Water Leaks Management in Precision Agriculture: Toward Sustainable Irrigation Systems

Efficient water management is a fundamental pillar of sustainable agriculture and one of the main goals of precise agriculture. Indeed, due to the worsening of environmental conditions, the reduction of water resources, the increased deser-tification of some areas of the world, and the huge water usage by agriculture activities, water management is critical to promote a more sustainable agriculture and to support the food production, especially in poorest and most populated areas of the world. This paper presents an extended smart irrigation system that enhances a sensor-based automation framework with real-time water flow monitoring to allow a prompt detection of leaks. The new system is based on a centralized monitoring of water use that allows its application even in extensive crops where the widespread distribution of a dense network of sensors over large areas is not possible, making it feasible also for developing countries thanks to its low cost. This proactive approach, that can be integrated with fine-tuned and distributed monitoring systems, ensures optimal water usage, minimizes waste, and contributes to the reduction of operational costs and to the environmental sustainability of agricultural activities. The paper details the implementation, integration, and benefits of this new system, demonstrating its value in sustainable crops management.