Impact of soil salinity, sodicity, and irrigation water salinity on crop production and coping mechanism in areas of dryland farming

Abstract

Dryland agricultural regions face significant challenges due to soil and irrigation water salinity, which significantly affect crop yield. The high salt content in soil and irrigation water poses a significant risk to agriculture's productivity and long-term viability. Soil salinity hinders crop development by impeding water absorption, causing osmotic stress, and altering nutrient accessibility. Similarly, increased salt levels in irrigation water directly impact the water quality used for agricultural irrigation. This can result in reduced crop output, slowed plant development, reduced nutrient absorption, and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases. To address these issues, farmers in arid regions use effective irrigation methods like drip irrigation, precision agricultural methods, gypsum that improves sodicity by supplying calcium ions, and salt-perennial salt-tolerated grass and crop rotation systems. Integrated management strategies, including efficient irrigation scheduling and soil conservation, can effectively handle soil and water salinity concerns in dryland agricultural regions. These methods encourage sustainable farming systems that maximize resource consumption, increase soil health, and boost crop output. Successful coping techniques require a comprehensive understanding of local variables, including soil and water quality, and crop requirements. Farmer education and awareness initiatives also play a crucial role in spreading information about salinity management measures and promoting their adoption.