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on soil microbial populations in a replicated trial. Their
experiment focused on the DNA of the microbes in their
samples, which allowed them to measure the relative
intensity—or a rough proportion—of various nitrogen-
fixing and denitrifying-genetic material found in each
treatment.
The researchers found that the portion of the field
irrigated with the air injection system had a microbial
population that was less likely to produce volatile nitrous
oxides and more likely to leave plant-available nitrate in
the root zone.
WHO WILL SAVE THE WORLD?
There's no question that irrigation is a lifeline that will
help mankind weather an increasingly erratic climate and
meet the mushrooming demand for food, fuel and fiber.
Increasing the efficiency of irrigation and making every
drop of water and every joule of energy count will be
vital. One of the key lessons we're learning as we uncover
the mysteries of the soil is just how complex the world of
the root zone really is. By balancing water and oxygen in
the soil and enhancing the environment for the microbial
traders that give our crops the best possible deal, we can
help farmers literally save the world.
This article previously appeared in the Irrigation
Association's Irrigation Today publication in October
2016.
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An air injector uses water fl owing through the irrigation
system to draw air into the line, allowing the drip tape to
deliver both water and air to the crop's roots.
