Irrigation Efficiency: more food with less water from edX

How can we meet the demands of our ever hungrier and thirstier world? Irrigation water uses 70% of the fresh water extraction worldwide to produce 40% of the food.

Arid countries are dependent on these cropproduction systems but irrigation is usually operated at low efficiency. There is great potential to increase food output per drop of water from field through farm up to catchment level.

In this intermediate course you will learn about the irrigation supply chain, from water sources to root zone. First, you’ll learn to calculate the amount of water plants need to produce a healthy and plentiful crop. You will then see how this water is supplied to the roots and how it getsto the field from the source.

We’ll see how efficiency influences the design and operation of both the water application and conveyance components of irrigation systems. Towards the end we will explore a number of real-world systems including drip irrigation and surface irrigation. Together with experts in irrigation we will see different perspectives on efficiency.

As you progress through the course, you will understand the drivers of irrigation efficiency for irrigators, water users and communities. This will allow you to see efficiency at the scale of the entire water resource, taking a more holistic view of water flows, water losses and possible water savings. At this stage in the course we’ll invite you to talk about a system in your country and apply this holistic water resource view.

Equipped with this knowledge you will be prepared to start producing more food with less water.

The course is run by KU Leuven in Belgium which has a long-standing tradition of teaching water resources subjects. Together the instructors have several decades of teaching experience in irrigation and water resources. The course is accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds, as long as they have the prerequisite knowledge. It will be especially beneficial to individuals involved in irrigation projects who can put the techniques and ideas discussed into practice.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the different interpretations of irrigation efficiency and the application of productivity terms e.g. water use efficiency, crop water productivity, net efficiency etc.
Calculate optimal water requirements for optimal crop yields.
Define the controlling factors in maintaining water application efficiency and the impacts of different techniques and technology.

Understand the design constraints of conveyance and distribution systems and the principal effects on conveyance efficiency.
Apply a holistic water resource assessment method to analyse the efficiency of an irrigation system.

Understand the different interpretations of irrigation efficiency and the application of productivity terms e.g. water use efficiency, crop water productivity, net efficiency etc.
Calculate optimal water requirements for optimal crop yields.
Define the controlling factors in maintaining water application efficiency and the impacts of different techniques and technology.
Understand the design constraints of conveyance and distribution systems and the principal effects on conveyance efficiency.
Apply a holistic water resource assessment method to analyse the efficiency of an irrigation system.

Syllabus

Module 1: What is ‘irrigation efficiency’?Review of what makes up an irrigation system and introduction to the concepts of irrigation efficiency such as classical and net efficiency and how they differ from productivity indicators.

Module 2: How much water do we need?Review of the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum. Explanation of the process to calculate the water needed for irrigation at field level. Calculation of the soil water content. Creation of irrigation schedules by combining the irrigation requirement and the soil water storage.

Module 3: Field application efficiencyIntroduction to uniformity, adequacy and their impact on efficiency. In-depth look at surface, sprinkler and drip irrigation systems and the factors influencing application efficiency with these methods.

Module 4: Water conveyance and distribution efficiencyIntroduction to conveyance systems by looking at different real-life cases involving canals. Concepts involved in canal operation and flow monitoring along with the different types of distribution by canal. Pressurised flow in piped systems and the principal differences with a canal system.

Module 5: Integrated view and case studiesIntroduction to four different irrigation case studies from South America and Europe; Equity in a large Peruvian system, Vegetable growing in Andalusia, Belgian advisory service and Ecuadorian proportional division system. Introduction to the fractions method and application to a system from the case studies.

Module 6: Closing and goodbyeFinishing and closing remarks, good bye message and exit survey.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers the irrigation supply chain from water sources to the plant root zone

Learn to calculate necessary water requirements to cultivate healthy crops

Determine how water is supplied to the roots and how it gets to the field from the source

Analyze design and operation impacts on efficiency of water application and conveyance components of irrigation

Examine different irrigation systems from drip to surface

Explore efficiency perspectives from various experts in the irrigation field

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Irrigation Efficiency: more food with less water with these activities:

Review soil science

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Review the basic principles of soil science, including soil formation, composition, and properties, to provide a strong foundation for understanding irrigation efficiency.

