Effect of alternate wetting and drying technique (AWD) on water productivity of paddy in major irrigation schemes – A case study in Mahaweli System B
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34117/bjdv10n11-014Abstract
This report investigates the effectiveness of the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technique on water productivity and yield in paddy cultivation within Mahaweli System B, located in Sri Lanka's dry zone. With increasing water scarcity, particularly during the Yala season, farmers struggle to meet irrigation demands using traditional methods. The study compares AWD with conventional irrigation practices, focusing on its ability to reduce water consumption while maintaining or increasing rice yields. Two paddy fields were selected for trials, and the results show that fields using AWD consumed significantly less water, averaging 3.7 feet per acre, compared to 5.3 feet in conventionally irrigated fields. Moreover, AWD fields produced an average yield of 6.04 tons per hectare, an increase of over 100 kg compared to the control fields, which yielded 5.04 tons per hectare. The technique also reduced the frequency of irrigation events, offering a practical solution to water management challenges in the region. These findings indicate that AWD can enhance water productivity without sacrificing crop yield, making it a promising strategy for areas facing water scarcity. However, further studies across multiple seasons and varied locations are recommended to validate its long-term benefits and adaptability.
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