Planning an Irrigation Project Today

The ultimate purpose of an irrigation project, whether it is public or private, is to benefit the farmer, the businessman, the industrialist, the consumer, and finally the nation. Such projects have important and recognizable effects on the economy and social fiber of the areas where they are located, whether in the United States, or elsewhere. Six tenths of 1% of the world's land area is irrigated, and feeds 25% of the world population. With world population growing at 70,000 people a day, and with less land under cultivation than there was 15 years ago, irrigation becomes more significant. To meet community and regional needs, most projects serve more purposes than one, such as irrigation, flood control, hydroelectric power, municipal and industrial water supply, navigation, public health, fish and wildlife, recreation, and drainage. Participation of local interests in the planning, operation, and repayment of project costs contributes to project success.