Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The journals Sustainability, Water, Agriculture, Resources and Climate have launched a multi-disciplinary Research Topic on “Advances in Water & Soil Management towards Climate Change Adaptation” and invite researchers, experts and professionals from Universities, Research Institutions, National and International Organizations, Local and Regional Authorities and Enterprises to contribute their research achievements in this field. The main aim of this Topic is to increase the scientific knowledge and understanding of the interactions between water/soil resources management and climate change impacts at local, regional, and global scales, which is a fundamental factor for reaching the goal of a sustainable society.

Over the last few years, we have been observing and monitoring the impacts of climate on the hydrological cycle and soil quality and the increasing pressure on environmental resources. As a result, many regions worldwide suffer from diminishing water resources, water pollution and soil degradation. We can already see how the ongoing climate crisis combined with continuous urbanization and the global population increase affects the water–energy–food nexus and threatens the health of both humans and the ecosystems. In this context, it is of great importance to increase water productivity and water security, identify optimum strategies and technologies to restore water quality, effectively reduce pollution and prevent crop damage under extreme climate conditions and different anthropogenic interventions. Various measures have been proposed, such as climatic water/soil adaptive agronomic practices and geoinformatics tools (advanced modelling, GIS and remote sensing applications), ecological engineering approaches to water and wastewater management and innovative technologies for water production from non-conventional sources, among others.

Thus, in this Topic, studies that focus on new developments in managing and modelling water and soil dynamics, including sustainable solutions for water supply and water/wastewater management, are of great importance. Also, new methods to assess and mitigate hydrological extremes (floods, droughts and soil/water erosion), especially in rural areas, will be primarily considered. Due to the increased water scarcity in arid and even mild climates, the efficiency of wastewater treatment and reuse is gaining attention, and new advanced and nature-based technologies are also becoming increasingly recognized. In this context, the efficient use of brackish and saline waters is becoming a priority as climate change accelerates. Therefore, new findings in wastewater management and the reuse of treated effluents for irrigation or recycling in industrial processes are a pillar of this Topic.

Dr. Nektarios N. Kourgialas
Dr. Ioannis Anastopoulos
Dr. Alexandros I. Stefanakis
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Agriculture agriculture	3.6	6.3	2011	18 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Climate climate	3.2	5.7	2013	21.6 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	7.7	2009	19.3 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Water water	3.0	6.0	2009	19.1 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Resources resources	3.2	7.2	2012	24.6 Days	CHF 1600	Submit

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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17 pages, 1516 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Biomarker and Principal Component Analysis of Agricultural Soil in Oued Rhiou, Algeria: Insights into Organic Matter Dynamics and Management Practices

by Abderrhamen Akkacha, Abdelkader Douaoui, Laurent Grasset, Samer El-Zahab, Christina El Sawda and Khaled Younes

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11074; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411074 - 10 Dec 2025

Viewed by 153

Abstract

Understanding how soil organic matter (SOM) responds to agricultural management at the molecular scale remains a central challenge, particularly in semi-arid Mediterranean systems where long-term monitoring is limited, and soils face marked seasonal fluctuations, salinity constraints, and sustained cultivation pressure. In this study, [...] Read more.

