Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
11
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
This research delves into the dynamic interplay between irrigation practices, wetland rice productivity (Oryza sativa
L.), and the prevailing impacts of climate change in North Sumatra Province. As climate patterns shift, the vulnerability
of agriculture becomes increasingly evident, necessitating a focused investigation into the role of irrigation in
mitigating or exacerbating these changes. Through a comprehensive analysis of wetland rice cultivation and its
response to varying irrigation strategies, this study aims to elucidate the adaptive measures required to sustain and
enhance productivity in the face of evolving climatic conditions. The findings provide crucial insights for agricultural
policymakers, practitioners, and researchers striving to secure food production in the changing climate landscape.
KEYWORDS
Irrigation, Wetland Rice, Oryza sativa L., Climate Change, Adaptation, Agriculture, Productivity, North Sumatra
Province, Sustainability, Climate Resilience.
INTRODUCTION
In the lush landscapes of North Sumatra Province,
where the vibrant green of wetland rice paddies
defines the agrarian panorama, the intricate
relationship between agriculture, irrigation, and
climate change takes center stage. As our planet
undergoes discernible shifts in climate patterns, the
Research Article
ADAPTING AGRICULTURE: EXPLORING THE EFFECTS OF IRRIGATION ON
WETLAND RICE PRODUCTIVITY (ORYZA SATIVA L.) AMID CLIMATE
CHANGE IN NORTH SUMATRA PROVINCE
Submission Date:
December 24, 2023,
Accepted Date:
December 29, 2023,
Published Date:
January 03, 2024
Crossref doi:
https://doi.org/10.37547/ajahi/Volume04Issue01-03
Hasbul Chalil
Agribusiness Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Indonesia
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ajahi
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
12
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
implications for staple crops like wetland rice (Oryza
sativa
L.)
become
increasingly
pronounced,
necessitating a comprehensive exploration of adaptive
measures. This study, titled "Adapting Agriculture:
Exploring the Effects of Irrigation on Wetland Rice
Productivity Amid Climate Change in North Sumatra
Province," embarks on a journey to unravel the
complexities of this crucial nexus.
The pivotal role of wetland rice in the regional and
national food security cannot be overstated. However,
the intensifying impacts of climate change,
characterized by altered precipitation patterns and
temperature fluctuations, pose significant challenges
to the traditional cultivation practices that have
sustained this vital crop. Against this backdrop, the role
of irrigation emerges as a critical factor in determining
the resilience of wetland rice production in the face of
climatic uncertainties.
This research seeks to bridge the gap between theory
and practice by examining how varying irrigation
strategies influence wetland rice productivity amidst
changing climatic conditions. By understanding the
intricate dynamics between water management,
agricultural productivity, and climate adaptation, we
aim to provide actionable insights for policymakers,
farmers, and researchers grappling with the imperative
to safeguard food production in an era of
environmental flux.
Throughout the following sections, we will navigate
the nuances of wetland rice cultivation, irrigation
practices, and the localized impacts of climate change
in North Sumatra Province. Through this exploration,
we aspire to contribute valuable knowledge that
empowers
stakeholders
to
develop
adaptive
strategies, ensuring the continued vitality and
sustainability of wetland rice agriculture in the region.
As we delve into the heart of adapting agriculture, the
insights gained from this study hold the potential to
shape resilient and forward-thinking approaches to
address the challenges posed by climate change in the
agricultural landscapes of North Sumatra Province.
METHOD
The exploration of the effects of irrigation on wetland
rice productivity (Oryza sativa L.) amid climate change
in North Sumatra Province involved a systematic and
dynamic process that navigated the intricacies of
agricultural adaptation. Initiated by an extensive
literature review to contextualize the study, the
research progressed through key stages, incorporating
field
surveys,
remote
sensing,
stakeholder
engagement, and interdisciplinary analyses.
The initial step encompassed the selection of study
sites, strategically chosen to represent diverse
agroecological zones within the province. This allowed
for a nuanced understanding of irrigation practices and
their correlation with climate dynamics across
different landscapes. Concurrently, meteorological
data were gathered to establish a robust foundation
for assessing climate variables influencing wetland rice
productivity.
Field surveys played a pivotal role in capturing the
realities of wetland rice cultivation. Engaging directly
with farmers, the research team delved into the
intricacies of irrigation methods, crop choices, and
adaptation strategies employed in response to climate
change.
Remote
sensing
and
GIS
analysis
complemented these efforts by providing a spatial
perspective on land use changes and the distribution
of wetland rice paddies over time.
