ARUSHA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

DEPARTMENT: CIVIL DEPARTMENT

PROGRAME: CIVIL AND IRRIGATION ENGINEERING

MODULE CODE: CIU 08211

MODULE NAME: IRRIGATION WATER MANAGEMENT

TASK: GROUP ASSIGNMENT

MODULE TUITOR: DR. UPENDO MSOVU

GROUP MEMBERS

S/N NAME ADMISSION NUMBER

1. EMMANUEL C NAMKUMBE 21020413009
2. HERBERT VICTOR MHINA 21020413013
QUESTION NO 01.

a) Describe the processes of Monitoring and Evaluation irrigation schemes through

performance indicators.

Monitoring and evaluation of irrigation schemes through performance indicators is

crucial for assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of these schemes. By using
performance indicators, stakeholders can identify areas of improvement, make informed
decisions, and ensure the sustainable management of irrigation systems.

Here are the processes involved in monitoring and evaluating irrigation schemes through
performance indicators:

i. Identification of Performance Indicators:

 The first step is to identify and select appropriate performance indicators
that align with the objectives and goals of the irrigation scheme.
These may include;
 Water use efficiency (e.g., crop yield per unit of water used)
 Irrigation efficiency (e.g., ratio of water delivered to water
consumed)
 Equity of water distribution (e.g., variability in water allocation
among users)
 Crop productivity (e.g., yield per unit of land)
 Environmental indicators (e.g., water table levels, soil salinity)
 Financial and economic indicators (e.g., cost recovery, net returns)
 Performance indicators can be categorized into internal and external
indicators. Internal indicators focus on the management targets and
processes within the irrigation scheme, while external indicators assess the
outcomes and impacts of the scheme

ii. Data Collection:

 Once the performance indicators are identified, data collection is
conducted to measure and assess the performance of the irrigation scheme.
 Data can be collected through various methods such as field
measurements, surveys, interviews, remote sensing, and existing records
 The data collected should be relevant, accurate, and reliable to ensure the
validity of the performance assessment by establishing a consistent
schedule for data collection to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.
This may involve periodic measurements, real-time monitoring systems,
or data collection during specific stages of the irrigation cycle.
 iii. Data Analysis and Interpretation:
 The collected data is then analyzed to calculate the performance
indicators.
 Statistical analysis and modeling techniques may be employed to interpret
the data and derive meaningful insights
 The analysis should consider the specific context and objectives of the
irrigation scheme to provide relevant and actionable information

iv. Performance Evaluation:

 The calculated performance indicators are compared against predefined
targets or benchmarks to evaluate the performance of the irrigation
scheme.
 The evaluation process involves assessing the efficiency, effectiveness,
and sustainability of the scheme.
 It helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in the
management and operation of the irrigation scheme.

v. Reporting and Feedback:

 The results of the performance evaluation are documented in a
comprehensive report.
 The report should include the findings, recommendations, and action plans
for addressing any identified issues or gaps.
 Feedback from stakeholders, including farmers, water users, and
management authorities, is essential to ensure the relevance and
effectiveness of the evaluation process.

vi. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement:

 Monitoring and evaluation of irrigation schemes should be an ongoing
process to track the progress and make necessary adjustments.
 Regular monitoring allows for the timely identification of changes,
challenges, and opportunities, enabling proactive management and
decision-making
 The feedback and recommendations from the evaluation process should be
used to implement improvements and optimize the performance of the
irrigation scheme.

By following these processes, stakeholders can effectively monitor and evaluate irrigation
schemes through performance indicators. This enables them to make informed decisions,
improve the management of the schemes, and ensure the sustainable use of water resources.
b) Explain in tabular form the ten (10) major problems resulting in the non-sustainability of
irrigation and drainage schemes and their appropriate mitigation measures.

Major Problems Mitigation Measures

1. Waterlogging and salinization - Improve drainage systems
- Adopt appropriate irrigation scheduling
and techniques
- Implement soil salinity management
practices (e.g., leaching, salt-tolerant
crops)
2. Deterioration of infrastructure - Regularly maintain and rehabilitate
irrigation and drainage infrastructure
- Implement proper asset management
strategies
- Allocate sufficient funds for
infrastructure upkeep
3. Inefficient water use - Promote water-saving technologies (e.g.,
drip irrigation, sprinklers)
- Implement volumetric water pricing and
metering
- Educate farmers on efficient water
management practices
4. Inequitable water distribution - Establish transparent and equitable water
allocation mechanisms
- Involve stakeholders in decision-making
processes
- Ensure equitable access to water
resources
5. Lack of farmer participation - Encourage active participation of
farmers in scheme management
- Establish water user associations and
strengthen their capacity
- Promote participatory decision-making
and conflict resolution
6. Insufficient funding and cost recovery - Implement sustainable financing
mechanisms (e.g., user fees, public-
private partnerships)
- Ensure cost recovery through
appropriate pricing and collection
strategies
- Secure government and donor support
for long-term investments
7. Poor institutional coordination - Strengthen inter-agency coordination
and communication
-Clarify roles and responsibilities of
 different stakeholders
- Establish effective monitoring and
evaluation frameworks
8. Inadequate technical capacity - Provide training and capacity-building
programs for scheme managers and
farmers
- Encourage knowledge-sharing and
exchange of best practices
- Invest in research and development for
innovative solutions
9. Environmental degradation - Adopt sustainable land and water
management practices
- Implement environmental impact
assessments and mitigation measures
- Promote integrated watershed
management approaches
10. Climate change impacts - Assess climate-related risks and
vulnerabilities
- Develop and implement climate-resilient
irrigation and drainage strategies
- Promote climate-smart agriculture and
water management techniques

