Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

What is meant by 'allowed depletion'?

1. The total water in the irrigation system

2. The amount of water easily used by plants from soil moisture

3. Water that can be stored in reservoirs

4. Water loss due to evaporation

The correct answer is: The amount of water easily used by plants from soil moisture

Allowed depletion refers to the amount of water that can be extracted from the soil moisture without negatively impacting plant health and growth. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that plants receive enough moisture to thrive while also preventing water overuse. Understanding allowed depletion helps in scheduling irrigation, determining the timing and quantity of water applications based on the needs of specific plants and local environmental conditions. In the context of irrigation, it guides how much soil moisture can be depleted before irrigation is necessary. This is vital for water conservation and efficient irrigation practices, ensuring that water resources are used judiciously while maintaining optimal growing conditions for plants. The other options address different concepts related to water management but do not accurately capture the definition of allowed depletion.