What is the most common method of applying wastewater to land?

Spray irrigation is considered the most common method of applying wastewater to land because it efficiently distributes water over a large area, ensuring that it can be absorbed by the soil and utilized by plants. This method utilizes a series of nozzles to create a fine spray of wastewater that can cover various types of terrain and vegetation.

One of the main advantages of spray irrigation is its ability to minimize puddling and surface runoff, allowing for better infiltration and nutrient uptake by plants. It also allows for controlled application rates, which can be particularly important when dealing with treated wastewater. Additionally, spray irrigation can easily be adjusted to accommodate different soil types and environmental conditions, making it versatile for various agricultural and landscaping applications.

In contrast, other methods such as ridge and furrow, border strip, and overland flow irrigation involve more specific groundwater or surface runoff management techniques. While these methods have their own merits and may be suitable for certain situations, they generally do not match the widespread application and efficiency of spray irrigation when it comes to managing wastewater through land application practices.