EFFICIENCY AND MAINTENANCE OF REGULATED DRAINAGE

Abstract

This study examines the efficiency of regulated drainage by assessing design solutions and the influence of soil physical properties on the water regime. The study consists of two interrelated investigations.

In the first study, an analysis of the technical, spatial, and economic indicators of 24 regulated drainage projects was carried out. The relationships among the key drainage system parameters—collector length, drainage network density, terrain slope, system area, soil type, and the area of the regulated drainage system—were evaluated, and the design solutions were compared with recommended and threshold values. The results show that the efficiency of regulated drainage largely depends on the technical condition of existing drainage systems and their suitability for regulation measures. It was found that in many cases regulated drainage is implemented during the reconstruction of old systems; therefore, its potential is only partially utilized. The results also indicate that the most favorable conditions for the application of regulated drainage occur in areas where the surface slope does not exceed 1 %, whereas in areas with steeper slopes the effect of regulation on the system is limited. The analysis also revealed a systematic discrepancy between the designed and the actually regulated drainage system area, which in many cases accounts for only about two-thirds of the total system area.

The second study, based on laboratory experimental results, evaluated the effect of biochar incorporation into soil on its absorption properties and moisture dynamics. The results showed that biochar increases soil porosity, reduces the rate of water evaporation, and ensures a more stable moisture regime in the root zone. The findings indicate that biochar incorporation may contribute to more effective regulated drainage operation and more sustainable water regime management, particularly under conditions of moisture deficit.