Agriculture has been around for thousands of years, but it still takes place in an extremely inefficient way.

We decided to tackle one particular aspect of agriculture to improve

through the application of biomimicry.

The problem identified is inefficient water use in alfalfa farming in California deserts.

Alfalfa is grown in large, open fields and watered using sprinklers,

causing quick evaporation, which wastes water from the Colorado River –

– the largest source of water for alfalfa farms and nearby cities.

Because this threatens citizens and wildlife dependent on the river,

this problem is relevant to the 6th UN SDG, “Clean Water and Sanitation” –

specifically, we focused on target 6.4 for increased water efficiency.

The solution aims to improve the irrigation system by minimizing evaporation and recycling water

while maintaining the optimal condition for alfalfa growth.

Our biological model is cacti.

“Napiform roots” are a type of cactus root with a round shape.

While typical roots can only reach down into the soil and absorb water and nutrients,

these roots can also store the water absorbed underground until necessary.

Another notable feature was the valve regulation of some seeds of desert plants.

Its hilar valve, or where the seed was attached to its parent plant,

has the ability to regulate its permeability based on its moisture level.

When the moisture level is high, the seed closes its valve and stops absorbing water until it drops again.

With these features combined, we propose a new solution to alfalfa farming.

The mechanism behind this is simple.

A water tank storing transported water will be connected to a series of underground pipes,

each lining one row of alfalfa to directly supply water to the soil.

The pipes will then return to the water tank after reaching the end of the row,

allowing excess water to be recycled.

Each pipe will have 2 valves to regulate the flow of water based on the moisture level of the soil.

It is difficult to prevent evaporation perfectly because alfalfa requires specific growing conditions in order to thrive.

However, the underground watering and circulation system will significantly improve water efficiency of alfalfa farms

and prevent further damage to the Colorado River and to the citizens who depend on it for survival.