Understanding how soil organic matter (SOM) responds to agricultural management at the molecular scale remains a central challenge, particularly in semi-arid Mediterranean systems where long-term monitoring is limited, and soils face marked seasonal fluctuations, salinity constraints, and sustained cultivation pressure. In this study, lignin and lipid biomarkers were combined to provide complementary views of SOM dynamics in the agricultural soils of Oued Rhiou (Algeria), enabling the simultaneous assessment of plant-derived inputs, microbial processing, and stabilization pathways under cultivation and subsequent rest periods. Depth-dependent patterns showed that lignin indicators responded strongly to shifts between crop residue inputs and root-derived material, while lipid proxies captured changes in microbial activity, biosynthesis, and OM stabilization. Surface soils exhibited enhanced microbial turnover during cultivation, whereas deeper layers were characterized by selective preservation of recalcitrant compounds. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further highlighted these processes by distinguishing vegetation-driven variability from microbial reworking patterns, with subset analyses (lignin-only and lipid-only) providing clearer explanatory power than the combined dataset. Collectively, the findings underscore the importance of integrating rest periods into agricultural cycles to promote SOM stabilization, highlight the complementarity of lignin and lipid proxies for deciphering SOM transformation pathways, and offer molecular-level insights that can guide sustainable soil management strategies aimed at balancing productivity, soil resilience, and long-term carbon sequestration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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16 pages, 527 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Physiological and Productive Characteristics of Castanea sativa Mill. Under Irrigation Regimes in Mediterranean Region

by Ioanna Tsintsirakou and George D. Nanos

Water 2025, 17(23), 3393; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17233393 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 408

Abstract

Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) cultivation holds significant ecological and economic importance in Greece and other Mediterranean regions, where it represents a traditional crop with growing commercial demand in mountainous areas. Irrigation is critical for maintaining orchard productivity, especially under Mediterranean conditions where [...] Read more.

Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) cultivation holds significant ecological and economic importance in Greece and other Mediterranean regions, where it represents a traditional crop with growing commercial demand in mountainous areas. Irrigation is critical for maintaining orchard productivity, especially under Mediterranean conditions where present climate conditions intensify heat stress and late-summer drought. In this study, the effects of different irrigation regimes—full irrigation (FI), deficit irrigation (DI), and no irrigation (NI)—were evaluated over two consecutive years (2017–2018) in an intensively managed chestnut orchard in Greece. FI enhanced fruit yield, nut size, and edible fraction, whereas DI and NI significantly reduced production and fruit set, while increasing nut dry matter and perisperm proportion of chestnuts. Plant physiological parameters, including midday stem water potential and chlorophyll fluorescence, confirmed the strong sensitivity of chestnut trees to water stress. Leaf dry matter, specific leaf weight, and total leaf chlorophyll content demonstrated either steady trends or slight reductions across years and treatments. Year-to-year variation was considerable, driven primarily by different summer temperatures, June to September rainfall, and the number of nuts per tree. Supplemental irrigation during nut development is essential for commercial chestnut production in the Mediterranean increasingly affected by climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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31 pages, 1720 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Valley Retention as an Element of Water Management: The Opinion of Residents of Southeastern Poland

by Krzysztof Kud and Aleksandra Badora

Resources 2025, 14(12), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120181 - 26 Nov 2025

Viewed by 411

Abstract

This study presents the results of an analysis of public perceptions of flood safety and river valley management in southeastern Poland. The aim of the study was to identify sociodemographic and spatial factors influencing preferences for two distinct river valley management models: the [...] Read more.

This study presents the results of an analysis of public perceptions of flood safety and river valley management in southeastern Poland. The aim of the study was to identify sociodemographic and spatial factors influencing preferences for two distinct river valley management models: the traditional, technical model (a strategy to move water away from people, MWAfP), and the ecosystem-based model (leaving space for the river, LSfR). A diagnostic survey was employed using a custom-designed questionnaire completed by 563 respondents residing in southeastern Poland. The research tool enabled the identification of flood risk perceptions and attitudes toward retention and flood control solutions. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and exploratory analysis was conducted to identify clusters of respondents and to test for differences between groups. Correlation analysis between items was performed, and a model of determinants of river valley management strategy selection was calculated using logistic regression. The results enabled the identification of three dominant perception clusters, reflecting diverse approaches to hydrological safety and environmental adaptation. The calculated logistic regression model includes a number of factors, among which significant determinants of the LSfR strategy selection include level of education, belief in the need to slow water runoff from the catchment, and support for the cultivation of permanent meadows in floodplains. The applied methodological approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the social determinants of flood risk perception and supports the development of adaptive water management strategies in flood-prone areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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16 pages, 1989 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Response of Maize Yield and Water Productivity to Different Long-Term Fertilization Strategies in Semi-arid Regions in Northern China

by Zhiping Liu, Ziyuan Guo, Zongyi Wang, Wenyan Xie, Zhenxing Yang, Liyan He, Deli Chen, Xueping Wu and Huaiping Zhou

