Understanding groundwater, agronomy and drainage system design influences on tile water quantity and quality

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Artificial drainage provides extensive agronomic and economic benefits for agricultural production in poorly-drained soils, covering about 11% of worldwide and 14% of Canadian arable lands. In southern Ontario, approximately 45% of crop lands are tile drained. Artificial drainage improves agricultural production by reducing excess moisture and improving crop yields since drainage allows timely planting earlier and with less compaction. However, artificial drainage modifies the hydrologic (water) cycle as well as the types of environmental risks associated with cropland. The goal of this research partnership is to examine how various types of tile drainage systems impact groundwater quantity and quality, and conversely how spatiotemporal variations in groundwater elevation, quality and geology influence tile drainage. This will be carried out using an experimental farm site (Huronview Demonstration Farm) located near Clinton, Ontario in a typical Great Lakes Basin setting (Lake Huron). It will involve field investigations, such as groundwater and tile water quality sampling, and predictive modelling using specialized groundwater-surface water software. Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), Huron County Soil and Crop Improvement Association (HCSCIA), Land Improvement Contractors of Ontario (LICO), Huron County, University of Guelph and University of Waterloo will explore the technical aspects of this topic, with the findings leading to practical extension to agronomic production and tile drainage installation practices for end-users. The anticipated outcomes are an improved understanding of tile-groundwater interactions and water balance/water quality; a predictive modelling methodology to examine how to best manage controlled drainage tile systems under variable climatic conditions/weather events; a methodology for tile installers to consider subsurface conditions when identifying suitable drain system layouts; and recommendations for water managers/farmers regarding the operation and appropriateness of subsurface drainage systems (contour and standard) for water quantity and quality.