The Impact of Wastewater Irrigation on Soils and Crops

Wastewater used for agricultural irrigation covers wastewater of different qualities, ranging from raw and diluted, to those generated by various urban, industrial and agricultural activities. In general, wastewater use for irrigation is hardly depended on wastewater quality and soil conditions. Thus, the decision to practice wastewater irrigation should be based on pertinent soil and geologic properties as well as cropping intentions. This chapter aims to explore the impact of wastewater quality on soils and crops. The chapter also outlines the basic scientific requirements needed for successful use wastewater in this context.