By addressing these problems through the proposed mitigation measures, irrigation and drainage
schemes can be made more sustainable, efficient, and resilient, ultimately improving food
security, water resources management, and environmental protection. It is important to note that
specific solutions may vary depending on the local context, available resources, and project
requirements

c) Explain any two points to be considered during liaising with Stakeholders under the
following;

i) Encouraging participation

 Building Trust and Relationships: When encouraging participation

from stakeholders, it is crucial to establish trust and build positive
relationships. This can be achieved by actively listening to their
concerns, acknowledging their perspectives, and involving them in
decision-making processes. Creating an inclusive and open
 environment where stakeholders feel heard and valued will encourage
their active participation.
 Providing Clear Communication Channels: Effective
communication is essential in encouraging stakeholder participation.
Establish clear communication channels that allow stakeholders to
provide input, ask questions, and receive updates. This may include
regular meetings, workshops, online platforms, or feedback
mechanisms. Ensuring that information is easily accessible,
transparent, and understandable fosters active engagement and
encourages stakeholders to contribute constructively.

ii) Getting started in liaising

 Conducting a comprehensive stakeholder mapping and analysis:

This will help to identify and understand the key stakeholders to be
involved in the scheme. For example, identifying individuals, groups,
and organizations interested or that are affected with the project in one
way or the other, as well as assessing their needs, concerns and
potential roles in the project
 Objective Setting and Alignment: Clearly define the objectives and
purpose of the liaison process. Identify what you aim to achieve
through stakeholder engagement and align these objectives with the
overall project goals. Setting specific, measurable, achievable,
relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives helps provide direction
and clarity. It also enables stakeholders to understand the purpose of
their involvement and increases their motivation to participate.

iii) People planning

 Empowering Stakeholder Representatives: Identify and support the

selection of representative stakeholders who can effectively voice the
concerns and interests of their respective groups. Provide training and
capacity-building opportunities to empower these representatives to
participate meaningfully in the decision-making process.
 Accommodating Diverse Needs: Recognize and accommodate the
diverse backgrounds, languages, and accessibility needs of different
stakeholders. Adapt communication and engagement strategies to
ensure inclusive participation.

iv) Time and money

 Allocating Sufficient Resources: Ensure that adequate time and

financial resources are allocated for effective stakeholder engagement
 activities. Factor in the costs of organizing meetings, workshops,
travel, and other stakeholder-related expenses in the project budget.
 Prioritizing Sustainability: Develop long-term strategies for
sustaining stakeholder engagement beyond the project's lifespan.
Encourage stakeholders to take ownership of the process and
contribute to the ongoing maintenance of the irrigation and drainage
scheme

d) Explain the importance of Irrigation scheme revitalization

Liaising with stakeholders in irrigation schemes is the process of collaborating with

and engaging various people and groups who are interested in irrigation projects or in one
way or the other are affected by that project. The stakeholders include water users,
farmers, landowners, local communities, government agencies, non-government
organizations (NGOs) and other relevant parties.

The importance of irrigation scheme revitalization lies in its potential to enhance

agricultural productivity, improve water resource management, and contribute to
sustainable development. Here are several key reasons highlighting the significance of
irrigation scheme revitalization:

i. Enhancing Productivity and Crop Yields:

 Poorly maintained or outdated irrigation systems can result in
suboptimal water distribution, leading to reduced crop yields and
overall agricultural productivity.
 Revitalization efforts can improve water availability, timing, and
distribution, allowing farmers to cultivate their land more effectively
and achieve higher crop yields.

ii. Improving Water Use Efficiency:

 Many older irrigation schemes often suffer from inefficient water use,
leading to water losses, waterlogging, and salinization.
 Revitalization efforts can focus on upgrading infrastructure, adopting
water-saving technologies, and implementing better water
management practices to enhance water use efficiency.

iii. Addressing Deteriorating Infrastructure:

 Over time, irrigation and drainage infrastructure can deteriorate due to
lack of maintenance, natural wear and tear, or damage from extreme
weather events.
  Revitalization programs can address the rehabilitation and
modernization of canals, pipelines, pumping stations, and other critical
infrastructure to ensure their continued functionality and reliability.

iv. Mitigating Environmental Impacts:

 Outdated irrigation schemes can contribute to environmental
degradation, such as soil salinization, waterlogging, and depletion of
groundwater resources.
 Revitalization measures can address these environmental issues by
implementing sustainable water management practices, promoting
integrated water resources management, and incorporating climate-
smart agriculture techniques.

