Some low-cost methods for seepage control in storage tanks in alfisols and vertisols

Seepage losses from storage tanks in water harvesting systems can be a major operational problem. Some low cost techniques for seepage control in earthen tanks were tried in alfisol and vertisol locations in India, involving both laboratory and field trials. There were three treatments, viz., use of soil dispersant, soil cement lining and improvement in gradation of soil particles. Preliminary cost estimates showed all linings tried in alfisols but not in vertisols were justified economically, on the basis of a yield increase due to a supplementary irrigation at the critical stage of moisture stress in selected crops, using the saved water.