Irrigation Methods, Water Quality and Sanitary Issues

Irrigation Methods, Water Quality and Sanitary Issues

Russell LillyMDHSS

Is it a real problem?

Irrigation water does not need to have the purity of domestic water unless it is used for domestic purposes, but it must be protected against gross contamination.

The solution is one of education. We, in this dry section of the United States, where irrigation is necessary, must separate our food from our feces,

It’s Just Water, Isn't it?It’s Just Water, Isn't it?

Irrigation waterPlants absorb more than just waterDifficult to remove 100% of debris

The KEYThe KEY

MatchCrop needs

– For growth and food safetyWater delivery methodWater quality

average monthly precipitation

0

1

23

4

5

6

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Month

Inch

es

Series1

Do you need to irrigate this crop?Do you need to irrigate this crop?

Irrigation MethodsIrrigation Methods

SprayFlood / FurrowDripPray for rain

SpraySpray

CommonWater contacts entire plantMaintenance, spray headsNegative effect depends on source

Big gun application of dairy waste

Flood / FurrowFlood / Furrow

Common in the southLess expensiveCan be difficult to get even distributionNegative effect is dependant on source and type of plant

DripDrip

Pricey to installMaintenanceGreat for conservationNegative issues depend on type of plant

Water quality standards and treatmentWater quality standards and treatment

SourceSource

Identify water sources and potential means of contamination

Surface water & springsPrivate wellsMunicipal supply

Contamination from what?Harmful pathogens

– Ecoli, shigella, Hepatitis A, Salmonella– Warm blooded animals, livestock, wildlife, people

What to Use, What to UseWhat to Use, What to Use

Surface water is more vulnerable to contamination

Difficult to monitor and control

Karst TopographyKarst Topography

A Better ChoiceA Better Choice

Private well subject to construction and hydrology

Consider routine testingKeep records of testing

Safe, But Practical?Safe, But Practical?

Municipal water less prone to problemsTesting already taking place

Testing?Testing?

What to test forTotal coliformE-coli

Who can run the testMDHSS State Lab in Jeff CitySome Local health DepartmentsPrivate lab

Sampling method

More Potable Water?More Potable Water?

Non-Irrigation waterCooling, wash water, ice, pesticide application and frost protection

Water Supply ProtectionWater Supply Protection

Backflow preventionAir gapDevicesSeparation

Water Supply ProtectionWater Supply Protection

SummarySummary

Irrigation methodsWater sourcesWater testingWater supply protection