Agriculture 2025, 15(22), 2396; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15222396 - 20 Nov 2025

Viewed by 388

Abstract

The scarcity and uneven distribution of precipitation present significant challenges for agriculture in arid regions. Fertilization can improve crop yields and water productivity (WP) under these conditions. However, the effects of different long-term fertilization practices on maize yield and WP under varying precipitation [...] Read more.

The scarcity and uneven distribution of precipitation present significant challenges for agriculture in arid regions. Fertilization can improve crop yields and water productivity (WP) under these conditions. However, the effects of different long-term fertilization practices on maize yield and WP under varying precipitation patterns require further research. A 30-year fertilization experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different fertilization treatments on maize yield, WP, soil organic carbon (SOC), and the correlations among these factors. The treatments included no fertilization, application of chemical fertilizers alone, combined application of chemical fertilizers and cattle manure, and application of a high amount of cattle manure alone. Chemical fertilizers, cattle manure, and the combined application of chemical fertilizers and cattle manure significantly increased maize yield by 61.81–86.14%, 121.0%, and 114.5–125.5%, and increased WP by 59.4–84.9%, 119.4%, and 111.9–126.5%, respectively, compared to the unfertilized control. The combined application of chemical fertilizers and cattle manure resulted in optimal maize yield and WP, while also substantially reducing the coefficient of variation in maize yield (by 19.9–25.9% compared to the control) under interannual precipitation fluctuations. Compared with the no fertilization treatment, the average increase in maize yield peaks in very wet years, while WP reaches its highest level in relatively dry years. Maize yield was significantly positively related to SOC, WP, and water consumption during growth (p < 0.01). SOC was also significantly positively correlated with WP (p < 0.01). For every unit increase in SOC, the WP increased by 0.3955 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹. In summary, the integrated application of organic and inorganic fertilizers is a proven strategy to enhance crop productivity and resilience, while concurrently improving WP and SOC. This synergistic approach represents a cornerstone for climate-resilient and sustainable dryland agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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29 pages, 1076 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Optimising Long-Range Agricultural Land Use Under Climate Uncertainty

by Karin Schiller, James Montgomery, Marcus Randall, Andrew Lewis and Muhammad Shahinur Alam

Agriculture 2025, 15(20), 2133; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15202133 - 14 Oct 2025

Viewed by 795

Abstract

To address the difficult problem of maintaining profitable and resilient agriculture under a changed climate, long-term prediction and planning are needed. One approach capable of helping with this endeavour is mathematical modelling and optimisation. Using a temporal framework, this paper outlines a spatio-temporal [...] Read more.

To address the difficult problem of maintaining profitable and resilient agriculture under a changed climate, long-term prediction and planning are needed. One approach capable of helping with this endeavour is mathematical modelling and optimisation. Using a temporal framework, this paper outlines a spatio-temporal agricultural land use sequencer (STALS) model, where feasible climate-aware annual crop land uses are determined for a real-world case study region, the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area in Australia. The results of this approach identified desirable transitions in land use and changes in the production system. The analysis revealed two differing possibilities of land use: one with a concentrated crop mix, the other more diverse. However, both suggest higher-value crops, such as horticultural species, will maximise regional economic benefit with comparable minimal water usage under climate change. To maintain regional agricultural economic benefit under reduced water availability and increased temperature, a transformation of land use is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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34 pages, 33165 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Agricultural Drought Assessment and Mapping Its Vulnerability in a Semi-Arid Region Exhibiting Aridification Trends

by Fatemeh Ghasempour, Sevim Seda Yamaç, Aliihsan Sekertekin, Muzaffer Can Iban and Senol Hakan Kutoglu

Agriculture 2025, 15(19), 2060; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15192060 - 30 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1346

Abstract

Agricultural drought, increasingly intensified by climate change, poses a significant threat to food security and water resources in semi-arid regions, including Türkiye’s Konya Closed Basin. This study evaluates six satellite-derived indices—Vegetation Health Index (VHI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Temperature Condition Index (TCI), Precipitation [...] Read more.

