Alternatives for Managing Shallow Ground Water in Arid Irrigated Areas

The combined operation of a drainage system for subirrigation and drainage is being considered for application in arid areas of the world. This is accomplished by modifying an irrigation schedule to induce crop water use from shallow ground water, by restricting flow from the drainage system, or by modifying the design and layout of the drainage system. Application of these techniques will reduce drainage flow, salt loading of surface water, and irrigation water requirements. Procedures to accomplish shallow ground water management are reviewed in this manuscript.