Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation (also referred to as trickle or micro irrigation) is the slow, frequent, even application of low pressure water to the soil surface near the base of plants or directly into the root zone of the plants (subsurface) through a network of tubing and outlets (emitters). In 2005 and 2006, a study was conducted at the Agricultural Science Center (ASC) to evaluate a low-tech, low-cost, gravity-pressured drip irrigation system. The system was developed in India by International Development Enterprises (IDE) and was designed to provide an efficient means of irrigation for small-scale, resource-poor farmers, in developing countries, who cannot afford conventional drip systems. The ASC became interested in evaluating the system for potential use on isolated homesteads of The Navajo Indian Reservation where water resources are extremely limited but where vegetable production is desirable. Through funding provided by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Water Conservation Field Services Program, researches at the ASC evaluated the system as used to irrigate a vegetable garden consisting of chile peppers, sweet corn, and tomatoes.
Drip Irrigation Resources
Drip (or micro) irrigation has been receiving increased attention in recent years as an important component of water conservation. The volume of literature pertaining to drip irrigation and the number of suppliers of drip irrigation components has concurrently increased. A list of some of these resources, including links to several educational and commercial websites is provided here. The list is not complete and represents only a sampling of the resources available. The mention (or failure to mention) a resource does not constitute an endorsement or rejection of a resource by New Mexico State University or the preparer of the list. The list is provided as an introduction only and the user is encouraged to seek out and explore all available resources.
Drip Irrigation for Small Farms
ASC Farmington researchers have been studying a low-tech, low-cost, gravity system for use on small crop plots. A presentation of the latest research, as portable document format (.pdf), is provided for your printing convenience.