Farmers and horticulturalists increasingly face economic losses due to drought and recognise the need for better water management.
WaterReserve piloted levelcontrolled drainage and rainwater infiltration across test plots, testing three scenarios: conventional drainage with high groundwater retention, direct rainwater connection to drainage, and subirrigation combined with small weirs.
The results show promising potential: better infiltration and conservation of rainwater during the growing season and dry periods, and more insights into the short-term effects on groundwater levels.
The success of these techniques depends on weather conditions, site characteristics, and the willingness of farmers to manage higher water levels.