Agricultural drought, increasingly intensified by climate change, poses a significant threat to food security and water resources in semi-arid regions, including Türkiye’s Konya Closed Basin. This study evaluates six satellite-derived indices—Vegetation Health Index (VHI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Temperature Condition Index (TCI), Precipitation Condition Index (PCI), Evapotranspiration Condition Index (ETCI), and Soil Moisture Condition Index (SMCI)—to monitor agricultural drought (2001–2024) and proposes a drought vulnerability map using a novel Drought Vulnerability Index (DVI). Integrating Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Climate Hazards Center InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS), and Land Data Assimilation System (FLDAS) datasets, the DVI combines these indices with weighted contributions (VHI: 0.27, ETCI: 0.25, SMCI: 0.22, PCI: 0.26) to spatially classify vulnerability. The results highlight severe drought episodes in 2001, 2007, 2008, 2014, 2016, and 2020, with extreme vulnerability concentrated in the southern and central basin, driven by prolonged vegetation stress and soil moisture deficits. The DVI reveals that 38% of the agricultural area in the basin is classified as moderately vulnerable, while 29% is critically vulnerable—comprising 22% under high vulnerability and 7% under extreme vulnerability. The proposed drought vulnerability map offers an actionable framework to support targeted water management strategies and policy interventions in drought-prone agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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17 pages, 2324 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Laboratory Experiments Unravel the Mechanisms of Snowmelt Erosion in Northeast China’s Black Soil: The Key Role of Supersaturation-Driven and Layered Moisture Migration

by Songshi Zhao, Haoming Fan and Maosen Lin

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8737; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198737 - 29 Sep 2025

Viewed by 561

Abstract

Snowmelt runoff is a major soil erosion trigger in mid-to-high latitude and altitude regions. Through runoff plot observations and simulations in the northeastern black soil region, this study reveals the key regulatory mechanism of water migration on snowmelt erosion. Results demonstrate that the [...] Read more.

Snowmelt runoff is a major soil erosion trigger in mid-to-high latitude and altitude regions. Through runoff plot observations and simulations in the northeastern black soil region, this study reveals the key regulatory mechanism of water migration on snowmelt erosion. Results demonstrate that the interaction between thawed upper and frozen lower soil layers creates a significant hydraulic gradient during snowmelt. Impermeability of the frozen layer causes meltwater accumulation and moisture supersaturation (>47%, exceeding field capacity) in the upper layer. Freeze–thaw action accelerates vertical moisture migration and redistributes shallow moisture by increasing porosity. This process causes soils with high initial moisture to reach supersaturation faster, triggering earlier and more frequent erosion. Gray correlation analysis shows that soil moisture migration’s contribution to erosion intensity is layered: migration in shallow soil (0–10 cm) correlates most strongly with surface erosion; migration in deep soil (10–15 cm) exhibits a U-shaped contribution due to freeze–thaw front boundary effects. A regression model identified key controlling factors (VIP > 1.0): changes in bulk density, porosity, and permeability of deep soil significantly regulate erosion intensity. The nonlinear relationship between erosion intensity and moisture content (R² = 0.82) confirms supersaturation dominance. Physical structure and mechanical properties of unfrozen layers regulate erosion dynamics via moisture migration. These findings clarify the key mechanism of moisture migration governing snowmelt erosion, providing a critical scientific foundation for developing targeted soil conservation strategies and advancing regional prediction models essential for sustainable land management under changing winter climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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21 pages, 1689 KB  

Open AccessReview

Reconsidering the Soil–Water–Crops–Energy (SWCE) Nexus Under Climate Complexity—A Critical Review

by Nektarios N. Kourgialas

Agriculture 2025, 15(17), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15171891 - 5 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 879

Abstract

Nowadays, sustainable agriculture is emerging as a critical framework within which food production, environmental protection and resilience to climate change must go hand in hand. At the core of this framework are the linkages between soil, water, crops, and energy (SWCE). As pressures [...] Read more.

