TREATMENT NEEDS FOR IRRIGATED CROPLAND 



Irrigated cropland acreage comprises 1,647,766 acres, of which 

 only 184,496 acres (11.2 percent) are adequately treated. Improved 

 irrigation systems are needed on 1,098,032 acres (66.6 percent) of the 

 irrigated cropland in Montana. This includes such measures as the need 

 to reorganize existing systems for increased efficiency, land leveling, 

 ditch lining, erosion control structures, and drainage for better water 

 control. 



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Proper irrigation water management is needed on 222,332 acres (13.5 

 percent) of the irrigated cropland. Needs in this category cannot apply 

 unless an adequate system of irrigation is provided. Irrigation manage- 

 ment has to do with the timing and application of water to meet plant 

 needs and prevent excess water loss from surface runoff or by deep 

 percolation. 



Cultural management such as proper crop rotation and use of residues 

 to maintain soil tilth with proper air and water relationships are needed 

 on 142,906 acres of irrigated cropland. It does not include the need and 

 use of fertilizers for maximum production. 



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