Melisew Misker Belay

Irrigation Performance Evaluation: Organization and Management of Irrigation Schemes in Eastern Amhara, Ethiopia Melisew Misker Belay

The principal objective of surface irrigation systems evaluation is to identify management practices and system configurations that is feasible and effective to improve irrigation efficiency. Evaluation plays a fundamental role in improving surface irrigation systems by providing the information required for design,model validation and advising irrigators on how to improve their systems and management practices. The technical performance of the schemes was evaluated by considering conveyance efficiency, application efficiency, dependability of irrigation interval and sustainability of irrigation. Moreover, availability of institutional and support services , market availability and conflict management were investigated through questionnaire administered to beneficiary farmers and other stakeholders. The conveyance loss in Sanka traditional irrigation is greater than Golina modern irrigation scheme but in Sanka participation of farmers and sense of ownership is rated to be 100%. Therefore, if proper canal and canal structures are in place and water users associations are empowered more in order for it to enforce its bylaws it will augment the efficiency of the scheme exceedingly.