The article says that " Growers typically use seepage irrigation", and "seepage uses too much water". To me, this sounds like an effective way of replenishing the aquifer. In that sense, the new irrigation method does not "save" water, but can even result in a decline of the groundwater table. What are your thoughts on this?
Published by Berend van der Zwaan, Hydrologist at Eelerwoude
The article says that " Growers typically use seepage irrigation", and "seepage uses too much water". To me, this sounds like an effective way of replenishing the aquifer. In that sense, the new irrigation method does not "save" water, but can even result in a decline of the groundwater table. What are your thoughts on this?
1 Comment
I guess it would depend on what happens to the "too much water", which may vary by location. Also it would depend on where the water - seepage or centre pivot - came from in the first place. If it's still groundwater, then withdrawing less to begin with probably has a better outcome for aquifer longevity than withdrawing more and allowing some to eventually seep back to the (shallow) aquifer.
Published by Nuraini Mohamed Arsad, Scientist - Soil & Groundwater at Shell Global Solutions