Microirrigation for Crop Production: Design, Operation, and Management

Microirrigation for Crop Production: Design, Operation, and Management, Second Edition is a comprehensive resource for understanding the basics of engineering and the science of microirrigation systems. It includes novel methods for measurement and estimation of evapotranspiration, resource-efficient design, advanced scheduling methods, automation, monitoring, and control, updates on crop salinity tolerance, leaching practices, variable rate irrigation, and the use of biological effluents and chemicals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 475 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

Microirrigation for Crop Production: Design, Operation, and Management, Second Edition is the most recent release in this essential foundational resource for the fundamentals of engineering and the science of designing and operating microirrigation systems. This new edition features innovative approaches for measuring and estimating evapotranspiration, resource-efficient microirrigation design and operation, advanced irrigation scheduling methods and tools, novel methods and technology of microirrigation automation, monitoring and control, updates in crop salinity tolerance and leaching practices, variable rate irrigation, updates on the use of biological effluents and chemicals and pesticides to include safety and regulatory concerns. The revised book will provide an understanding of the basic science necessary to comprehend systems design, operation, management, maintenance, monitoring, and performance evaluation.

Microirrigation is a water management technique that involves the precise application of water to crops through a network of pipes, hoses, and sprinklers. It is an efficient and sustainable method of irrigation that can help farmers reduce water consumption, improve crop yields, and reduce soil erosion.

The design of a microirrigation system involves several factors, including the crop type, soil type, climate, and water availability. The system must be designed to deliver the right amount of water to the right place at the right time, with minimal waste and loss.

Operation of a microirrigation system involves the control of water flow and pressure, as well as the timing and duration of irrigation. This is done through the use of controllers, valves, and sensors that monitor the moisture content of the soil and the weather conditions.

Management of a microirrigation system involves regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure that the system is operating efficiently and effectively. This includes checking for leaks, repairing or replacing damaged parts, and adjusting the system as needed to meet changing crop requirements.

Monitoring and control of a microirrigation system involves the use of sensors and data loggers to measure and record the performance of the system. This data can be used to optimize irrigation schedules, improve water efficiency, and identify areas where improvements can be made.

One of the key benefits of microirrigation is its ability to reduce water consumption. By delivering water directly to the roots of the crops, microirrigation can reduce water loss due to evaporation and runoff. This can help farmers save money on water bills and reduce their environmental impact.

Another benefit of microirrigation is its ability to improve crop yields. By delivering the right amount of water to the right place at the right time, microirrigation can help crops grow healthier and more efficiently. This can lead to higher crop yields and increased profitability for farmers.

Microirrigation can also help to reduce soil erosion. By delivering water directly to the roots of the crops, microirrigation can reduce the amount of water that is lost to runoff and evaporation. This can help to preserve soil fertility and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides.

In addition to its benefits, microirrigation also has some challenges. One of the challenges is the initial cost of installing and maintaining a microirrigation system. However, the long-term benefits of microirrigation can outweigh the initial costs, and the system can pay for itself over time through increased crop yields and reduced water consumption.

Another challenge is the need for skilled labor to operate and maintain a microirrigation system. However, as the technology of microirrigation continues to evolve, the need for skilled labor is reducing, and the system is becoming more accessible to farmers.

Overall, microirrigation is a valuable tool for farmers who want to improve their irrigation practices and reduce their environmental impact. It is an efficient and sustainable method of irrigation that can help farmers improve crop yields, reduce water consumption, and reduce soil erosion. With the continued development of microirrigation technology, it is likely to become an even more important tool for farmers in the future.

Dimension: 276 x 215 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323997195
Edition number: 2 ed