Browse courses on Soil Science

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Read a textbook or online resource on soil science
Review lecture notes or videos on soil science
Attend a workshop or seminar on soil science

Read 'Principles of Irrigation and Drainage' by Michael A. Burt

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Enhance your understanding of the fundamental principles of irrigation and drainage by exploring this comprehensive textbook.

View Irrigation Theory And Practice - 2Nd Edn... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read assigned chapters or sections that align with the course topics.
Reflect on the key concepts and principles presented in the book.

Participate in online discussion forums

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Engage in discussions with fellow learners to exchange perspectives, ask questions, and clarify concepts related to irrigation efficiency.

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Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to irrigation or water resources management.
Actively participate in discussions by sharing your thoughts, asking questions, and responding to others.
Seek support and guidance from more experienced participants or instructors when needed.

Eight other activities

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Calculate crop water requirements

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Engage in practice problems and simulations to improve your ability to calculate crop water requirements accurately, a critical aspect of irrigation efficiency.

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Solve practice problems using the Penman-Monteith equation
Use online calculators or software to estimate crop water needs
Attend a workshop or webinar on crop water requirement calculations

Explore FAO's AquaCrop model

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Familiarize yourself with the AquaCrop model, a valuable tool for simulating crop growth and water use, to enhance your understanding of irrigation efficiency.

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Access the FAO website and download the AquaCrop model.
Follow online tutorials or documentation to learn the basics of the model.
Input data specific to your region or a case study to simulate crop growth and water use.

Explore different irrigation methods

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Explore various irrigation methods and their advantages, disadvantages, and suitability for different crop types and soil conditions to enhance your understanding of irrigation efficiency.

Browse courses on Drip Irrigation

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Watch videos or documentaries on different irrigation methods
Read articles or blog posts on the pros and cons of different irrigation systems
Attend a demonstration or field trip showcasing different irrigation techniques

Solve problems on irrigation efficiency and water management

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Reinforce your understanding of irrigation efficiency principles by solving practice problems and case studies.

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Access online resources or textbooks that provide practice problems.
Solve problems related to topics such as crop water requirements, irrigation scheduling, and conveyance efficiency.
Review solutions and seek support when needed.

Attend a workshop on irrigation efficiency

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Attend a workshop organized by experts or industry professionals to gain practical insights and best practices on improving irrigation efficiency.

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Research and identify relevant workshops
Register and attend the workshop
Actively participate in discussions and activities
Network with professionals in the field

Design an irrigation system for a specific crop

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Apply your knowledge to design an irrigation system that meets the specific water requirements of a crop, considering factors such as soil type, climate, and crop growth stage.

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Research the water requirements of the chosen crop and local climate conditions.
Select an appropriate irrigation method based on factors such as soil type, topography, and available resources.
Design the layout and components of the irrigation system, including water source, conveyance, and application.

Design an irrigation system for a specific crop and location

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Apply your knowledge of irrigation efficiency to design an irrigation system tailored to a specific crop and location, considering factors such as soil type, climate, and water availability.

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Collect data on the crop, soil, and climate conditions
Calculate the crop water requirements
Select an appropriate irrigation method
Design the irrigation system layout and components
Estimate the irrigation efficiency and water savings

Develop a presentation on a contemporary issue in irrigation

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Explore and present your insights on emerging issues and trends shaping the field of irrigation, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

Browse courses on Water Conservation

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Research current trends and challenges in irrigation.
Identify an issue that interests you and gather relevant data and perspectives.
Develop a presentation that clearly communicates your findings and insights.

