Increasing the Cropping Intensity by Changing the Cropping Pattern in a Minor Tank

Abstract

Water scarcity is the main course for the poor cropping intensities and crop failures in most of the minor tanks located in dry zone. This situation can be addressed in several ways. This study focused on changing the cropping pattern to increase the cropping intensity because this method can be implemented immediately. A minor tank located in Anuradhapura district was selected for the study. Water resources in the catchment was analyzed using the method described in the irrigation department guide line. As the catchment is ungauged 75% probable rainfall of the zone in which the tank belongs was used in analyzing the water availability. Combinations of crop types were considered and paddy and soya bean were selected as the type of crops. Water requirement for both crops were calculated and a water balance study was done for three scenarios. An income comparison between three scenarios were done to find the most beneficial scenario out of the three. As the study was based on the parameters given in the irrigation guideline, present situation was analyzed for the variation of parameters within a range of 25%