ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the research efforts by scientists seeking options under the San Joaquin Valley Drainage Program for the treatment of agricultural drainage wastewater as part of the comprehensive plan for the management of the natural resources of the San Joaquin Valley. The treatment of agricultural drainage is a technology research and development issue. Salinity and its effects on agricultural lands have been recognized problems since the introduction of irrigated farming by man in ancient times. Numerous methods for treatment of municipal and industrial water and wastewater have been screened for possible application to agricultural drainage. The most promising method selected for agricultural drainage investigation is reverse osmosis. High-rate algal ponds can produce up to 300 mg/l of algae on agricultural drainage water. Chemical precipitation of trace elements in wastewater is a well-developed engineering technology, particularly in the treatment of industrial wastes for the removal of heavy metals.
