Agri Kultuur January / Januarie 2016 | Page 16

Figure 3: Optimum usage of an irrigation system is of great importance. In closure the importance of water is as follows:  Water is the key to food security:  without water, crops simply cannot grow.  Water is not just for primary production  it plays a vital role at all stages along the agricultural value chain  Water for agriculture connects us all together  In times of scarcity we all have a responsibility to use water wisely, efficiently and productively. Water is Life – Respect It. Conserve It. Enjoy It! We need to be more ‘water smart’.