Which of the following is essential for effective water management in agriculture?

Implementing irrigation systems is essential for effective water management in agriculture because it allows for the controlled distribution of water to crops, ensuring they receive the right amount of moisture for healthy growth. Irrigation systems can help to optimize water usage by targeting areas that require more water and reducing waste. They can also mitigate the impact of drought conditions, allowing farmers to maintain crop production even in periods of low rainfall.

Using only surface water sources could be limiting, as it may not provide sufficient water supply in some regions or during dry seasons. Neglecting crop water needs would lead to inadequate growth and reduced yields, while avoiding soil moisture monitoring would prevent farmers from understanding the water requirements of their crops, leading to inefficient irrigation practices. Thus, implementing irrigation systems is key to ensuring that crops receive adequate water supply for optimal development.