ASSESSMENT OF SOIL MOISTURE DEFICIT AND ADAPTATION OF IRRIGATION TECHNOLOGIES TO THE INCREASING FREQUENCY OF DROUGHTS

Abstract

The increasing frequency and intensity of drought events in Romania, particularly in the regions of Dobrogea, Muntenia, and southern Moldavia, has led to a significant rise in soil moisture deficit and reduced water availability for agriculture. This study evaluates recent trends in soil moisture deficit and identifies appropriate irrigation technologies capable of maintaining crop productivity under enhanced water stress conditions. Multiannual climatic data (temperature, precipitation, and potential evapotranspiration) were analyzed to estimate crop water requirements and optimal irrigation intervals for major field crops using established methodologies, including the Penman–Monteith equation, FAO 56 guidelines, and the soil water balance method. Results show a 10–20% increase in potential evapotranspiration and reduced precipitation during key growth stages, leading to seasonal deficits of 100–250 mm. Maize and sunflower were the most affected, with yield reductions of 30–60% in the absence of irrigation. Drip irrigation proved the most efficient technology, enabling water savings of up to 35–40% compared with sprinkler irrigation while maintaining optimal root-zone moisture. The study emphasizes the need for precision irrigation, soil moisture monitoring systems, and regulated deficit irrigation to improve water use efficiency. Adapting irrigation strategies and modernizing infrastructure are essential to enhancing the resilience of agroecosystems under increasingly severe drought conditions.