Why Choose Micro-Irrigation?
Micro-irrigation systems offer a more efficient alternative to flood and sprinkler irrigation. Crop irrigation accounts for 70% of the world's fresh water use.¹ Implementing an irrigation program that incorporates a micro-irrigation system can drastically reduce the amount of water used each year while helping to increase crop yields.
With micro-irrigation:
- Less water is lost to evaporation and runoff. Micro-irrigation tubes are on the ground (or even in the ground) and deliver water to the exact spot it is needed.
- Plants or crops receive the correct amount of water. Over-watering is a frequent cause of disease and contributes to poor crop yield.
- Fertigation and chemigation are possible. Precise levels of fertilizer and nutrients can be delivered.
- Less pressure is required. That means less energy is used compared to other higher-pressure irrigation systems.
- Less labor is required. Once a micro-irrigation system is installed properly it can be much easier to maintain than other systems (including center pivots), and the opportunity for fertigation increases operational efficiency.
- More uniform water distribution. Reduced dependency on gravity as the transportation method. Runoff from gravity irrigation systems is often enriched in sediment and phosphates.
Choosing irrigation materials made with FINGERPRINT™ Resins is an excellent way to ensure your system is made to stand the test of time.
¹Pimentel, Berger, et al., "Water resources: agricultural and environmental issues", BioScience 54.10 (Oct 2004), p909
®™* Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") or an affiliated company of Dow
