APES Unit 5.5 - Irrigation Methods

70% of freshwater

Used for irrigation

Aquifer

Layer of permeable rock containing groundwater

can be depleted if over-used

Furrow

dig trenches between crop rows and fill with water

cheap

33% of water is lost

Flood

flood entire field

can lead to water logging

20% of water is lost

Spray

pump groundwater up to spray nozzles

more efficient but more expensive

around 25% of water is lost

Drip

hose drips water onto plants

most expensive and efficient

5% of water is lsot

Waterlogging

too much water sits in soil —> groundwater table rises and plants can’t get enough oxygen

Salinization

salts remain in soil after water evaporates —> soil becomes too salty (toxic) for plants

Leeve

An enlarged bank built up on each side of a river

Dike

A structure built to prevent ocean waters from flooding adjacent land

Dams

Built for the primary purpose of flood control. Also built for recreation or creating scenic lakes for housing developments

Acqueducts

Brings water from pristine areas to cities, ensures cleanliness

Construction is expensive and disturbs natural habitats