An improved wide furrow micro-catchment for large-scale implementation of water-harvesting systems in arid areas

A new water harvesting (WH) micro-catchment technique [Wide Furrow with Back-placed transplanting area (WFB)], implemented using a specially developed inexpensive plow, was experimented and compared to a popular technique [the Deep Furrow (DF)] under East Mediterranean arid environment. Both WH micro-catchments with 4, 8, and 12 m long runoff area were planted with 1, 2, and 6-month old Atriplex seedlings. A multi-criterion method for comparison was employed, where the following parameters were evaluated: Sedimentation thickness and infiltration rate inside the micro-catchments; stored water in the soil profile; seasonal WH efficiency; plant productivity over two years; and the ease of mechanizing the implementation system. The DF technique showed higher WH efficiency and greater soil water storage, however, the WFB technique showed thinner sedimentation, higher infiltration rates and comparable plant productivity. Both techniques increased the wetting period of the top soil layers significantly and provided the soil reservoir with available water for more than one season. Using WFB technique and employing 1–2-month old Atriplex transplants facilitate mechanized transplanting and/or seed drilling for mixed cropping as well as mechanized maintenance of the micro-catchments, which will presumably encourage large-scale implementation and improve the sustainability of the WH structures.

► A new WH technique, suitable for mixed cropping, was introduced.
► Mechanizing water harvesting systems is decisive in combating desertification.
► Easy maintenance of WH structures is vital for their sustainability.
► Seasonal WH efficiency is more indicative than that of individual rainfall events.
► A multi-criterion method of evaluation of WH techniques was introduced.