The size of an irrigation pond directly affects the effectiveness of the irrigation system and, consequently, crop production. First and foremost, the crop's water requirements are paramount. Different crops have varying water needs, and these requirements must be carefully assessed to ensure that the pond can adequately supply water to meet the demands of the agricultural operation.
Another critical factor is the seasonal variation in water demand. The ideal pond size should account for fluctuations in water demand throughout the year. During dry seasons or periods of high crop water demand, the pond must be capable of supplying sufficient water to sustain healthy crop growth. Therefore, the pond size must be designed to accommodate these seasonal shifts in water demand.
