Theory question 104
Irrigation and Drainage(a) Distinguish between irrigation and drainage.
(b) State and explain four systems of irrigation and two of drainage.
Show the model answer
(a) Irrigation is the artificial supply of water to the soil for crops; drainage is the removal of excess water from the soil
(b) Irrigation (any four): surface/flood irrigation – water flooded over the field; furrow irrigation – water runs in furrows between ridges; basin/check irrigation – water held in levelled basins; sprinkler (overhead) – water sprayed like rain from pipes; drip/trickle – water delivered slowly to each plant; sub-surface irrigation – water supplied from below through pipes
Drainage (any two): surface drainage – open ditches/channels; sub-surface drainage – tile drains, mole drains, perforated pipes; vertical drainage (pumping from wells)
Show the difference clearly, then describe each system in a line.