375 Borlaug Hall and via Zoom
Abstract
The environmental impact of irrigated agriculture on ground and surface water resources in central Minnesota is of major concern. These areas are characterized by coarse-textured soils, high water tables that are vulnerable to contamination, and extensive agricultural crop production with highly water-sensitive crops such as corn, potatoes, and edible beans. Irrigation is essential for crop production in this region due to low water holding capacities and rapid drainage of the soils. However, improper management of irrigation leads to deep percolation of water below the root zone and leaching of nitrate in the groundwater. Nitrate contamination of groundwater above the maximum contamination limit (MCL) of 10 mg N/L especially in the areas where groundwater is the source of drinking water, poses a major public health risk. In this talk, I will give a brief update on some of my research projects focusing on developing and evaluating the best irrigation management practices that would enhance the crop water productivity and protect our water resources