G93-1157 Testing Irrigation Water

Authors

DeLynn Hay, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
K.D. Frank, University of Nebraska at LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1993

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1993, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide explains some of the reasons irrigation water should be tested and provides guidelines for collecting and submitting water samples. All irrigation water contains essential plant nutrients. These nutrients are free bonuses from a crop production standpoint. However, some nutrients can be present in amounts that will be toxic or damaging to crop growth. The nutrient content of Nebraska irrigation water can be highly variable from one location to another. The purpose of this guide is to provide guidelines for collecting and submitting irrigation water samples to laboratories for analysis. Reasons for having irrigation water tested are discussed. The University of Nebraska Department of Agronomy Soil and Plant Analytical Laboratory (SPAL) and other laboratories listed in NebGuide G89-907, Water Testing Laboratories (available from your county Extension agent), will analyze your water.