The performance of surface and subsurface drainage on heavy clay soils in Yugoslavia.

Abstract

The soils of the Sava River basin (Yugoslavia) have a permeable topsoil of about 0.3 m depth, which overlies an impermeable subsoil. During rainfall, horizontal flow through the topsoil occurs. Appropriate formulae for steady and non-steady flow have been derived, which, together with field observations on field accessibility, have permitted the determination of drainage requirements. In selecting the best drainage system the projected mechanization of agriculture in the area has been considered. Partly for this reason, partly because it provides better drainage during reclamation and in the first year of cropping, and partly for long-term economic reasons (initial costs are higher), subsurface drainage (1.0-1.2 m depth and 15 m drain distance) is preferred to surface drainage. Factors determining peak discharges of field drains are discussed. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)