Canal lining involves adding an impermeable layer to canal beds and banks to reduce water seepage losses. Common lining materials include compacted earth, concrete, and plastic membranes. Lining can conserve up to 50% of irrigation water by preventing seepage and allowing canals to maintain higher water velocities using smaller cross-sections. It also stabilizes canal banks, prevents erosion, and increases the command area by allowing flatter canal slopes. Hard linings include cast concrete while earth linings use compacted soil or soil-bentonite mixes. Buried plastic membranes are another option but are susceptible to damage.