Soil Enhancement Measures - Tillage Practices and Soil Management, Crop Production | Crop Production Notes- Agricultural Engineering PDF Download

In addition to the inherent efficiencies of different irrigation methods, a number of additional soil enhancement approaches can be considered to improve the efficiency of irrigation practices. 

Proper field leveling, in order to allow the water to travel in an optimum speed, is an approach that assists uniform distribution of water and reduces runoff, particularly in surface and sprinkler irrigation. Furrow diking, which allows the capture of irrigation or precipitation water in small earthen dams within furrows, is another approach that can reduce runoff and increase the effectiveness of irrigation.

Further water savings can be achieved through residue management and conservation tillage, where the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and plant residue on the soil surface are managed. These practices improve the ability of the soil to hold moisture, reduces water run-off from the field, and reduces surface evaporation. Because conservation tillage can cause disturbances in furrow irrigation systems, they are better suited for fields using sprinkler or drip irrigation.

Further efficiency gains are possible through appropriate measures in water distribution systems. Where water is delivered to fields by canals, for example, lining of the canal surface – by compacted clay or concrete – can drastically reduce water seepage. Covering the canals or putting them underground can further decrease evaporation losses.