Semi-Annual Report for the technology (drip irrigation) and environmental impact (SWAT modeling) components of "Agroforestry and Sustainable Vegetable Production in Southeast Asian Watersheds" Project

Abstract

Executive Summary: Significant progress has been made for the drip irrigation technology and SWAT modeling components of this project over the past six months. The laboratory drip experiments to determine the effect of hydraulic head and slope on water distribution uniformity of a low-cost drip irrigation technology and consequently generate optimum operating conditions have already been completed. A paper based on the results of the laboratory drip experiments has been accepted for publication in the ISI-indexed Applied Engineering for Agriculture Journal by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Recommendations to improve the performance of the drip kit have also been communicated to the International Development Enterprises. On the other hand, analysis of the results of the field drip experiments has already been started. Results indicate that the crop yield under drip irrigated condition is generally higher than under rainfed conditions. Some of the results of the laboratory and field experiments on drip irrigation were presented at the SANREM Upscaling Conference in Bukidnon in late January 2009.