Nowadays, sustainable agriculture is emerging as a critical framework within which food production, environmental protection and resilience to climate change must go hand in hand. At the core of this framework are the linkages between soil, water, crops, and energy (SWCE). As pressures from climate change, population growth and agricultural land degradation intensify, environmental management strategies are called upon to become more interdisciplinary, targeted and cost-effective. This review article synthesizes recent scientific findings shaping the contemporary understanding of hydro-environmental agriculture and critically examines the conceptual foundation of the SWCE nexus under climate complexity. In addition to reviewing methodological approaches, it highlights both successful global practice examples—such as integrated solar-powered irrigation and conservation-oriented soil–water management systems—and failed or problematic implementations where institutional fragmentation, unsustainable groundwater use, or energy trade-offs undermined outcomes. By analyzing these contrasting experiences, the article identifies key limiting factors and enabling conditions for scaling up nexus-based solutions. Finally, it provides recommendations for future research, integration, and policy-making, emphasizing the importance of adaptive governance, participatory approaches, and cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance the sustainability and resilience of agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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16 pages, 2656 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Plastic Film Mulching Regulates Soil Respiration and Temperature Sensitivity in Maize Farming Across Diverse Hydrothermal Conditions

by Jianjun Yang, Rui Wang, Xiaopeng Shi, Yufei Li, Rafi Ullah and Feng Zhang

Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1667; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151667 - 1 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 809

Abstract

Soil respiration (Rt), consisting of heterotrophic (Rh) and autotrophic respiration (Ra), plays a vital role in terrestrial carbon cycling and is sensitive to soil temperature and moisture. In dryland agriculture, plastic film mulching (PM) is widely used to regulate soil hydrothermal conditions, but [...] Read more.

Soil respiration (Rt), consisting of heterotrophic (Rh) and autotrophic respiration (Ra), plays a vital role in terrestrial carbon cycling and is sensitive to soil temperature and moisture. In dryland agriculture, plastic film mulching (PM) is widely used to regulate soil hydrothermal conditions, but its effects on Rt components and their temperature sensitivity (Q₁₀) across regions remain unclear. A two-year field study was conducted at two rain-fed maize sites: Anding (warmer, semi-arid) and Yuzhong (colder, drier). PM significantly increased Rt, Rh, and Ra, especially Ra, due to enhanced root biomass and improved microclimate. Yield increased by 33.6–165%. Peak respiration occurred earlier in Anding, aligned with maize growth and soil temperature. PM reduced Q₁₀ of Rt and Ra in Anding, but only Ra in Yuzhong. Rh Q₁₀ remained stable, indicating microbial respiration was less sensitive to temperature changes. Structural equation modeling revealed that Rt and Ra were mainly driven by soil temperature and root biomass, while Rh was more influenced by microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Despite increased CO₂ emissions, PM improved carbon emission efficiency (CEE), particularly in Yuzhong (+67%). The application of PM is recommended to enhance yield while optimizing carbon efficiency in dryland farming systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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15 pages, 4363 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Soft Rock Material Addition on Surface Charge Properties and Internal Force of Aeolian Sandy Soil Particles in the Maowusu Desert

by Zhe Liu, Yang Zhang, Yingying Sun, Yuliang Zhang, Na Wang, Feinan Hu, Yuhu Luo and Tingting Meng

Resources 2025, 14(7), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070116 - 21 Jul 2025

Viewed by 964

Abstract

The Maowusu Desert is still suffering from serious ecological and environmental security issues such as wind erosion and desertification, influenced by both natural and human factors. The amendment of aeolian sandy soil with soft rock material presents an effective erosion control strategy, leveraging [...] Read more.

