Subsurface drip produced highest net return in Westlands area study

Abstract

Cotton was produced using subsurface drip, low-energy precision application (LEPA), scheduled furrow, and conventional furrow irrigation systems in California in 1988. Subsurface drip irrigation produced the highest net return to the grower through increased cotton yields. Significant water conservation was achieved with both pressurized irrigation systems (subsurface drip and LEPA). However, computer-aided scheduling of furrow irrigation did not result in significant water savings. Pressurized irrigation systems may offer the flexibility and control to limit unnecessary water additions to the shallow groundwater table.