Assessment of the Economic Impact of Pressure Variation in Drip Irrigation Systems for Maize Production

Abstract

Irrigation is crucial for optimizing crop yields, with drip irrigation serving as an efficient method for delivering precise water quantities directly to plants. Evaluating the economic implications of pressure variations within drip systems is essential for enhancing productivity and profitability. This study aimed to thoroughly assess the economic consequences of pressure variations in drip irrigation systems for maize cultivation, offering valuable insights for farmers, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders. This study was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in the Morogoro Region of Tanzania. A randomized complete block design was employed, featuring three inlet pressure treatments – 1.0 bar, 1.5 bar, and 2.0 bar – each replicated three times. Uncompensated drippers were used to supply water efficiently, and volumetric measurements determined emitter flow rates. During the first cropping season, maize evapotranspiration was measured at 271.2 mm, while the second season recorded 212.3 mm. Results showed slight variations in yields across the pressure treatments: in the first season, yields were 2,340.9 kg/ha (T1), 2,432.7 kg/ha (T2), and 2,708.1 kg/ha (T3). In the second season, yields were 2,203.2 kg/ha (T1), 2,233.8 kg/ha (T2), and 2,646.9 kg/ha (T3). The net profit per hectare over the system's long lifespan was estimated at $1,103 (T1), $1,139 (T2), and $1,250 (T3) in the first season and $993 (T1), $1,005 (T2), and $1,170 (T3) in the second season. The Benefit-Cost Ratios (BCRs) were notably favorable, with values of 16.53 (T1), 17.63 (T2), and 20.93 (T3) during the first season. In the second season, the BCRs ranged from 14.88 (T1) and 15.25 (T2) to 20.20 (T3), indicating strong economic viability for long-term investment. These findings underscore drip irrigation as a sustainable water management strategy in agriculture. Based on the results, the adoption of drip irrigation systems is recommended for long-term use. Additionally, utilizing a pressure of 2 bars is suggested to enhance water use efficiency (WUE) and profitability, especially for maize farmers in water-scarce regions. Effective water management is critical; therefore, proper irrigation scheduling– considering the timing and quantity of water application – is essential to optimize yields and prevent inefficient water use.