Question

The selection of a particular method of water spreading depends upon factors like:
(A) topography
(B) slope
(C) crop
(D) soil type
(E) land use and land cover
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (E) only.
• C. (A), (B), and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Water spreading methods include flooding, wild flooding, contour ditches, and spreading basins.
Basins are preferred on flat, highly permeable soils, while contour ditches are used on gentle, sloping terrain.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Water spreading is a soil and water conservation technique where excess runoff or floodwater is diverted from its natural channels and spread over adjacent flatter lands.
This practice helps recharge groundwater aquifers, reduce downstream flood peaks, and irrigate pastures.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The feasibility and efficiency of a water spreading system depend on several physical and geological characteristics:
Topography (A) determines the overall layout of the spreading system.
Irregular or highly rolling terrain makes it difficult to spread water uniformly, making topography a primary planning factor.
The slope (B) of the land is critical because water must flow slowly to maximize infiltration and prevent soil erosion.
Water spreading is typically restricted to gentle slopes (usually less than \( 1\% \) to \( 2\% \)).
The soil type (D) determines the water intake or infiltration rate.
Water spreading is most effective on highly permeable soils (like sandy loams or gravelly soils) that can rapidly absorb large volumes of water.
Heavy clay soils with low permeability are not suitable for water spreading.
While crop (C) and land cover (E) are secondary considerations for land management, the initial engineering selection of a water spreading method is strictly governed by the physical parameters of topography, slope, and soil type.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The selection of a water spreading method depends on topography, slope, and soil type.