Water Containment Solutions Used in the Agriculture Industry
Water is one of the most valuable resources in modern agriculture. As farms face increasing pressure from climate variability, higher irrigation demands and tighter environmental regulations, reliable water containment solutions have become essential. From small family farms to large commercial operations, growers depend on engineered storage systems to secure water supplies, reduce wastage and improve operational resilience.
In this article, we explore the most common water containment solutions used across the agricultural sector, their advantages, and where each solution is most effective.
1. Steel Water Storage Tanks
Steel tanks remain one of the most widely used solutions for agricultural water storage. They are popular for:
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High strength and durability
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Large storage capacities (from thousands to millions of liters)
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Suitability for both potable and non-potable water
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Compatibility with flexible liners for long-term leak protection
Galvanised or powder-coated steel tanks are typically used for irrigation, livestock watering and emergency water reserves. When paired with a high-quality butyl or EPDM liner, steel tanks can deliver decades of reliable performance.
2. Concrete Water Tanks and Reservoirs
Concrete tanks offer exceptional longevity and structural stability. They are often selected for:
These tanks may be cast in-situ or precast and assembled onsite. Although initial installation costs can be higher, concrete systems benefit from low maintenance requirements and long service life. Many farms enhance water-tightness with internal tank liners to prevent seepage and extend tank life.
3. Lined Farm Ponds and Lagoons
For farms requiring very high-volume storage, lined ponds provide a cost-effective solution. Common uses include:
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Irrigation reservoirs
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Rainwater harvesting basins
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Slurry and effluent containment
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Emergency drought reserves
Pond liners made from EPDM, butyl rubber or reinforced geomembranes ensure containment is secure, even in areas with poor soil conditions. Thanks to their flexibility, liners accommodate ground movement and uneven surfaces better than rigid structures.
4. Flexible Water Bladder Tanks
Also known as pillow tanks or collapsible tanks, these solutions are ideal for farms seeking:
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Temporary or seasonal water storage
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Easy transport and quick installation
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Storage in remote or difficult-to-access locations
Flexible bladders are made from reinforced polymer-coated fabrics and are available in a wide range of capacities. They are increasingly popular for mobile irrigation, livestock watering during dry periods and emergency water distribution.
5. Plastic (Polyethylene) Water Tanks
Roto-moulded plastic tanks are a staple on many farms due to their:
They are typically used for smaller-scale applications such as rainwater collection, greenhouse irrigation or providing water to grazing animals. While not as durable as steel or concrete, poly tanks offer excellent practicality for everyday farm operations.
6. Bunded Containment Systems
Environmental protection is a growing priority across the agriculture sector. Bunded containment systems (double-walled tanks or tanks with secondary containment barriers) are used to prevent:
These systems are commonly paired with liner materials to create additional layers of protection, particularly for fertiliser solutions or treated water.
Agricultural operations rely on a wide variety of water containment solutions, each designed to meet specific storage, environmental and operational demands. Whether it's a lined pond supporting large-scale irrigation or a flexible bladder tank providing seasonal mobility, choosing the right system helps farmers:
By understanding the strengths of each option, growers can invest in infrastructure that supports long-term productivity and sustainability.