Co-Authors:
Avnimelech, Y., Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
Dasberg, S., Institute of Soils and Water, ARO–Volcani Center, Bet Dagen, Israel
Harpaz, A., Lake Kinneret Authority, Mobile Post Office Jordan Valley, Israel
Levin, I., Institute of Soils and Water, ARO–Volcani Center, Bet Dagen, Israel
Abstract:
Drainage of the Hula basin led to the exposure of about 2000 ha of organic soils. Corollary to a high subsidence rate, extensive nitrification and leaching of nitrates became evident, endangering the quality of the water in Lake Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). The problem is being solved by a) improving the drainage system and reducing water flow through the basin; b) maintaining a relatively high water table during the summer, thus minimizing the depth of the oxidized layer; c) inducing denitrification through the use of sprinkler irrigation; and d) selecting crops that reduce the accumulation of nitrates in the soil. © 1978 The Williams & Wilkins Co.