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Interesting Desert Farm Irrigation System
Desert farming generally relies on irrigation technology to make the desert bloom. Australia, Israel, Africa are places with interesting desert agriculture.
Desert Farm Water System
In most cases of desert farming, irrigation from surface flows is difficult as water tables drop and river channel incised its floodplain. In some places canals are built and areas of watershed developed with proper elevations and soils. In places where underground water sources are abundant, irrigation through groundwater pumping is common.
Drip Irrigation In Desert Farms
Drip irrigation is one way to reduce overall water demand. Drip irrigation in desert was practiced since ancient days where buried clay pots were filled with water and food plants were grown around them. The water seeped slowly through the clay pots to surrounding soil, wetting to the roots of the plants. Drip irrigation waters plant roots very slowly.
As ancient as it may be, drip irrigation has taken on increased importance in desert agriculture to increase yield and conserve precious water. Agricultural scientists use pipes made of clay to create the dual system of drainage and irrigation. Large scale drip irrigation employs pipes, tubing, valves and emitters to minimize water usage while maximizing water to root zones of plants. In modern drip irrigation technology, water is no longer released through tiny holes in tubing as these holes are easily blocked by tiny particles of earth, sand and other debris. Instead, the release of water is slow down by friction.