Irrigation management: principles and practices

Abstract

Abstract This book draws on the author's experience and work over 30 years and in some 28 countries in the management, operation and maintenance of irrigation and drainage schemes. The book provides knowledge for management of irrigation and drainage systems in the 21st century, covering the traditional technical areas related to system operation and maintenance and expanding managerial, institutional and organizational aspects related to the changing political, social and economic environment. It emphasizes the management of irrigation as a business enterprise, moving management thinking out of traditional public sector mindsets to more customer-focused, performance-oriented service delivery. The book aims to provide practical guidelines to improve the three key processes of management, operation and maintenance of such systems. In the management context, it deals with institutional issues, such as water law, and management structures and management processes, including establishing and working with water users associations, restructuring irrigation and drainage agencies, fee setting and cost recovery. In the operation context, the book provides practical guidance on key operation processes, including irrigation scheduling at main system and on-farm level, and performance management tools. In the maintenance context, it covers maintenance management processes, including maintenance identification, planning, budgeting, implementation, supervision and recording. Asset management is increasingly used as a tool for maintenance management, and is covered in some detail.