Selection of Irrigation Methods for Agriculture - C.M. Burt, A.J. Clemmens, R. Bliesner, J.L. Merriam and L. Hardy
This report provides an overview of the various agricultural irrigation methods. The variations of each general method (surface irrigation, drip/micro irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and sub-irrigation) are described. These descriptions are useful to both the novice and experienced irrigation professionals. Most importantly, this report explains the capabilities, limitations, institutional considerations, and economic factors of the methods and their variations. These explanations will facilitate the proper selection of irrigation method for any particular circumstance. Readers will find that there is no universal "best" irrigation method, and that the proper method selection will depend upon the crop, climate, economics, water quality, support infrastructure, energy availability, and numerous other factors.
Prepared by the On-Farm Irrigation Committee of the Environmental and Water Resources Institute in 2000.
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