The history and fundamental aspects
of polyacrylamide (PAM)-use
in furrow irrigation water has been
covered in depth in several publications
(Barvenik, 1994; Lentz et al.,
1992; Lentz and Sojka, 1994a; Lentz,
1995; Lentz and Sojka, 1996; Sojka
and Lentz, 1996; Sojka and Lentz,
1997). In agriculture, the two greatest
benefits associated with this practice
are the near elimination of furrow
erosion and substantial increases
in infiltration compared to untreated
water. The large erosion reduction
has both on-site and downstream economic
and environmental benefits
(Agassi et al., 1995 ; Bahr et al., 1996;
Bahr and Steiber, 1996; Lentz et al.,
1992; Lentz, 1995; Lentz and Sojka,
1996; McCutchan eta!., 1993; Singh
et al., 1996; Sojka and Lentz, 1993;
Sojka and Lentz, 19946; Sojka et al.,
1995; Sojka and Lentz, 1997). Infiltration
effects are a substantial aspect
of these benefits, but have been less
thoroughly considered in data reported
to date
