Types of irrigation

The three main irrigation types used in the treasure valley are flood irrigation, sprinkler, and drip irrigation. By far the most commonly used is flood irrigation. It is also the cheapest but most labor intensive. It also can provide good habitat for birds and is a very effective way to irrigate a field crop like alfalfa. Sprinkler irrigation is far more expensive but more environmentally friendly. Less water run off and waste. Drip irrigation is the most water efficient but is very expensive and cannot be used for all types of growing. If the treasure valley is looking to put in another dam or heighten some of the existing dams for more irrigation why can't we subsidize having farmers install sprinklers or drip irrigation. It could solve a plethora of environmental issues and we wouldn't need to install a new dam. Farmers could grow more crops more effeciently and it would be better for the environment. Just a thought.