Why You Should Care About Water Quality in Irrigation

Water is a critical input in agriculture, but not all water is created equal. While quantity often takes center stage in irrigation planning, quality can be just as influential—often with longer-term consequences. Farmers, landowners, and agribusinesses must understand how water quality directly impacts crop health, soil productivity, and irrigation infrastructure. The Role of Water in Irrigation Irrigation is more than just delivering moisture to plants. It’s about supporting plant metabolism, enabling nutrient uptake, and maintaining favorable soil conditions. Whether through surface, drip, or sprinkler systems, water acts as a medium that connects soil, fertilizer, and crops. Poor-quality water disrupts this balance, leading to inefficiencies and crop stress. What Is Water Quality? Water quality in irrigation refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of the water being used. Key parameters include pH, electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption rat...