Furrow irrigation management and design criteria using efficiency parameters and simulation models [Criterios para manejo y diseno de riego por surcos utilizando parámetros de eficiencia y modelos de simulación]

Abstract

This study analyzes the relationship between the variables of furrow irrigation and the irrigation performance parameters, crop yield, and deep percolation as a basis for furrow irrigation design and management. Application efficiency (AE), requirement efficiency (RE), requirement distribution efficiency (RDE), total distribution efficiency (TDE), and furrow irrigation management, operation, and design variables (inflow discharge, furrow length, and irrigation cutoff time) were correlated. The relationship between performance irrigation parameters and relative yield was also examined. In addition, environmental aspects related to leaching and runoff were also presented for each of the parameters. Study results indicate that increasing the length of the furrow reduces RE, RDE, and TDE values. However, an increase in inflow discharge and cutoff time increases efficiency. In contrast, an increase in furrow length increases AE while an increase in inflow discharge and cutoff time reduces it. Unlike AE, RE, RDE, and TDE parameters are well-correlated with relative yield. TDE and AE are recommended parameters for the design, management, and operation of furrow irrigation systems, in order to establish good irrigation practices, and to prevent contamination.