Water Supplies (i) What is the term given to the artificial watering of crops as shown above? (ii) Name one such scheme that you have studied - Junior Cycle Geography - Question B - 2012

One scheme that I have studied is "Drip Irrigation."

One advantage of drip irrigation is its efficiency in water usage. By delivering water directly to the roots of plants, it minimizes evaporation and runoff, ensuring that the majority of the water reaches where it is needed most. This can lead to better crop yields and significant water savings, especially in arid regions.

One disadvantage of drip irrigation is the initial installation cost, which can be high compared to traditional irrigation methods. The system requires proper design and setup, leading to significant upfront expenses. Additionally, if not maintained properly, the drip lines can become clogged, requiring regular maintenance to ensure effectiveness.