The Sumerians employed a variety of water management techniques to irrigate their fields, some of which are still in use today:
1. Canals and Ditches:
The Sumerians constructed an extensive network of canals and ditches to bring water from nearby rivers, such as the Tigris and Euphrates, to their agricultural fields. These waterways were dug manually using simple tools and often required the cooperation of entire communities.
2. Basin Irrigation:
Basin irrigation was a widely adopted practice among Sumerian farmers. Fields were divided into comparted plots or basins surrounded by low embankments. Water from canals was diverted into these basins and allowed to flood the area, saturating the soil. Once the water had seeped into the ground, the next basin was irrigated, and so on. This method allowed for controlled distribution and conservation of water.
3. Shadoofs:
Shadoofs were simple devices used for lifting water from a lower to a higher level. They consisted of a bucket attached to a rope, which was passed over a horizontal bar supported by two upright posts. Farmers would stand by the river or a well, dip the bucket into the water, and then raise it using their weight, emptying it into an irrigation channel or directly onto the field.
4. Water Wheels:
The Sumerians also developed early forms of water wheels, known as "norias," to lift water for irrigation. These devices consisted of a large wheel mounted vertically on a horizontal axle and fitted with buckets along the rim. As the wheel rotated, the buckets scooped water from the river or a reservoir and carried it upwards, where it could be distributed to the fields through channels.
5. Underground Galleries:
Another innovative technique used by the Sumerians was the construction of underground galleries or channels known as "qanats." These subterranean aqueducts were dug into sloping terrain to tap into groundwater sources and transport it over long distances to the fields. Qanats were a remarkably efficient means of water conservation, as they prevented evaporation and minimized water loss through seepage.
6. Reservoirs:
Sumerian farmers also constructed reservoirs or artificial ponds to store excess water during the wet season for use during the dry periods. These reservoirs helped regulate the availability of water and allowed farmers to expand their cultivation beyond the immediate vicinity of rivers.
The irrigation methods employed by the Sumerians enabled them to cultivate a variety of crops, including wheat, barley, dates, and vegetables, and sustain a flourishing agricultural economy. Their techniques demonstrated a deep understanding of water management principles and showcased their remarkable engineering capabilities, which laid the foundation for future civilizations in Mesopotamia and beyond.