One of the major issues in Andalusia is the loss of productive soil due to water runoff during heavy rainfall. Excessive tillage and slope exacerbate this problem. Another issue is drought and how to harness the water that falls in a short period of time so that it is not lost and can be absorbed by the trees.
A team of researchers from the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry at the University of Granada (UGR) has developed the Hydroinfiltrator, a true water sink placed beneath a tree that could provide a solution to these problems. It is a simple and easy-to-install invention patented by the UGR, allowing all water to reach the tree’s roots directly, without being lost on the surface due to evaporation or the terrain’s geography. We may be facing one of those great inventions that can transform the agricultural sector.
The device is buried in the surrounding soil of the crop and significantly facilitates the deep infiltration of rainwater, irrigation, or runoff, also favoring the incorporation of nutrients and increasing the production and quality of agricultural products. It consists of a mesh envelope filled with biochar (charcoal).
Through this procedure, it is possible to increase the yield of olive trees and thus increase the average oil production in areas with low rainfall.
The Tesis team accompanies the work team group of investigators/researchers in the installation of these Hydroinfiltrators, witnessing firsthand their advantages.
Source: Canalsur