v. Ensuring Equitable Water Distribution:

 Older irrigation schemes often suffer from inequitable water
distribution, with some areas or farmers receiving disproportionate
access to water.
 Revitalization can involve the establishment of transparent and fair
water allocation mechanisms, as well as the empowerment of water
user associations to manage water resources more equitably.

vi. Adapting to Climate Change:

 Climate change is posing new challenges to irrigation systems, such as
increased variability in water availability, extreme weather events, and
shifts in cropping patterns.
 Revitalization efforts can incorporate climate-resilient strategies, such
as the use of drought-tolerant crops, improved water storage and
conservation measures, and the integration of renewable energy
sources to power irrigation systems.

vii. Enhancing Stakeholder Participation and Ownership:

 Successful revitalization programs often involve active engagement
and participation of stakeholders, including farmers, water user
associations, and local communities.
 This can foster a sense of ownership and commitment among
stakeholders, leading to improved scheme management and
sustainability.
By addressing these key aspects through irrigation scheme revitalization, project teams can
unlock the full potential of agricultural systems, improve food security, enhance environmental
sustainability, and support the livelihoods of rural communities.
QUESTION NO 02:

a) What are the seven (10) minimum documentation needed for Irrigation Water
Management
The minimum documentation needed for Irrigation Water Management may vary depending
on specific regulations and requirements in different regions. However, here are ten common
documents that are often required for Irrigation Water Management:
i. Water Use Permit Application: This is the primary document that outlines the
purpose and details of the irrigation water management plan. It includes
information such as the location of the irrigation system, water source, and
estimated water usage.

ii. Site Plan: A detailed site plan is essential to identify the layout of the irrigation
system, including the location of water sources, pipes, valves, and sprinklers. It
helps in understanding the overall design and functionality of the system.

iii. Water Source Documentation: This includes information about the source of
water for irrigation, such as wells, rivers, or reservoirs. It may require permits or
licenses for water extraction, depending on local regulations.

iv. Water Usage Records: Documentation of water usage is crucial for monitoring
and managing irrigation practices. This includes records of water meter readings,
irrigation schedules, and the amount of water applied to different areas.

v. Irrigation System Design: Detailed plans and specifications of the irrigation

system, including pipe sizes, sprinkler types, and layout, are necessary to ensure
efficient water distribution and management.

vi. Soil Analysis Reports: Soil analysis reports provide information about soil
composition, texture, and moisture-holding capacity. This helps in determining
appropriate irrigation scheduling and water application rates.

vii. Crop Water Requirement Calculations: Documentation of crop water

requirements based on factors such as crop type, growth stage, and local climate
conditions is essential for efficient irrigation management.
 viii. Irrigation Schedule: A well-defined irrigation schedule outlines when and how
much water should be applied to different areas or crops. It helps in optimizing
water use and preventing over or under-irrigation.

ix. Maintenance and Repair Records: Documentation of regular maintenance

activities, repairs, and upgrades to the irrigation system ensures its proper
functioning and longevity.

x. Water Management Plan: A comprehensive water management plan outlines

the overall strategy for efficient water use, including measures to minimize water
loss, improve irrigation efficiency, and monitor water quality.

b) List the components of Net Irrigation Water Requirements

The components of Net Irrigation Water Requirements are:

• Crop Evapotranspiration (ETcrop ).
• Auxiliary water needs such as leaching, temperature modification and crop
quality (Aw ).
• Effective precipitation (Pe ).
• Groundwater contribution (GW).
• Change in soil water content for the period of consideration (ΔSW).

c) Tomatoes (medium rooting crops) are grown on a loamy soil. From the net irrigation
depth indicated in Table 1, the gross irrigation depth (ds) for furrow irrigation with
application efficiency of 60% can be estimated. Assume that the irrigation water need
(IN) in mm/month for tomatoes planted from 1st February and harvested 30th June, is as
follows: ie. Feb, March, April, May, June = 67, 110, 166, 195, and 180 respectively.
Then, calculate the irrigation schedule for such tomatoes.

Solution

 Step1:
 From table 1,
Net irrigation depth = 40mm and
Gross irrigation depth(ds) = 100%*40/60% = 67mm.

 Step 2:
  The irrigation water needs for the total growing season
= 67+110+166+195+180
=718mm.
 This means that over the total growing season, a net water layer of 718mm
has to be brought onto the field.

 Step 3:
 The number of applications over the total growing season can be obtained
by dividing the irrigation water need over the growing season by the net
irrigation per application.
= 718mm/40
= 18 applications are required.

 Step 4: Irrigation interval (INT) in days:

 Thus, a total of 18 application is required. The total growing season for

tomatoes is 5 months (Feb- June) or 5* 30 days = 150 days.

 Then 18 applications in 150 days corresponds to one application every

150/18 = 8.3 days
= 8 days.

 Therefore, the irrigation schedule for tomatoes is as follows:

Net application depth (dnet) = 40mm,
Gross application depth (dgross) = 67mm and
Irrigation interval = 8 days.