Aqualogging tool for web based mapping and mitigation of soil erosion and water pollution in sprinkler irrigation systems

Abstract

Abstract This study presents a web-based tool based on the Green-Ampt model, designed to mitigate soil erosion and water pollution in sprinkler irrigation areas in Artajona, Spain. Called AquaLogging tool, its main objective is to determine the duration of waterlogging in these areas, with emphasis on soil texture to prevent surface runoff. The tool uses soil texture as a key variable to calculate water infiltration, also considering other parameters such as saturated hydraulic conductivity and initial moisture content. The methodology used simulates different irrigation scenarios to obtain different infiltration and runoff curves, which allow us to calculate the time of waterlogging for different scenarios. Through an interactive web map, AquaLogging tool allows quick access to the spatial distribution of irrigation units and soil textural classes, and with a single click we obtain detailed simulation results. In this study, three irrigation scenarios (daily, every 2 days, and every 5 days) are simulated, in which soil texture significantly influences infiltration capacity and surface runoff generation. Clay soils, characteristic of the study area, showed insufficient infiltration, resulting in runoff after short irrigation periods, while loam soils showed a higher infiltration capacity. AquaLogging tool is offered as a practical support tool for efficient irrigation management, helping farmers to make informed decisions on irrigation timing and frequency to optimise water use in irrigation.