Which method can improve water efficiency in irrigation systems?

Using advanced monitoring systems significantly enhances water efficiency in irrigation systems. These systems can include technologies such as soil moisture sensors, weather forecasts, and computerized irrigation controls, which help determine the exact water needs of plants at various times. This targeted approach minimizes water waste by ensuring that irrigation occurs precisely when and where it is needed, reducing overwatering and encouraging plants to develop more robust root systems.

In contrast, traditional methods like flood irrigation tend to distribute water inefficiently over a large area, often leading to runoff and evaporation losses. Similarly, consistently overwatering could result in waterlogging and other detrimental effects, while conventional sprinkler systems, without advanced monitoring, may not adapt to changes in weather conditions or plant needs, leading to inefficient water usage. Therefore, implementing advanced monitoring systems represents a strategic improvement in managing water resources effectively for irrigation.