Modeling paddy field subsurface drainage using HYDRUS-2D

Abstract

All of steady and non-steady subsurface drainage equations were developed mostly based on water flow pattern in an ordinary field conditions. However, subsurface drainage in a paddy field is quite different from subsurface drainage in an ordinary field. Thus, it is necessary to develop new equations and mathematical models to design subsurface drainage system in a paddy field. The objective of this study was to apply the HYDRUS-2D model, based on the Richard’s equation, to simulate water flow under subsurface drainage in a paddy field for various drain depths (0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 m) and spacings (7.5 and 15.0 m), surface soil textures (clay loam and silty clay loam) and crack conditions. Simulation results were compared with two well-known drainage equations. The maximum drainage rate was obtained under 7.5-m spacings and 1-m depth. With increasing drain spacings, the drainage rate decreased. Drain spacings had more effect on drainage rate and water pressure head as compared to drain depth. Drainage rates calculated by the Hooghoudt’s and Murashima and Ogino’s equations were much lower than those calculated by the Richard’s equation. The Hooghoudt’s equation, developed for ordinary fields, did not perform well for paddy fields. This study also proved the importance of cracks in subsurface drainage system of paddy fields. HYDRUS-2D stands as a robust tool for designing subsurface drainage in a paddy field.