Irrigation

Definition of Irrigation

Irrigation is the art and science of supplying water to crops, landscapes, or pasturelands to support growth, maintain soil health, and maximise agricultural productivity. It involves managing water distribution through various systems and techniques to ensure plants receive the right amount of water at the right time.

Irrigation goes beyond simply adding water; it includes designing efficient delivery systems, monitoring soil moisture, scheduling applications, and conserving water resources. Proper irrigation is crucial for maintaining crop yields, especially in regions with irregular rainfall or drought-prone areas.

Why Irrigation Matters

Irrigation is vital because water is a key determinant of agricultural productivity and food security. Effective irrigation helps:

Increase crop yields – Ensuring consistent water supply for optimal growth
Support drought resilience – Reducing dependence on rainfall and protecting crops in dry periods
Conserve water resources – Using modern techniques to reduce waste and improve efficiency
Improve soil and plant health – Preventing overwatering, erosion, and nutrient loss
Enable year-round production – Supporting multiple growing seasons and diverse crops

Without proper irrigation, crops may fail, soil quality may degrade, and farmers’ incomes can be at risk.

Key Principles of Irrigation

Efficient Water Management – Applying the right amount of water at the right time
Irrigation System Design – Selecting and maintaining appropriate systems such as drip, sprinkler, or surface irrigation
Soil Moisture Monitoring – Using sensors and field measurements to guide irrigation decisions
Sustainability Practices – Minimising water waste and protecting natural water sources
Integration with Crop Management – Coordinating irrigation with fertilisation, planting schedules, and climate conditions
Maintenance and Risk Management – Ensuring systems are functional and reducing disease or pest risks related to water management

Related Terms

Drip Irrigation
Sprinkler Irrigation
Surface Irrigation
Precision Irrigation
Water Conservation in Agriculture
Climate-Smart Agriculture

Useful Resources on Irrigation

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about irrigation techniques, water management, and sustainable farming practices:

FAO – Irrigation and Water Management – Global guidance on irrigation systems, water efficiency, and sustainable practices.
FAOSTAT – Agricultural Water Use Data – Comprehensive datasets on crop water use, irrigation coverage, and efficiency statistics.
USDA – Irrigation and Water Resources – Resources and research on irrigation methods, soil moisture management, and water conservation.
Irrigation Association – Industry-leading guidance on modern irrigation systems, technology, and standards.
International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) – Research and best practices for efficient and sustainable irrigation worldwide.
Our World in Data – Agriculture and Water – Analysis and visualisation of global irrigation trends and water efficiency.
UK Environment Agency – Water for Agriculture – Guidance on irrigation water rights, usage, and sustainability in the UK.
AGRIS – Irrigation Research Database – Global scientific articles, technical reports, and studies on irrigation systems and water management.
Climate-Smart Agriculture – Irrigation Strategies – Guidance on integrating irrigation into climate-resilient farming systems.
UK Irrigation Association - practical information on irrigation, water, drought, and climate change based on evidence from sound research.
European Irrigation Association (EIA) - who promote the continued development of products, practices and services in irrigation, and to advocate for sustainable industry standards.