Shallow Groundwater Reuse in Alfalfa Irrigation

by M. J. Chiodi, Univ of Nevado Reno, Reno, NV, USA,
J. C. Guitjens, Univ of Nevado Reno, Reno, NV, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Steel Structures

Abstract:

Two shallow groundwater reuse options in alfalfa irrigation are examined. Alfalfa water use from the water table is investigated using a drainage component model. It is shown that alfalfa water use from the water table may occur during periods of deficit irrigation and when irrigation is cut off for harvest. However, it is not conclusive that inducing alfalfa water use from the water table is a worthwhile management option. An equilibrium mass balance model is used to determine the shallow groundwater's potential as irrigation water. With an average drainage water electrical conductivity (EC//d) of 1. 40 dS/m, an 84% fraction of the drainage water, if used for irrigation, could contribute to alfalfa consumptive use without yield reduction. This latter management alternative shows potential for efficient water use.

Subject Headings: Irrigation | Vegetation | Water use | Water table | Water reclamation | Water management | Groundwater management

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