Thermal Environment Performance and Uniformity Assessment for a Novel Swine Breeding and Gestation Facility

Abstract

Abstract. In the US, surface irrigation accounts for more acreage than any other irrigation system type including micro and sprinkler irrigation. The major disadvantages associated with surface irrigation are lower efficiencies, high runoff and deep percolation losses. Arkansas irrigates 73% of its farm land in total, with groundwater as its main source of irrigation. It irrigates 89% of its total agricultural irrigated land through surface irrigation, primarily flood and furrow irrigation. With depletion of groundwater in Arkansas, it has become important to promote water efficient practices. Irrigation application efficiency of furrow irrigation can be improved with the use of surge irrigation, cutback irrigation, end-blocking and tail water recovery. Studies have indicated that surge irrigation in row crops can improve irrigation efficiency, distribution uniformity and reduce runoff, deep percolation and advance flow time. Irrigation efficiency for surge irrigation ranged from 48 to 97%, it was found that tail water recovery systems can improve irrigation efficiency by 15 to 30% while an irrigation efficiency of 99% is also achievable. Irrigation efficiency for cutback irrigation ranged from 12% to 49% and a decrease in gross application from 15 to 24% was reported for blocked end furrow irrigation. This paper summarizes the efficiencies of the aforementioned furrow irrigation conservation practices.