Assessing water resources status for crop planning – A study in coastal paddy ecosystem of Odisha.

Abstract

Assessment of the water resources was made in a coastal paddy ecosystem in Pattamundai block in Kendrapara district of Odisha for productive crop planning. Two-parameter Gamma distribution model at 30 per cent probability level was found best rainfall predicted model for the study area. It is observed that there is vulnerability of occurrence of dry spell to the tune of 17-55 per cent during monsoon period, when modeled through Markov chain probability model. Based on water budget technique on weekly basis, gross excess water availability of 1182 mm is reported occurring mostly during monsoon period. When computed through USDA SCS CN procedure, extreme peak runoff event of 358 mm/day generating from 370 mm/day rainfall amount emphasized for adequate provision of surface drainage network in the study area to drain out the excess runoff water. Provision of supplemental irrigation with rescheduling of canal water supply is envisaged for catering the contingent need of monsoon crop during dry spell and post monsoon crops to bring sustainable production.