All Flashcards
Cause: Water evaporates after irrigation. Effect?
Salt accumulates in the soil (salinization).
Cause: Overuse of aquifers. Effect?
Aquifer depletion and potential water scarcity.
Cause: Flood irrigation. Effect?
Water waste, soil erosion, and nutrient runoff.
Cause: Drip irrigation. Effect?
Reduced water waste and decreased risk of salinization.
Cause: Increased soil salinity. Effect?
Inhibited plant growth and reduced crop yields.
Cause: Depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer. Effect?
Water scarcity for agriculture in the Great Plains.
Cause: Excessive groundwater pumping. Effect?
Land subsidence and saltwater intrusion in coastal areas.
Cause: Deforestation in watershed areas. Effect?
Increased runoff and decreased groundwater recharge.
Cause: Climate change leading to prolonged droughts. Effect?
Increased demand for irrigation and accelerated aquifer depletion.
Cause: Implementation of water-efficient irrigation technologies. Effect?
Reduced water consumption and improved crop yields.
How does drip irrigation promote sustainability?
It reduces water waste and minimizes salinization, conserving water resources.
How can proper soil management prevent salinization?
By improving drainage and reducing waterlogging, preventing salt accumulation.
How can water conservation practices promote sustainability?
Reduce water demand, ensuring long-term availability for agriculture and other uses.
How can rainwater harvesting promote sustainability in irrigation?
Provides a supplementary water source, reducing reliance on groundwater and surface water.
How can crop rotation promote sustainability in irrigation?
Improves soil health, reduces the need for irrigation, and enhances water infiltration.
How can using drought-resistant crops promote sustainability in irrigation?
Reduces the demand for irrigation, conserving water resources in arid and semi-arid regions.
How can improving irrigation scheduling promote sustainability?
Ensures that crops receive the right amount of water at the right time, reducing water waste.
How can using precision agriculture techniques promote sustainability in irrigation?
Optimizes water use by monitoring soil moisture and plant needs, reducing water waste and improving crop yields.
How can implementing water pricing policies promote sustainability in irrigation?
Encourages farmers to use water more efficiently, reducing water waste and promoting conservation.
How can promoting public awareness about water conservation promote sustainability in irrigation?
Encourages responsible water use and supports policies that promote sustainable irrigation practices.
Why is irrigation important?
It enables crop production in areas with insufficient rainfall, but it's the largest consumer of freshwater globally.
Why is salinization a problem?
High salt concentrations inhibit plant growth and reduce crop yields.
What is the significance of the Ogallala Aquifer?
It's a major source of water for agriculture in the Great Plains of the USA.
Why is aquifer replenishment important?
Replenishment is crucial to prevent depletion and ensure a sustainable water supply.
Why is water conservation important in irrigation?
Because irrigation is the largest consumer of freshwater globally.
What is the relationship between irrigation and soil health?
Improper irrigation techniques can lead to soil degradation, such as salinization.
What is the role of aquifers in the water cycle?
Aquifers store groundwater, which is a vital part of the water cycle and a source of freshwater.
What are the environmental impacts of over-pumping aquifers?
Can lead to depletion, land subsidence, and saltwater intrusion in coastal areas.
What are the economic considerations of different irrigation methods?
More efficient methods often have higher initial costs but can lead to long-term savings.
What is the impact of irrigation on water quality?
Runoff from irrigated fields can carry fertilizers and pesticides, polluting water sources.