Farms: Effects of Agricultural Water Management Systems on Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Eastern Canada

The research team studied the effects of different agricultural water management strategies (sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, and water table management) on greenhouse gas emissions –nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and methane– in various crop production systems in Eastern Canada. Four years of extensive scientific and economic data were collected from farms in Quebec, Ontario, and Nova Scotia and has led to new analytical models and assessment tools for greenhouse gas mitigation strategies under intensive agricultural production systems. A significant database on greenhouse gas emissions has been created, which can help drive policy decision making, and to inform the setting of realistic targets in climate change policy. Research results will provide agricultural producers with verified water management strategies that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance economic competitiveness of the Canadian agri-food sector. The project had a very strong outreach and training component. Research results have been shared with agricultural producer groups and researchers. Canadian capacity in greenhouse gas mitigation has been strengthened by the training of several new scientists in the study regions.