Em4885 irrigation management practices to protect ground water

IP 2.03.09 - Use Reservoir Tillage (Dammer/Diker) Techniques
with Sprinkle Systems to Reduce Field Runoff
Objective
Reduce transport of sediment and other potential pollutants to surface water supplies.
57
CHAPTER 4
Description
Dammer/dikers create small reservoirs at even intervals in the field to help retain excess
water application from sprinkle systems. This management practice is applicable to
sprinkle systems on any soil type. It may be especially beneficial for fine-textured soils,
or even coarse soils if on steep slopes. This method was developed primarily to reduce
excessive runoff and soil erosion by increasing infiltration opportunity time.
Pacific Northwest Extension publication PNW287, Irrigation Runoff Control Strategies,
(January 1986) discusses the problem of excess application rates in detail and gives more
options for corrective action. Bonneville Power Administration publication DOW/BP-
21925-9, Reservoir Tillage for Controlling Runoff and Saving Energy, published
October 1985, also discusses the use and results of reservoir tillage techniques.
IMPORTANT!!! Because this method can result in increased infiltration volumes, there
is an increased risk of deep percolation. The irrigation manager must control the total
application of water at all times.
IP 2.03.10 - Install Runoff-Reuse Systems (see IP 2.02.11)
Objective
Reduce transport of sediment and other potential pollutants to surface water supplies.