Theory question 104
Irrigation and Drainage(a)(i) Define the term irrigation. (ii) Mention two types of irrigation.
(b) Discuss briefly six problems associated with irrigation.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a)(i) Irrigation is the artificial application of water to the soil to supply crops' water needs
(ii) Any two: surface (flood, furrow, basin); overhead/sprinkler; drip/trickle; sub-surface
(b) Any six: high cost of equipment and running; salt accumulation (salinisation); waterlogging; spread of water-borne diseases (bilharzia, malaria); erosion from careless flooding; leaching of nutrients; weed growth; needs skilled labour; scarcity of water sources; silting of channels
Explanation
Definition, two types, then six problems.