In the heart of semi-arid regions, where every drop of water is a precious resource, farmers and agritech innovators are constantly seeking ways to optimize irrigation systems for maximum efficiency. A recent study, led by Zechariah Jeremaiho Othong from the West Africa Center for Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA) at the University of Development Studies in Ghana, and the Department of Agricultural Engineering at Upper Nile University in South Sudan, has shed new light on the performance of center pivot irrigation systems in these challenging climates. Published in ‘Acta Scientiarum Polonorum. Formatio Circumiectus’ (which translates to ‘Papers of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Environment’), the research offers valuable insights that could shape the future of irrigation technology and water management in agriculture.
Center pivot irrigation systems have long been a staple in modern farming, offering a balance between efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, their performance in semi-arid climates has often been a subject of debate. Othong’s study aimed to evaluate the hydraulic and field performance of these systems, focusing on two specific models: the Almutawar and the Zimmatic systems.
The research involved a meticulous setup: two rows of catch-cans, spaced three meters apart and radiating outward from the pivot point, were used to measure the distribution and uniformity of irrigation. This method provided a clear picture of how effectively each system delivered water to the fields.
The results were promising. For the Almutawar system, the average performance metrics for the 2022/2023 season showed a Coefficient of Uniformity (CU) of 77.8% and a Distribution Uniformity (DU) of 85.7%. These figures slightly improved in the 2023/2024 season, with a CU of 78.9% and a DU of 85.6%. The Zimmatic system performed even better, with a CU of 79.1% and a DU of 87.5% in the 2022/2023 season, and a CU of 79.9% and a DU of 85.8% in the following season.
“These results indicate that both systems are capable of delivering water with a high degree of uniformity, which is crucial for optimizing crop yield and water use in semi-arid regions,” Othong explained. “However, there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of design compliance and efficiency.”
One of the most intriguing findings was the variation in hydraulic function with different steering modes. This suggests that the performance of center pivot systems could be further enhanced through careful design and optimization. “Further investigation into these discrepancies could help in developing more efficient and effective irrigation systems,” Othong noted.
The study also revealed a general trend of improved performance in the 2023/2024 season, although the differences were not statistically significant. This could be attributed to various factors, including changes in weather patterns, system maintenance, and operational practices.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector, particularly in regions where water scarcity is a pressing issue. By optimizing irrigation systems, farmers can reduce water waste and improve crop yields, ultimately leading to more sustainable and profitable agricultural practices. Moreover, the findings could pave the way for the development of new technologies and innovations that address the unique challenges of semi-arid climates.
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change and increasing water scarcity, studies like Othong’s are more important than ever. They provide valuable insights into the performance of irrigation systems and offer a roadmap for future developments in the field. By leveraging these findings, farmers and agritech innovators can work together to create a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector, ensuring food security and economic stability for generations to come.
In the words of Othong, “This research is just the beginning. There is still much to learn and discover, but I am confident that with continued effort and innovation, we can overcome the challenges of water scarcity and build a brighter future for agriculture.”