Stakeholder interviews enriched the data collection
process, offering qualitative insights into the socio-
economic factors shaping irrigation decisions. These
Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
13
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
interviews not only provided context for the
quantitative data but also illuminated the challenges
and opportunities perceived by those directly involved
in wetland rice agriculture.
The data collected underwent rigorous analysis,
employing statistical methods to discern correlations
between irrigation practices, climate variables, and
wetland rice productivity. Thematic analysis of
qualitative data from interviews added a layer of
understanding, capturing nuanced patterns and trends
related to climate change adaptation.
An interdisciplinary approach was crucial in
synthesizing findings from diverse data sources,
fostering a comprehensive interpretation of the
complex relationships at play. This synthesis aimed to
bridge the gap between theory and practical
application, offering insights that could inform
adaptive measures for sustaining wetland rice
agriculture in the face of climate change.
Through this process, the research aimed not only to
uncover the nuanced dynamics between irrigation,
climate change, and wetland rice productivity but also
to contribute practical knowledge that empowers
stakeholders to adapt agricultural practices in North
Sumatra Province. The insights gained from this
exploration hold the potential to guide resilient
approaches to navigate the evolving challenges of
climate change in the region's agricultural landscapes.
To comprehensively explore the effects of irrigation on
wetland rice productivity (Oryza sativa L.) amidst
climate change in North Sumatra Province, a multi-
faceted research methodology was employed. The
study sought to integrate quantitative and qualitative
approaches, incorporating field observations, data
collection, and statistical analyses to provide a holistic
understanding of the intricate relationships between
irrigation practices, climate dynamics, and agricultural
outcomes.
Literature Review:
The research commenced with an extensive review of
existing literature, encompassing studies related to
wetland rice cultivation, irrigation techniques, and the
impacts of climate change on agriculture. This
literature review served as a foundational step to
identify gaps in knowledge, establish theoretical
frameworks, and inform the subsequent stages of the
research.
Site Selection:
A rigorous site selection process was undertaken to
ensure the representation of diverse agroecological
zones within North Sumatra Province. Specific wetland
rice paddies were identified based on their
susceptibility to climate change effects and the
variation in irrigation practices employed by local
farmers. This allowed for a nuanced examination of
different contexts within the province.
Data Collection:
a. Field Surveys:
Field surveys were conducted to gather primary data
on wetland rice cultivation practices and irrigation
methods. This involved direct engagement with
farmers to understand their approaches to water
management, crop varieties, and adaptation strategies
in response to changing climate conditions.
b. Meteorological Data:
Meteorological
data,
including
temperature,
precipitation, and humidity, were collected from local
weather stations. These data were crucial for assessing
the climatic variables influencing wetland rice
Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
14
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
productivity and informing the climate change context
in the study area.
Remote Sensing and GIS Analysis:
Satellite imagery and Geographic Information System
(GIS) analysis were employed to assess changes in land
use, vegetation cover, and the spatial distribution of
wetland rice paddies over time. This geospatial
approach provided valuable insights into the landscape
dynamics influenced by both irrigation practices and
climate change.
Stakeholder Interviews:
In-depth interviews were conducted with key
stakeholders, including farmers, agricultural extension
officers, and local authorities. These qualitative
insights provided a contextual understanding of the
socio-economic factors influencing irrigation decisions,
as well as the perceived challenges and opportunities
associated with climate change adaptation.
Data Analysis:
Quantitative data collected from field surveys and
meteorological records underwent statistical analysis
to identify correlations between irrigation practices,
climate variables, and wetland rice productivity.
Qualitative data from interviews were subjected to
thematic analysis to extract patterns and trends
related to adaptation strategies.
Interdisciplinary Approach:
An interdisciplinary approach was adopted to
synthesize findings from different data sources,
allowing for a comprehensive interpretation of the
complex relationships between irrigation, climate
change, and wetland rice productivity.
By
integrating
these
diverse
methodological
approaches, this research aimed to provide a robust
foundation for understanding the adaptive measures
required to sustain wetland rice agriculture amidst the
challenges posed by climate change in North Sumatra
Province.
RESULTS
The comprehensive exploration of the effects of
irrigation on wetland rice productivity (Oryza sativa L.)
amid climate change in North Sumatra Province yielded
multifaceted results. Quantitative analysis revealed
distinct correlations between irrigation practices,
climate variables, and wetland rice yields. Variations in
water management strategies were observed to
significantly
influence
productivity
outcomes,
highlighting the role of adaptation in the face of
changing climatic conditions.
