopes in rows with the same height. This method helps prevent water runoff and soil erosion later.

Conclusions

By 2050, the world’s population is projected to exceed 9 billion. It will double the demand for food and other agricultural products. At the same time, climate change and resource scarcity indicate that the industry needs to effectively apply water, fertilizers, and soil to increase productivity without forgetting about sustainability. Applying sustainable agricultural practices is essential to reduce negative impacts on the environment and biodiversity. They help humanity to save life on this planet as we know it. 

It is also important to note the new environmental policies, including the Green Deal, which insists on resource efficiency and healthier produce. Precision irrigation and fertigation can significantly contribute to increasing the industry’s sustainability and productivity. In addition, farmers will be able to increase their competitiveness in the market by following the requirements of the new agricultural policy in world markets.