Combination of GIS and AHP for site selection of pressurized irrigation systems in the Izeh plain, Iran

Abstract

Irrigation systems have in recent years attained a higher level of variety in as such that the selection and implementation of an irrigation system is based on the physical constraints of the site area thus giving way to a much more adequate irrigation efficiency. With due regards to the water crisis in Iran and subsequent drought conditions, the implementing of similar irrigation systems in different regional conditions lacks any justification. In the Izeh plain the use of surface irrigation systems with minimal efficiency is very common. In order to implement and operate modern irrigation systems and maximize water saving, the site selection of pressurized irrigation systems was evaluated through the fusing of AHP and GIS maps for a variety of pressurized irrigation systems followed by the selecting of the best irrigation system for each region. In the current study physical and socio-economic criteria were selected as the main criterion and were then classified into several sub-criterions.A Drip irrigation system, a Gun irrigation system, a center pivot irrigation system and a linear irrigation system were selected as the options utilized when using the AHP method. The Gun and center pivot irrigation systems had the least value as they were not suitable for mountainous area. Drip and linear irrigation systems were given a higher value and were suitable for implementation in most regions. After comparing different sub-criterion, the drip irrigation system was identified as being the most suitable pressurized irrigation system for the Izeh plain.