Drainage design for improved profits and water quality

Subsurface drainage systems are an important component of agricultural production systems in many areas of Iowa. However, these drainage systems have been shown to deliver nitrate-N to downstream waterbodies. So, while subsurface drainage is important for crop production we also need to consider the design of these systems to minimize nitrate-N loss. Use of drainage water management in the design and operation of subsurface drainage systems is one potential method to reduce nitrate-N loss