Reuse of wastewater for irrigation of coriander in Morocco: Evaluation of effects on crop growth parameters

Abstract

AbstractCurrently, the convergence of climate change, population growth, and deteriorating water quality has triggered a scarcity of freshwater resources, presenting substantial hurdles for agricultural endeavors. Consequently, repurposing treated wastewater for agricultural use is gaining prominence. This strategy offers a noteworthy advantage by furnishing an alternative water source, distinct from conventional freshwater, for agricultural irrigation. The considered irrigation water categories encompass treated wastewater, sewage treated with supplementary fertilization, treated water of a specific quality, and treated water quality fortified with fertilizer. An assessment of the treated wastewater extracted from the Imzouren‐Bni Bouayach treatment facility was undertaken, encompassing scrutiny of its physical, chemical, and bacteriological attributes. This analysis yielded measurements for a range of parameters, including pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, suspended matter, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total phosphorus, nitrate, nitrite, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and fecal streptococci. These measurements align with acceptable thresholds for direct discharge and are following Morocco's established water quality standards tailored for irrigation. In light of the soil analysis, the soil is classified as alkaline, with a pH of 8.2, and displays low salinity, evidenced by an electrical conductivity of 2.42 mS/cm. Furthermore, the soil exhibits deficiencies in organic matter and essential nutrients, with carbon content measuring 0.84%, organic matter at 1.45%, nitrogen at 0.07%, phosphorus at 10.6 mg/L, and potassium at 56.5 mg/L. The utilization of treated wastewater for irrigation purposes bestows the crop with a dependable water supply, ensuring stability in its growth.