Evaluating Tile Drainage/Water Management Effects on Wheat, Canola and Soybeans productivity in Heavy Clay Soils

Tile drainage is becoming popular as a way to control excess moisture in the field to increase productivity. Yet, the economic return on investment (ROI) on installing tile drainage is not known for wheat, canola, and soybeans in Manitoba. This research will allow us to assess the impact of water management through controlled drainage on yield and quality of wheat, canola, and soybeans. Detailed soil moisture measurements along with water table depth at different times will help us model water flow within the rootzone and its impact on crop yield. Data collected in this study will be used to calibrate computer models (HYDRUS, DrainMOD) for this location so that weather data from different years could be modeled to assess the long-term impact of tile drainage. The field has drains placed at 15’, 30’, and 45’ allowing different degrees of drainage. Rotating the three crops through these different spacings will help assess the impact of different drainage intensities. Excess moisture is a big constraint in crop production in Manitoba.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ramanathan Sri Ranjan

Student:

Thushyanthy Akileshan

Partner:

Manitoba Wheat and Barley Growers Association

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

University of Manitoba