Surface Irrigation
is arguably the least complex form of irrigation. At its simpl est, no attempt is made to stop fields from naturally flooding. In general, this is only suitable in situations where the crop is of little value, or where the field will be used only for grazing or even recreation. Of course, while this method is simple and easy, it is totally dependent upon a suitable water source.
is arguably the least complex form of irrigation. At its simpl est, no attempt is made to stop fields from naturally flooding. In general, this is only suitable in situations where the crop is of little value, or where the field will be used only for grazing or even recreation. Of course, while this method is simple and easy, it is totally dependent upon a suitable water source. Photo courtesy USDA ARS Flood-tolerant soybeans from southeastern China |
A more refined variation, though still reliant on a plentiful supply of water, is basin irrigation. Closely-spaced crops with deep roots are particularly suited to this method, and the growing of rice in paddy fields is an example familiar to most of us. The basin referred to is simply a field, enclosed with a raised bank, or dike, to contain the water. The water is directed into the field by various channels and pipelines, or may even be brought in manually. Two extremely old methods use these devices:
- A shaduf is an uncomplicated apparatus consisting of a bucket, raised and lowered by a simple lever.
- A sakia consists of a geared wheel of a circular chain of buckets turned by an animal, such as a horse or mule.
By whatever method, the water is transported to the channels where it floods the field, causing a deep layer of mud to form in the bottom of the basin. In the case of rice, fresh seedlings are planted in this rich and fertile mud, and in September or October the mature rice is harvested, dried and stored.
 Photo courtesy USDA ERS Furrow irrigation |
Border irrigation is similar, but in this case the field is not entirely enclosed by a dike. Instead, it is watered from one end and allowed to drain from the other. Border irrigation works well with sloping land, as does furrow irrigation, in which the water is further controlled by the use of channels within the field itself. Water is directed along these channels, and by controlling the flow of water into each channel, the farmer can control the amount of water in different portions of the field surface.
 Photo courtesy USDA ERS Special furrow systems like these enhance water management. Wide-spaced furrows work like alternative-row irrigation, except that every row is irrigated and the rows are further apart. |
Economics of Land Development in Canal Commands: A Study of Surface Irrigation Systems in Kerala, India
The surface irrigation manual: A comprehensive guide to design and operation of surface irrigation systems
Guidelines for Designing and Evaluating Surface Irrigation Systems (Fao Fisheries Technical Paper)
Automated Farm Surface Irrigation Systems Worldwide
SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE DRIP IRRIGATION: Impacts on Soil Moisture and its Distribution in Irrigated Environment
