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State what is meant by the term irrigation - Junior Cycle Geography - Question i - 2019
Question i
State what is meant by the term irrigation. Describe one positive effect and one negative effect of any irrigation scheme that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:State what is meant by the term irrigation - Junior Cycle Geography - Question i - 2019
Step 1
State what is meant by the term irrigation.
Answer
Irrigation refers to the artificial application of water to soil or land to assist in the growth of crops. This practice is essential in areas where rainfall is insufficient or irregular, helping to deliver necessary moisture to farming areas for optimal agricultural productivity.
Step 2
Describe one positive effect and one negative effect of any irrigation scheme that you have studied.
Answer
One positive effect of an irrigation scheme, such as the Aswan High Dam in Egypt, is that it increases agricultural productivity by providing a reliable water source throughout the year, enabling farmers to grow crops during both wet and dry seasons. This has led to improved food security and economic stability in the region.
On the other hand, a negative effect of such irrigation schemes can include environmental degradation, such as soil salinization. In the case of the Central Valley Project in the USA, excessive irrigation can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can reduce soil fertility over time, hindering crop growth and negatively affecting ecosystems.