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Agriculture has been around for thousands 
of years, but it still takes place in an 
extremely inefficient way.

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We decided to tackle one particular aspect 
of agriculture to improve

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through the application of biomimicry.

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The problem identified is inefficient water 
use in alfalfa farming in California deserts.

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Alfalfa is grown in large, open fields and 
watered using sprinklers,

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causing quick evaporation, which wastes water 
from the Colorado River –

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– the largest source of water for alfalfa 
farms and nearby cities.

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Because this threatens citizens and wildlife 
dependent on the river,

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this problem is relevant to the 6th UN SDG, 
“Clean Water and Sanitation” –

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specifically, we focused on target 6.4 for 
increased water efficiency.

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The solution aims to improve the irrigation 
system by minimizing evaporation and recycling 
water

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while maintaining the optimal condition for 
alfalfa growth.

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Our biological model is cacti.

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“Napiform roots” are a type of cactus root 
with a round shape.

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While typical roots can only reach down into 
the soil and absorb water and nutrients,

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these roots can also store the water absorbed 
underground until necessary.

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Another notable feature was the valve regulation 
of some seeds of desert plants.

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Its hilar valve, or where the seed was attached 
to its parent plant,

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has the ability to regulate its permeability 
based on its moisture level.

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When the moisture level is high, the seed 
closes its valve and stops absorbing water 
until it drops again.

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With these features combined, we propose 
a new solution to alfalfa farming.

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The mechanism behind this is simple.

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A water tank storing transported water will 
be connected to a series of underground pipes,

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each lining one row of alfalfa to directly 
supply water to the soil.

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The pipes will then return to the water tank 
after reaching the end of the row,

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allowing excess water to be recycled.

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Each pipe will have 2 valves to regulate 
the flow of water based on the moisture level 
of the soil.

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It is difficult to prevent evaporation perfectly 
because alfalfa requires specific growing 
conditions in order to thrive.

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However, the underground watering and circulation 
system will significantly improve water efficiency 
of alfalfa farms

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and prevent further damage to the Colorado 
River and to the citizens who depend on it 
for survival.