Irrigation with effluent water
Management Activity
Irrigation is the controlled application of water to maintain or enhance vegetative growth; it is used to supplement rainfall. Water for irrigation may be obtained from surface or ground water sources, including rivers, lakes, dams, bores and recycled effluent water. This page focuses on irrigation with effluent water. Effluent water is generated through the treatment of sewage or from intensive animal production and dairies. Effluent water is often high in salts and nutrients and can carry pathogens. Irrigation with effluent water is used mainly on pastures and can affect pasture performance and soil health.
The direct impacts of irrigation with effluent water may include:
- Increased plant available water
- Increased ground cover
- Increased canopy cover
- Soil nutrient built up
- Increased soil salinity
If over-irrigation occurs the following impacts may result:
- Increased soil waterlogging
- Changed deep drainage
- Increased soil erosion
- If excess irrigation water drains into waterways it can lead to:
Last updated 7 September 2010
