Professor of IPB university Develops Subsurface Irrigation to Increase Water Efficiency

Professor of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology at IPB University, Prof Satyanto Krido Saptomo, developed subsurface irrigation technology as an efficient and sustainable solution for agriculture in Indonesia. This technology is claimed to be able to increase water use efficiency while boosting crop productivity.

In the Press Conference of Pre Scientific Oration of Professor of IPB University (6/26), Prof Satyanto explained that the subsurface irrigation and drainage system is able to maintain optimal soil moisture without causing puddles on the surface of the land.

“This technology delivers and controls water below the soil surface, in contrast to conventional irrigation that irrigates the land through the surface,” he explained.

“The results of field tests at the Sukamandi Rice Research Station, Subang, show that this system is able to reduce groundwater levels, accelerate land drying, and increase rice productivity by 13,36 percent,” added Prof Satyanto.

He added that water use efficiency increased by 20 percent in the aspect of evapotranspiration (the combination of water evaporation from the soil and water vapor release from plants), and 14 percent overall.

In another experiment, the use of sheet-pipes in this system was able to reduce irrigation water demand by 50,5 percent, despite a decrease in crop yields by 15,5-18,6 percent. However, water use efficiency was recorded to increase to 70,8 percent, with water productivity reaching 3,2-10,4 percent.

The technology is also integrated with an Internet of Things (IoT) system, equipped with water level sensors, solenoid valves, and a Remote Telemetry and Control Unit (RTCU) that allows real-time monitoring and regulation of water levels through a cloud-based dashboard.

Prof Satyanto said the development of this system contributes significantly to water efficiency, increased productivity, and environmental sustainability. Although it still faces challenges related to cost and installation, improvement efforts continue to be made through the development of manual installation methods and material modifications to make it more affordable and scalable.

“With a multidisciplinary approach involving engineering, agronomy, and ecology, this technology is expected to be a strategic solution for resilient, adaptive, and water-efficient agriculture in the future,” he concluded. (IAAS/NVA)