The Maowusu Desert is still suffering from serious ecological and environmental security issues such as wind erosion and desertification, influenced by both natural and human factors. The amendment of aeolian sandy soil with soft rock material presents an effective erosion control strategy, leveraging the complementary structural and compositional properties of both materials to enhance soil stability and rehabilitate degraded environments. However, there are few studies that investigate the effect of soil surface electrochemical properties and particle interaction forces on the structural stability of compound soils with soft rock and sandy soil. This decade-long field study quantified the electrochemical properties and interparticle forces and their synergistic effects on structural stability across five soft rock-to-aeolian sandy soil blend volume ratios (0:1, 1:5, 1:2, 1:1, 1:0) within the 0–30 cm soil profile. The results showed that the soil organic matter (SOM), specific surface area (SSA), and cation exchange capacity (CEC) significantly increased with the incorporation of soft rock material. For five different proportions, with the addition of soft rock and the extension of planting years, the content of SOM increased from 5.65 g·kg⁻¹ to 11.36 g·kg⁻¹, the CEC varied from 4.68 cmol kg⁻¹ to 17.91 cmol kg⁻¹, while the σ₀ importantly decreased from 1.8 to 0.47 c m⁻² (p < 0.05). For the interaction force at 2.4 nm between soil particles, the absolute value of van der Waals attractive force increased from 0.10 atm to 0.38 atm, and the net force decreased from 0.09 atm to −0.30 atm after the incorporation ratios of soft rock from 0:1 to 1:1. There was a significant negative correlation between the resultant net force between the particles of compound soil and the SSA and CEC. These results indicate that the addition of soft rock material positively improves the surface electrochemical properties and internal forces between aeolian sandy soil particles, further enhancing its structural stability. This study establishes a foundational theoretical framework for advancing our mechanistic understanding of aeolian sand stabilization and ecosystem rehabilitation in the Mu Us Desert. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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15 pages, 4298 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Response of Different Perennial Ryegrass Varieties to Water Stress

by Mladen Prijović, Dejan Sokolović, Jelena Dragišić Maksimović, Vuk Maksimović, Dragica Milosavljević, Snežana Babić, Marija Stepić and Aneta Sabovljević

Agriculture 2025, 15(9), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15090917 - 22 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1332

Abstract

Perennial ryegrass represents the most important forage grass, yet its generally low drought tolerance leads to reduced yields under water scarcity. Nevertheless, large intra- and inter-population variability could be a pool for selecting new drought-tolerant varieties. In this study we evaluated three populations [...] Read more.

Perennial ryegrass represents the most important forage grass, yet its generally low drought tolerance leads to reduced yields under water scarcity. Nevertheless, large intra- and inter-population variability could be a pool for selecting new drought-tolerant varieties. In this study we evaluated three populations (K-11, Exp population and Shandon) under semi-controlled conditions across four watering levels (100%, 70%, 50% and 30% of field water capacity), focusing on yield and key morphological and biochemical traits. Dry matter yield and root dry mass decreased in all populations under limited watering conditions. The highest biomass production in such conditions was observed in the Exp population, likely due to better root performance in the deeper soil layer. On the other hand, oxidative stress markers (MDA and H₂O₂) and water-soluble sugars, which indicated the best physiological status in cultivar K-11 under severe drought, did not lead to the highest DMY. These results show the importance of including multiple physiological and biochemical traits in breeding processes, with the aim of developing perennial ryegrass cultivars capable of withstanding prolonged and intense summer drought as a consequence of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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41 pages, 11437 KB  

