What role does agriculture play in water conservation?

Agriculture is the largest user of freshwater globally, accounting for approximately 70% of the total. Thus, it is the most important sector in which to conserve water resources, which are being depleted by massive withdrawals made for irrigation purposes. Farmers are under increasing pressure to use efficient irrigation methods and maintain high harvests. Good water management guarantees food production and security without depleting rivers and aquifers. Conservation practices foster both productivity and sustainability.

Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly and accurately to the root zone of plants, which minimizes wastage of water. Various plants, including vegetables and orchards, are well served by these systems. Farmers report increased yields with reduced water usage. Initial investments pay back in seasons through savings in both water usage and energy costs. Government subsidies usually accompany installation costs.

Opting for drought-tolerant crops, e.g., millet, cuts irrigation needs drastically. Such plants possess deep root systems that tap water from lower layers of soil. Therefore, farmers who live in dry regions depend on such plants for growth during dry periods. In addition, legumes planted in rotation improve soil structure and can hold naturally greater quantities of moisture.

By combining these methods, the cumulative water savings achieved exceed 50%. Soil moisture monitoring, followed by the application of drip irrigation, is the first step. Cover crops should be planted during the off-season. With this integrated approach to water savings, we will make water available for farming in the future while also feeding the growing population in a sustainable manner.

Read the full article: 10 Practical Water Conservation Methods