Identification of Smart Irrigation Management Methods and Tools and Their Impact on Optimizing Irrigation Water Consumption

فصلنامه آب و توسعه پایدار

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 15 August 2025

Document Type: Review Article

Author

Iman Hajirad^*

Department of Irrigation and Reclamation Engineering, College of Agriculture and Natural

Abstract

Integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology with traditional irrigation systems is an effective step toward advancing smart irrigation. Due to its critical role in ensuring food security and preserving global water resources, optimal water management has become a major challenge. Traditional irrigation methods in many regions lead to the waste of both water and human resources. Smart irrigation systems are designed to optimize water use and enhance agricultural productivity. In addition to reducing water consumption, these systems improve efficiency and overall agricultural performance. Various techniques have been developed to assess soil moisture and plant water stress, helping to prevent unnecessary irrigation. This study first examines different smart irrigation management methods and the tools utilized in these systems. It then compares these technologies with traditional irrigation methods and evaluates their impact on water conservation. Research findings indicate that smart irrigation systems based on soil moisture sensors, evapotranspiration, and rainfall have achieved water savings of 20% to 41.5%, 20% to 48%, and 7% to 50%, respectively, compared to traditional irrigation. Additionally, sensor-based optical systems have proven to be more effective than conventional experimental and laboratory methods in assessing plant and soil variations. Therefore, implementing smart irrigation systems in agriculture is recommended as an efficient strategy for optimizing water consumption.

Keywords

Evapotranspiration Controllers; Internet of Things (IOT); Soil Moisture Sensors

References