Evaluating Regional Solutions to Salinization and Waterlogging in an Irrigated River Valley
Publication: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 132, Issue 1
Abstract
Potential solutions to high soil salinity levels and waterlogging problems are investigated on a regional scale using calibrated finite-difference flow and mass transport modeling for a portion of the Lower Arkansas River Valley in Colorado. A total of 38 alternatives incorporating varying degrees of recharge reduction, canal seepage reduction, subsurface drainage installation, and pumping volume increases are modeled over three irrigation seasons (1999–2001). Six performance indicators are used to evaluate the effectiveness of these alternatives in improving agroecological conditions, compared to existing conditions. Predicted average regional decrease in water table elevation (as great as 1.93 m over the irrigation season) is presented for selected alternatives, as well as the spatial mapping of results. Decrease in soil salinity concentration (with regional and seasonal average reduction as high as 950 mg/L) is also predicted and mapped. Estimated groundwater salinity changes, reduction in total salt loading to the river, increase in average regional crop yield, and changes in net water consumption indicate the potential for marked regional-scale enhancements to the irrigation-stream-aquifer system.
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Acknowledgments
This research was made possible by the cooperation of more than 80 Arkansas Valley farmers. It was funded by grants from the Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Colorado Water Resources Research Institute, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the Bent County Soil Conservation District, the Fort Lyon Canal Company, and the Catlin Canal Company. Numerous agencies have provided valuable cooperative assistance including the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District, the Lower Arkansas Valley Water Conservancy District, the Pueblo Subdistrict Office of the USGS, the District 2 Office of the Colorado Division of Water Resources, and the USDA Farm Services Agency. The contribution of Mr. Eric Morway in developing and incorporating the modified drainage package in the MODFLOW model is acknowledged and appreciated.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 132 • Issue 1 • February 2006
Pages: 21 - 30
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: Aug 5, 2004
Accepted: Nov 23, 2004
Published online: Feb 1, 2006
Published in print: Feb 2006
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