Sugarcane is a crop of great economic importance in Brazil, being widely used in the production of sugar, ethanol and bioenergy. The implementation of modern and efficient sugarcane production systems, which include irrigation practices, is fundamental to ensure high productivity and product quality, as well as to promote the sustainability of the sugar-energy sector.

Bevap plant, located in the Northwest of Minas Gerais, is a company that has invested in advanced technologies for sugarcane production, including irrigation systems, in order to maximize its productivity and efficiency. However, as with any agricultural undertaking, the implementation of these systems also faces specific challenges.

One of the main advantages of implementing sugarcane irrigation systems is the increase in productivity. Proper irrigation allows you to provide water in the right amount and at the right time for the plants, improving their development and increasing their longevity. Today we have sugarcane plantations with 15 cuts with productivity above 108 tons per hectare.

Correctly managed irrigation can contribute to the uniformity of the cane field and the sucrose content of the sugarcane, resulting in a better quality raw material for the sugar-energy industry. In addition, irrigation can mitigate losses due to production failure, especially in periods of drought, minimizing economic losses.

The adoption of irrigation systems can also promote the optimization of the use of agricultural inputs. With the localized application of water and nutrients, it is possible to reduce the amount of inputs, thus reducing production costs and the environmental impact associated with the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides.

At Bevap plant, irrigation has been integrated with sustainable management practices, resulting in more efficient and ecologically correct production. Another advantage is greater flexibility in crop planning. With irrigation, it is possible to minimize the effects of climatic variations, such as irregular rainfall, enabling planting and harvesting at more appropriate times. However, there are also some points of attention that need to be considered before deciding on this production system.

One. The investment required to install an irrigation system is significantly higher than the costs involved in a non-irrigated production system. This can be an obstacle for some companies.
Two. In the irrigation system there is a need to capture water in adequate quantity and quality to keep the system working. This can be a problem in regions with water scarcity or poor water quality for irrigation. In addition, the excessive use of water, above the capacity of the plant to absorb it, can lead to a reduction in the productivity and quality of the sugarcane.
Three. The implementation of the irrigation system also requires a high level of maintenance and care to ensure that the system is working properly. This can be a challenge for companies that don't have enough technical expertise to keep the system in good condition.

It is very important that, before implantation, a soil and climate study process is carried out, verifying the viability of the irrigation process for the region. We must remember that this study is essential. Contrary to what many think, this system cannot be implemented in any region. There are several steps and criteria to be evaluated. Therefore, the main factors for the successful management of this crop are:

One. Soil analysis: It is necessary to identify the texture, chemical and physical composition of the soil so that the water and nutrient storage capacity can be determined.
Two. Climate zoning: Climate is an important factor in the implementation of irrigation. It is necessary to evaluate meteorological aspects, such as precipitation, evapotranspiration, temperature, wind speed, solar radiation and air humidity, and hydrological aspects, such as water availability.
Three. Determining the water demand for the crop: It is essential to assess the amount of water required at each stage of development, this includes determining evapotranspiration, defining periods of water stress and estimating water losses by percolation and surface runoff.
Four. Selection of the irrigation system: Based on the information and studies, it is possible to select the most suitable irrigation system. The most common systems in sugarcane irrigation are: sprinkler irrigation via cannon, pivot and drip irrigation.
Five. Sizing the irrigation system: It is necessary to determine the amount of water needed to meet the needs of the crop and size the irrigation system according to this demand.
Six. Irrigation monitoring and management: Once implemented, it must be constantly monitored to avoid wasting water and ensure adequate supply for the crop. This includes regularly assessing soil and crop conditions, controlling the operating parameters of the irrigation system, and making management decisions based on the data obtained.

The irrigation system can be an excellent option for the production of sugarcane in Brazil. It can increase productivity, improve cane quality, reduce production costs and minimize environmental impact.

Therefore, it is important to emphasize that irrigation should be seen as a tool that can help in the production of sugarcane, but not as a unique and definitive solution for low productivity. It is critical that growers adopt an integrated and sustainable approach to production, considering all factors that affect crop productivity.

Furthermore, it is essential that sugarcane producers are aware of climate change and adapt their irrigation practices according to the environmental conditions in their regions. Rising temperatures and reduced water availability can make the irrigation system more necessary and, at the same time, more challenging.
It is fundamental that the agricultural sector in Brazil continues to invest in technologies that allow the sustainable and efficient production of sugarcane, thus guaranteeing the supply of an increasingly demanding and competitive market.