Career center

Learners who complete Irrigation Efficiency: more food with less water will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Irrigation Engineer

Irrigation Engineers design, build, and maintain irrigation systems for agricultural or landscaping purposes. They consider water availability, soil conditions, and crop water requirements to design efficient systems that meet the needs of the plants being irrigated. This course's focus on irrigation efficiency would prove immensely valuable to those in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Irrigation Engineer

Agricultural Water Management Specialist

Agricultural Water Management Specialists conduct research on and develop methods to improve the efficiency of agricultural water use. They work with farmers and other stakeholders to implement these methods and promote sustainable water use practices. This course helps build a foundation of knowledge on irrigation efficiency methods and practices for those in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Water Management Specialist

Water Resource Manager

Water Resource Managers plan, develop, and manage water resources and systems. They ensure that water is available for various uses, such as drinking, irrigation, and recreation. This course would be valuable to a Water Resource Manager because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to efficiently manage water resources.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resource Manager

Agricultural Engineer

Agricultural Engineers research, design, develop, and test production and processing machinery, equipment, and structures used in agricultural, food, and other biological systems. An understanding of the concepts of irrigation efficiency, the role of water in plant growth, and the design of irrigation systems can be useful to develop, design, and test agricultural systems and equipment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Engineer

Hydrologist

Hydrologists study water quantity, quality, and movement. They monitor water flow, precipitation, and groundwater levels; test water for contamination; and analyze data to understand how water systems work and how they may be affected by human activities. This course helps a Hydrologist by concentrating on aspects of water supply systems and their efficiency.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hydrologist

Soil Scientist

Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. They conduct research on soil fertility, soil erosion, and soil management practices. This course can be useful to a Soil Scientist by providing them with a better understanding of how irrigation practices can affect soil properties.

See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers develop solutions to environmental problems, such as water and air pollution, hazardous waste management, and climate change. They design and implement systems to protect the environment and human health. This course would be useful for someone pursuing a career as an Environmental Engineer because it would provide them with a foundational understanding of water resource management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Water Conservation Specialist

Water Conservation Specialists develop and implement programs to promote water conservation and sustainable water use practices. They work with various stakeholders, including homeowners, businesses, and industries, to reduce water consumption. This course may be useful for someone in this role as it provides an understanding of the principles of irrigation efficiency and how to apply them in real-world settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Conservation Specialist

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide advice and guidance to clients on environmental issues, such as water quality, air pollution, and waste management. This course would be helpful for someone in this role, as it would provide them with a better understanding of the principles of irrigation efficiency and how to apply them in real-world settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Water Policy Analyst

Water Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies related to water resources management. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to develop policies that ensure sustainable water use. This course may be useful for someone pursuing a career as a Water Policy Analyst because it would provide them with a better understanding of irrigation efficiency and water resource management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Policy Analyst

Water Treatment Plant Operator

Water Treatment Plant Operators operate and maintain water treatment plants that provide clean drinking water to communities. This course would be helpful for someone in this role, as it would provide them with a better understanding of the principles of irrigation efficiency and how they can impact water quality.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Treatment Plant Operator

Crop Scientist

Crop Scientists study the growth and development of crops. They conduct research on crop yields, crop quality, and crop management practices. This course may be useful for someone pursuing a career as a Crop Scientist because it would provide them with a better understanding of how irrigation practices can affect crop growth and development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Crop Scientist

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators operate and maintain wastewater treatment plants that remove pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged back into the environment. This course may be useful for someone in this role as it provides an understanding of water resource management and the efficient use of water.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Water Quality Analyst

Water Quality Analysts conduct tests and analyze data to ensure that water meets quality standards for drinking, swimming, and other uses. This course may be useful for someone pursuing a career as a Water Quality Analyst because it would provide them with a better understanding of water quality parameters and how irrigation practices can affect water quality.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Quality Analyst

Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologists study the distribution and movement of groundwater. They investigate groundwater contamination, design groundwater remediation systems, and develop groundwater management plans. This course may be useful for someone pursuing a career as a Hydrogeologist because it would provide them with a better understanding of how irrigation practices can affect groundwater resources.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hydrogeologist