A 2020 Vision of Subsurface Drip Irrigation in the U.S.

Highlights Subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) has continued to expand in area within the U.S. during last 15 years. Research with SDI continues for multiple crop types (fiber, grain and oilseed, horticultural, forage, turf). usage on many crops matured through research development of appropriate strategies technologies Despite some persistent challenges successful use SDI, important opportunities exist further adoption. Abstract . offers several advantages over alternative systems when it is designed installed correctly best management practices are adopted. These include ability apply water nutrients directly efficiently root zone. Disadvantages commercial agriculture relative greater capital cost per unit land (except small parcels), unfamiliar maintenance protocols that can exacerbate potential emitter clogging, visibility system attributes (components design characteristics) performance, susceptibility damage (i.e., rodents tillage) subsurface driplines. these disadvantages, be adopted U.S., efforts evaluate develop continue as well. This article summarizes recent progress (2010 2020) status adoption along a discussion current future opportunities. Keywords: Drip Irrigation, Irrigation systems, Microirrigation, Water management.