Field surveys illuminated the diverse array of irrigation
techniques employed by farmers, ranging from
traditional methods to more modern, water-efficient
approaches. Spatial analyses using remote sensing and
GIS underscored changes in land use patterns and the
spatial distribution of wetland rice paddies, providing a
visual
representation
of
landscape
dynamics
influenced by both irrigation practices and climate
change.
Stakeholder
interviews
contributed
qualitative
insights, unveiling the socio-economic factors
influencing irrigation decisions. Farmers expressed a
nuanced understanding of climate change impacts,
adapting planting calendars and crop varieties to
optimize productivity. Challenges such as water
scarcity, changing precipitation patterns, and the need
for infrastructure improvements were recurrent
themes, underscoring the complexity of the adaptive
process.
Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
15
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
DISCUSSION
The discussion section delves into the intricate
relationships unveiled by the results. It explores the
synergies between irrigation practices and climate
change adaptation, emphasizing the need for context-
specific strategies to enhance wetland rice
productivity. Variability in climate-induced stressors,
such as altered precipitation patterns and temperature
fluctuations, necessitates adaptive measures tailored
to the unique agroecological zones within North
Sumatra Province.
The dialogue extends to the economic implications of
adapting agriculture to climate change, with
considerations for sustainable water management
practices and the potential benefits of modernizing
irrigation infrastructure. The socio-economic resilience
of farmers emerges as a focal point, underlining the
importance of community engagement and supportive
policies for successful adaptation.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the study, "Adapting Agriculture:
Exploring the Effects of Irrigation on Wetland Rice
Productivity Amid Climate Change in North Sumatra
Province," provides valuable insights into the
intricacies of climate change adaptation in wetland rice
agriculture. The results underscore the pivotal role of
irrigation practices in shaping productivity outcomes
and highlight the dynamic nature of adaptation
strategies employed by farmers.
The findings of this research contribute not only to the
academic understanding of the interplay between
irrigation, climate change, and wetland rice
productivity but also offer practical implications for
stakeholders. Policymakers, agricultural practitioners,
and researchers can leverage these insights to
formulate targeted strategies for sustaining and
enhancing wetland rice production in the evolving
climate landscape of North Sumatra Province.
As North Sumatra navigates the challenges of climate
change, the adaptive measures uncovered in this study
serve as a foundation for resilient agricultural
practices. By fostering an environment of collaboration
and knowledge exchange, the region can work
towards securing the future viability of wetland rice
agriculture, ensuring food security and economic
stability in the face of a changing climate.
REFERENCES
1.
Balai Besar Penelitian Tanaman Padi, Teknik irigasi
hemat air. Jawa Barat: Kementrian Pertanian, 2015.
2.
H. S. Hasibuan, “Analisa kebutuhan air irigasi
daerah irigasi sawah Kabupaten Kampar,” Journal
Aptek, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 97-102, 2010.
3.
N. Mirza and M. Schmitz, “Economic assessment of
the impact of climate change on agriculture of
Pakistan,” Bussines and Econmic Horizons, vol. 4,
no.1, pp. 1-12, 2011.
4.
H. Hadi, D. Chalil, and Rahmanta, “Pengaruh
perubahan iklim terhadap produksi padi sawah
di Provinsi Sumatera Utara,” Skripsi, Fakultas
Pertanian, Universitas Sumatera Utara. Medan,
2017.
5.
P. R. Hosang, J. Tatuh, and E. X. Johannes,” Analisis
dampak perubahan iklim terhadap produksi beras
Provinsi Sulawesi Utara Tahun 2013-
2030,”
Eugenia, vol. 18, no. 3, 2012.
6.
Balai Besar Penelitian Tanaman Padi, Klasifikasi
umur padi. Jawa Barat: Kementrian Pertanian,
2015.
7.
Ruminta, “Analisis Penurunan Produksi Tanaman
Padi Akibat Perubahan Iklim di Kabupaten
Bandung Jawa Barat,” Journal Cultivation, vol. 15,
no. 1, 2016.
Volume 04 Issue 01-2024
16
American Journal Of Agriculture And Horticulture Innovations
(ISSN
–
2771-2559)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
01
Pages:
11-16
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
7.
471
)
OCLC
–
1290679216
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
8.
N. I. Minsyah, A. Meilin, and Endrizal, Optimalisasi
pemanfaatan
lahan
sawah
irigasi
untuk
peningkatan produksi padi sawah di Provinsi
Jambi. Jambi, 2015.