Solute outputs from an irrigation area in Bardenas (Zaragoza)

Abstract

In this work, we analyze the sediment output from an irrigation area located in a semi-arid environment in the Ebro Valley (Bardenas, Zaragoza). Our results show higher solute sediment and load in the waters exiting the irrigation area compared to the inputs waters. Changes in the suspended load are very small, and most of the increase corresponds to soluble salts. During the period of irrigation, solute concentration is lower than during the non-irrigation periods because of higher dilution. However, the total load output during the irrigation periods is greater because both the irrigation and the return flows are higher. Several solute sources have been identified related to different soil uses.