Application of sand and geotextile envelope in subsurface drip irrigation

Subsurface drip irrigation is a technology used for better management of irrigation water. This technique is more desirable in arid and semi-arid region, because of decreasing soil surface evaporation and more efficiency of irrigation system in comparison with the other irrigation systems. Inaddition, this system is a safer way for treated wastewater (TWW) reuse in irrigation lands. But roots and clay particles can clog drip emitters in systems buried below the soil surface. In this paper, sand and geotextile filtration methods have been suggested for solving root intrusion and biological plugging problems for subsurface drip applications. Sand envelope around the emitters has been recommended for deeper root zone and long term application of system, while geotextile envelope is suitable for seasonal crops with shallow root. Key words : Subsurface drip irrigation, sand and geotextile, emitters.