Irrigation Effects in Oklahoma and Texas
Publication: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 113, Issue 1
Abstract
Groundwater contamination is a serious water quality problem since 50% of the population derives drinking water from groundwater sources. Severe water quality problems have resulted from deep percolation under irrigated areas, carrying high salt loads and increased nitrate concentrations to groundwater aquifers. This review looks at studies that have dealt with the effect of deep percolation from irrigation on groundwater quality. Recommendations are developed to minimize the undesirable effects of groundwater contamination by irrigated agriculture. Major among the conclusions is that improved and/or more efficient irrigation and fertilizer management practices are required to minimize the adverse impact of irrigated agriculture on the quality of underlying groundwater. When water and nutrient application and use efficiencies are improved, deep percolation is decreased and less downward movement of pollutants occurs. Structural improvements in irrigation systems are a necessary aid to achieving the desired level of management.
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References
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Bailey, O. F., and Graft, R. D., Soil Survey of Jackson County, Oklahoma, USDA, Soil Conservation Service and Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, Stillwater, Okla., 1961.
2.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 113 • Issue 1 • February 1987
Pages: 49 - 56
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 ASCE.
History
Published online: Feb 1, 1987
Published in print: Feb 1987
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