GEOSPATIAL ASSESSMENT OF IRRIGATION WATER POTENTIAL FOR BLACK SOIL SALINIZATION

The quantum of irrigation water used as supplementary or as dependent source and its quality, could contribute to the development of secondary soil salinity. This affects on the crop growth and yield as well degrades the soil over the period. River, open dug well and tube well is used in intensive sugarcane cultivation in the Krishna, Warana and Yerala basin. An attempt has been done to understand the water quality and it’s spatial distribution. Water Quality Index were created based spatial distribution of hydrochemical parameters and derived indices - salinity, sodium absorption ratio, percent sodium ratio, residual sodium carbonate and permeability index. The changes in salinity of irrigation water from post to pre monsoon season indicates salt movement and addition through return flows. The order of importance of geochemical parameters suggested can act as tool for proper management through WQI. Nevertheless continuous monitoring of irrigation sources and proper drainage facilities are needed to overcome effect of poor quality irrigation water sources.