Use of neutron soil-moisture probe to determine water-distribution uniformity in furrow irrigation

In the case of furrow irrigation the efficiency of an irrigation depends upon the lateral spread of water. Hence, this is directly related to the distribution uniformity of water applied. Two methods of water application, with advance ratios of 1/2 and 1/3, were analysed in the field under normal conditions using a neutron soil-moisture probe. The resulting distribution uniformities showed that the advance ratio of 1/3 in combination with cut-back can be the best solution for distribution uniformity problems. The advance ratio of 1/2 is also far better than traditional practices in the region of Provence in southeastern France. (author)