Salinization of groundwater by irrigation return flows*

Understanding and managing the impact of return flows to shallow groundwater from irrigated cultivation of permeable soils have been seriously neglected by agricultural researchers, advisors and water managers, and does not figure in practical guidance to farmers on soil and water management. An assessment of serious groundwater salinization by this mechanism is provided and illustrated by some researched examples. This assessment identifies the specific circumstances and key factors involved and makes suggestions on land and water management measures that can help to mitigate the problem.

Automated summary

Understanding and managing the impact of return flows to shallow groundwater from irrigated cultivation of permeable soils have been seriously neglected, which does not figure in practical guidance to farmers on soil and water management. This assessment provides examples of serious groundwater salinization and identifies key factors involved, suggesting measures that can help to mitigate the problem.