Deficit irrigation boosts crop and water productivity in Ethiopia, unlocking sustainable agriculture amid water scarcity.
The article reviews how using less water for irrigation, known as deficit irrigation, can help improve crop and water productivity in Ethiopia. By deliberately stressing crops with less water, farmers can save water while still getting decent yields. Studies show that deficit irrigation leads to better overall water productivity compared to using full amounts of water. Even though crop yields may slightly decrease with deficit irrigation, the benefits of saving water for more land outweigh this loss. Using water-saving methods like alternate furrow and deficit irrigation is crucial in ensuring there's enough food for the growing population as irrigation water becomes scarcer in Ethiopia. In conclusion, deficit irrigation is a key strategy for sustainable agriculture in Ethiopia.