Farmers get more out of drip irrigation with new guidelines

Abstract

Irrigation The application of drip irrigation (the frequent application of small amounts of water as directly as possible to the roots of crops), might be as old as irrigation itself. However, while plastic pipes and nozzles have long since replaced ancient clay containers, drip irrigation is still considered the most efficient form of irrigation. This makes it particularly applicable to South Africa with its semi-arid climate and amid increasing competition for water from various users. South African irrigators especially, are under increased pressure to use the available water resources more effectively, while increasing productivity amid rising input costs. Recent figures (2007) indicate that around 22% of land under irrigation in South Africa is already making use of drip irrigation. The technical development of irrigation equipment over the last couple of years has been immense. Like any irrigation technology, drip irrigation is only efficient when it is correctly selected, planned, designed, managed and properly maintained.

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