During recent years there has been much progress in understanding mass and energy exchanges in the

soil-plant-atmosphere system. It is nowadays well acknowledged that these processes greatly influence

the management of water resources in agricultural systems. Research advancements have produced

innovative methodologies which are ready for being transferred to operative applications for improving

the efficiency of water use in agriculture. "Efficiency" has become the key-word in all water-management

related issues; but in the context of agricultural water use, especially in Mediterranean

regions, this issue is more and more representing the real challenge for sustainable growth and

development.

The scientific articles in this book highlight most recent findings in three main topics related to efficiency

in irrigated agriculture: a) physiologic and genetic aspects, b) management and engineering aspects,

c) exploitation of alternative water resources.

Special focus is given to possible operational applications and future trends in water and soil

management, also considering the indications of European Union contained in the Water Directive

n.2000/60.