Author(s): Tomasz Okruszko; Mikolaj Piniewski; Pawel Marcinkowski
Linked Author(s): Tomasz Okruszko
Keywords: Supplemental irrigation small water retention modelling
Abstract: The water supply challenge in the agricultural sector requires immediate attention, particularly due to the overexploitation of water resources and the increasing impacts of climate change. This study investigates the use of supplemental irrigation in Central Europe, where a specific approach known as supplemental irrigation is practiced. The focus is on the necessity for sustainable water management strategies and the exploration of small water retention measures (SWRMs) as potential solutions to enhance water availability in agriculture. A macro-scale water balance study employs the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to assess the spatio-temporal variability of water demand for supplemental irrigation in Poland. Additionally, the study evaluates the effectiveness of SWRMs in fulfilling irrigation requirements at a national level. The findings from the model experiments highlighted concerns regarding the inadequacy of relying solely on the construction of small retention facilities to meet the water needs of irrigated agriculture, particularly during severely dry years. This research enhances the understanding of irrigation water demands in temperate climate regions, supports evidence-based practices for sustainable water management, and provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders engaged in water governance
Year: 2025