Open AccessArticle

A Decision Support System for Managed Aquifer Recharge Through Non-Conventional Waters in the South of the Mediterranean

by Rym Hadded, Mongi Ben Zaied, Fatma Elkmali, Giulio Castelli, Fethi Abdelli, Zouhaier Khabir, Khaled Ben Zaied, Elena Bresci and Mohamed Ouessar

Resources 2025, 14(4), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14040063 - 11 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3190

Abstract

Water management in arid regions faces significant challenges due to limited water resources and increasing competition among sectors. Climate change (CC) exacerbates these issues, highlighting the need for advanced modeling tools to predict trends and guide sustainable resource management. This study employs Water [...] Read more.

Water management in arid regions faces significant challenges due to limited water resources and increasing competition among sectors. Climate change (CC) exacerbates these issues, highlighting the need for advanced modeling tools to predict trends and guide sustainable resource management. This study employs Water Evaluation And Planning (WEAP) software to develop a Decision Support System (DSS) to evaluate the impact of climate change and water management strategies on the Triassic aquifer of “Sahel El Ababsa” in southeast Tunisia up to 2050. The reference scenario (SC0) assumes constant climatic and socio-economic conditions as of 2020. CC is modeled under RCP4.5 (SC1.0) and RCP8.5 (SC2.0). Additional scenarios include Seawater Desalination Plants (SDPs) (SC3.0 and SC4.0), water harvesting techniques (SC5.0) to highlight their impact on the recharge, and irrigation management strategies (SC6.0). All these scenarios were further developed under the “SC1.0” scenario to assess the impact of moderate CC. The initial aquifer storage is estimated at 100 Million cubic meters (Mm³). Under (SC0), storage would decrease by 76%, leaving only 23.7 Mm³ by 2050. CC scenarios (SC1.0, SC2.0) predict about a 98% reduction. The implementation of the Zarat SDP (SC3.0) would lead to a 45% improvement compared to reference conditions by the end of the simulation period, while its extension (SC4.0) would result in a 69.5% improvement. Under moderate CC, these improvements would be reduced, with SC3.1 showing a 59% decline and SC4.1 a 35% decline compared to the reference scenario. The WHT scenario (SC5.0) demonstrated a 104% improvement in Triassic aquifer storage by 2050 compared to the reference scenario. However, under CC (SC5.1), this improvement would be partially offset, leading to a 29% decline in aquifer storage. The scenario maintaining stable agricultural demand from the Triassic aquifer under CC (SC6.1) projected an 83% decrease in storage. Conversely, the total “Irrigation Cancellation” scenario (SC7.1) under CC showed a significant increase in aquifer storage, reaching 59.3 Mm³ by 2050—an improvement of 250% compared to the reference scenario. The study underscores the critical need for alternative water sources for irrigation and integrated management strategies to mitigate future water scarcity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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23 pages, 5210 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Water and Fertilizer Management Strategy for Greenhouse Tomato Based on Morphological Characteristics

by Zhiyu Zuo, Tianyuan Lü, Jicheng Sun, Haitao Peng, Deyong Yang, Jinxiu Song, Guoxin Ma and Hanping Mao

Agriculture 2025, 15(3), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15030304 - 30 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1844

Abstract

A dynamic management strategy for water and fertilizer application based on morphological characteristics was developed to enhance water use efficiency (WUE) and fruit yield in greenhouse-cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Multivariate regression analysis was employed to determine the baseline water and fertilizer [...] Read more.

