Location: Water Management and Conservation Research
Project Number: 2020-13660-009-014-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Jun 15, 2025
End Date: Jun 14, 2026
Objective:
This experiment aims to evaluate the impact of pressurized drip irrigation versus flood irrigation on soil salinity dynamics. Initial soil salinity levels will be assessed, and pressurized drip and flood irrigation systems will be implemented in designated plots with careful consideration of water application uniformity. Soil salinity changes will be monitored over time through regular sampling and analysis and soil sensors, accompanied by an evaluation of crop growth, yield, and water productivity. The experiment aims to draw conclusive insights into the effectiveness of pressurized drip and flood irrigation in managing soil salinity, providing valuable recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices.
Approach:
The study will be conducted in a 4-acre field, divided into three sections, each with 4 six 6-bed plots measuring 6.1 meters in width and 190 meters in length. The experiment will compare pressurized drip and flood irrigation, with irrigation rates set at 100% and 75% ETc. This design, replicated three times, will allow for strong statistical analysis. To evaluate soil salinity, sodicity, and structural changes, comprehensive soil analyses will be performed both before and after the experiment. Soil samples will be taken at various depths to provide a good view of the soil profile. Neutron moisture meters and other soil moisture sensors will be utilized for real-time monitoring, capturing the continuous dynamics of water content and salinity levels throughout the cotton crop's growth cycle. Neutron moisture meter data will be collected weekly and integrated with a soil water balance model for irrigation scheduling. Plant height, canopy cover, and other growth parameters will be monitored throughout the season. Cotton lint will be manually collected from three locations within each plot for an initial yield estimate, followed by mechanical harvesting of the middle four rows of each plot to determine final yield in pounds per acre.