Forage Production Technology for Arable Lands - Indian Grassland ...

ManagementLeveling of land in many wetlands removes water by run off.Application of controlled irrigation water to avoid water-loggingStopping the seepage in the canals and irrigation channels responsible forwaterlogging in canal commandsConstruction of bunds may check water flow from the rivers/oceans to thecultivable lands.Plantation of tree having high transpiration rate are effective in lowering thegroundwater table.Select the suitable crops and their proper varieties depending upon the nature of thewaterlogging (Table-22). In the case of riverine flood waterlogging, flood may cometo the nearby land from the river having excess floodwater in the rainy season. In suchconditions select the crops which can tolerate the occasional waterlogging. Longterm trend analysis for occurrence of such event will be handy in decision makingabout selection of crop and investment in cropping.In coastal areas, ocean water spreads in the nearby land cause waterlogging. Undersuch situations, planting of salt tolerant grasses in the field and bunds of rice fieldshould be done.Output and economics: These areas are almost non/under productive and risk of cropfailure is very high. Adoption of suitable reclamation strategy along with planting oftolerant crops like para grass, almon grass will ensure regular availability of green fodderand reduce the risk of crop failure under such agroecosystem.Specific benefits : Ensures better use of the natural resource, regular availability ofgreen fodder, drainage of excess water helps in prevention of secondary salinization anddegradation of the soil, improved livelihood of the farm families due to increasedincome.Constraints in adoption: Installation of drainage system is very costly intervention,further, choice of crop is also very limited.Scope for commercialisation: These lands are not suitable for the cultivation ofcommercial crops. Forage crops like para grass, almon grass and coix are tolerant towater logging of varying degree and offers profitable options for adoption in suchconditions. This will be helpful in increasing the productivity of the wetland in thecountry.42 Forage Production Technology for Arable Lands