Influence of irrigation water management on the quantity and quality of irrigation return flows

摘要: Summary Irrigated agriculture is working towards environmental sustainability but more study needed regarding the agro-systems’ response to alterations imposed on them. This work analyzed repercussions that alternative irrigation management can cause water use and quality of return flows. The case Bardenas Canal Irrigation District no. V (ID-V) was studied, by analyzing change salinity nitrate concentration in drainage network through monthly samplings, before (2000) after (2007) ID-V implanted flood management. results showed electric conductivity (25 °C) ditches increased 2007 (0.99 dS/m 62 mg/l) with respect 2000 (0.86 dS/m 57 mg/l). Nevertheless, decrease (88% lower when compared 2000) a result requirement (594 mm against 752 mm increase efficiency (93% 67% 2000), causing Riguel River present flow (13% inferior (1.08 dS/m 1.18 dS/m (29 mg/l 33 mg/l exiting 2007. In summary, simple alternatives achieved an increment 26% use, decreasing 20% 24% salt masses exported, respectively, ameliorating system receiving flows (Riguel River).