Development of an integrated water quality index for irrigation : analyzing sodium absorption, permeability, and salinity characteristics

english

2026

volume 122, issue 2

irrigation water quality   Kelly ratio (KR)   magnesium hazard (MH)   permeability index (PI)   sodium adsorption ratio (SAR)   sustainable agriculture

Univerza v Ljubljani, Biotehniška fakulteta
(Obvezni izvod spletne publikacije)

This study evaluated irrigation water quality from 57 wells in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq using several indices to determine agricultural suitability and potential soil impacts. Results showed that Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) values were within the normal range (?3) for all wells, indicating safe irrigation use with minimal salinity or sodicity hazards for most soil types. Permeability index (PI) and Kelly ratio (KR) values indicated excellent water quality, suggesting no significant effects on soil permeability, structure, or crop productivity. Residual sodium carbonate (RSC) values were low or within acceptable limits, confirming negligible influence on soil alkalinity and supporting safe long-term irrigation use. Soluble sodium percentage (SSP) values showed that most wells ranged from excellent to good quality, while only a small number were classified as fair, indicating limited sodium-related soil degradation risk. Magnesium hazard (MH) analysis showed that 35 wells fell within a moderate range, suggesting possible long-term effects on soil structure and nutrient balance, especially for sensitive crops, and a few wells were unsuitable because of high MH values. Overall, irrigation water quality in Sulaymaniyah was generally acceptable, but continuous monitoring is recommended to protect soil health and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity.

25.09.2026