Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.4, 232-242 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 238 7 Comparative Analysis of AWD with Other Water-Saving Techniques 7.1 System of rice intensification (SRI) The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a method that aims to increase the yield of rice produced in farming. SRI involves changes in the management of plants, soil, water, and nutrients. It is labor-intensive and requires precise timing and management, which can be a barrier for adoption in labor-scarce regions. However, it has been shown to improve water use efficiency and yield in some cases. SRI can be less feasible for poor farmers due to the high labor requirements and the need for specialized knowledge and training (Mallareddy et al., 2023). 7.2 Direct seeding of rice (DSR) Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) is another water-saving technique that involves sowing seeds directly into the field rather than transplanting seedlings. This method can save water and labor, making it suitable for areas with labor shortages. DSR can reduce the duration to maturity and lower production costs. However, it faces challenges such as weed infestation, which can significantly reduce yields if not managed properly. Effective weed management strategies are crucial for the success of DSR (Shekhawat et al., 2020; Pratap et al., 2022; Mallareddy et al., 2023). 7.3 Dry-seeded rice and other techniques Dry-Seeded Rice (dry-DSR) is a variant of DSR where seeds are sown in dry soil. This method is resource-efficient and environmentally friendly, but it faces issues with seedling emergence and growth. Seed treatments with substances like wood vinegar and biochar have been shown to improve germination and seedling growth, enhancing the overall yield of dry-DSR (Zhang et al., 2022). Other techniques such as aerobic rice and drip-irrigated rice also aim to save water but are often not feasible for small-scale farmers due to high costs and labor requirements (Mallareddy et al., 2023). 7.4 Comparative benefits and drawbacks Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) stands out as a promising water-saving technique due to its balance of cost-effectiveness, water savings, and environmental benefits. AWD can reduce water inputs by 25-70%, lower methane emissions by 11-95%, and decrease the accumulation of heavy metals in rice grains while maintaining or even improving yields (Sriphirom et al., 2019; Ishfaq et al., 2020; Enriquez et al., 2021). However, the adoption of AWD can be hindered by the need for precise water management and the risks associated with crop failure, especially in areas with unpredictable rainfall (Samoy-Pascual et al., 2021; Suwanmaneepong et al., 2023). In comparison, SRI and DSR offer significant water savings and yield improvements but come with higher labor and management requirements. Dry-DSR, while efficient, requires additional interventions like seed treatments to overcome initial growth challenges. Each method has its own set of advantages and limitations, and the choice of technique often depends on local conditions such as labor availability, soil type, and climate (Shekhawat et al., 2020; Pratap et al., 2022; Zhang et al., 2022; Mallareddy et al., 2023). In summary, while AWD offers a balanced approach with significant water and environmental benefits, the choice between AWD, SRI, DSR, and other techniques should be made based on specific local conditions and resource availability. 8 Future Directions in Water Management for Rice Cultivation 8.1 Innovations in AWD techniques Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) has shown significant promise in reducing water usage and greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining or even improving rice yields. Future innovations in AWD techniques could focus on optimizing the timing and degree of soil drying to maximize benefits. For instance, studies have shown that complete AWD can reduce methane emissions by up to 49% and water use by 42% compared to continuous flooding (CF) (Chidthaisong et al., 2018). However, incomplete AWD can lead to increased nitrous oxide emissions and reduced yields, highlighting the need for precise water level control (Patikorn et al., 2018; Sriphirom et al., 2019). Further research could explore automated water management systems that use sensors and IoT technology to maintain optimal water levels, thereby reducing the risk of incomplete AWD and enhancing overall efficiency (Patikorn et al., 2018; Sriphirom et al., 2019).
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