A dynamic management strategy for water and fertilizer application based on morphological characteristics was developed to enhance water use efficiency (WUE) and fruit yield in greenhouse-cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Multivariate regression analysis was employed to determine the baseline water and fertilizer requirements and to evaluate the effects of varying irrigation and fertilization regimes on fruit yield and WUE. A coupled irrigation–fertilization experiment was conducted, and regression models were established to describe the changes in stem diameter and plant height under these regimes. These models were validated experimentally. The results showed that irrigation significantly influenced both tomato fruit yield and WUE, while fertilization significantly impacted yield, but not WUE. No interactive effects between irrigation and fertilization were observed for either parameter. Stem diameter and plant height were positively correlated with the irrigation and fertilization levels. The proposed dynamic management strategy improved fruit yield by 6.9% and 14.7% under the basic and well-irrigated/fertilized conditions, respectively, compared to that of the fixed regime. Furthermore, model implementation increased WUE by 6.93% and 43.17% and improved the economic benefits by 4.9% and 20.6% under the respective conditions. This provides a practical and effective tool for optimizing water and fertilizer management in greenhouse tomato production, contributing to resource-efficient and high-yield farming practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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13 pages, 1983 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of the Water Footprint of Wood Construction in Chile Using a Streamlined Input–Output-Based Model

by Ximena Vallejos, Steven Hidalgo, Belén González and Patricio Neumann

Sustainability 2025, 17(3), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17031061 - 28 Jan 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2019

Abstract

Wood construction is often proposed to reduce the construction sector’s greenhouse gas emissions due to its carbon sequestration potential. However, forestry significantly impacts natural water flows and increases water use—a critical concern in Chile. This study evaluates the water footprint of wood construction [...] Read more.

Wood construction is often proposed to reduce the construction sector’s greenhouse gas emissions due to its carbon sequestration potential. However, forestry significantly impacts natural water flows and increases water use—a critical concern in Chile. This study evaluates the water footprint of wood construction in Chile, considering direct and indirect water consumption under various scenarios. An input–output model was developed to quantify economic interactions, incorporating a new wood-construction sector based on data from a model house. An environmental extension matrix was also created to account for blue water (groundwater and surface water extraction) and green water (rainwater absorbed from soil) consumption. Future scenarios for the residential building sector were defined based on different growth rates for wood-based construction and current construction methods, and the model was resolved using the scenarios as demand vectors. The results indicate that wood construction’s water footprint is 2.38–2.47 times higher than conventional construction methods, with over 64% linked to forestry’s green water demand. By 2050, increased wood construction could raise the sector’s total water footprint by 30.0–31.8%. These findings underscore the need to assess water consumption as a critical sustainability parameter for wood construction and highlight the value of tools like the water footprint to guide decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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26 pages, 7990 KB  

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Method to Forecast Nitrate Concentration Levels in Irrigation Areas for Sustainable Agriculture

by Halil Karahan and Müge Erkan Can

Agriculture 2025, 15(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15020161 - 13 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2155

Abstract

This study developed an ANN-based model to predict nitrate concentrations in drainage waters using parameters that are simpler and more cost-effective to measure within the Lower Seyhan Basin, a key agricultural region in Turkey. For this purpose, daily water samples were collected from [...] Read more.

This study developed an ANN-based model to predict nitrate concentrations in drainage waters using parameters that are simpler and more cost-effective to measure within the Lower Seyhan Basin, a key agricultural region in Turkey. For this purpose, daily water samples were collected from a drainage measurement station during the 2022 and 2023 water years, and nitrate concentrations were determined in the laboratory. In addition to nitrate concentrations, other parameters, such as flow rate, EC, pH, and precipitation, were also measured simultaneously. The complex relationship between measured nitrate values and other parameters, which are easier and less costly to measure, was used in two different scenarios during the training phase of the ANN-Nitrate model. After the model was trained, nitrate values were estimated for the two scenarios using only the other parameters. In Scenario I, random values from the dataset were predicted, while in Scenario II, predictions were made as a time series, and model results were compared with measured values for both scenarios. The proposed model reliably fills dataset gaps (Scenario I) and predicts nitrate values in time series (Scenario II). The proposed model, although based on an artificial neural network (ANN), also has the potential to be adapted for methods used in machine learning and artificial intelligence, such as Support Vector Machines, Decision Trees, Random Forests, and Ensemble Learning Methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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