Simulation of a Collective Solid-Set Sprinkler Irrigation Controller for Optimum Water Productivity
Publication: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 135, Issue 1
Abstract
The modernization of irrigation districts in Spain is based on the construction of collective pressurized networks equipped with remote control systems. In this paper, a simulation approach is used to explore the benefits of introducing a collective solid-set irrigation control software. The controller works in combination with a district management database, real-time evapotranspiration and meteorology information, and a remote control system. Controller decisions are based on the simulation of sprinkler irrigation performance and on crop–water balance. The decision to irrigate a plot can be guided by the use of two simulation parameters: the estimated application efficiency of the irrigation event (heavily affected by wind speed) and a crop–water stress index. Simulation experiments were performed in a district located at the Ebro basin of Spain. The collective controller resulted in water conservation (with respect to the current situation) of 2,234 and for corn and alfalfa, respectively, and in an increase in water productivity of up to 91%. Although additional research is needed to produce a reliable collective controller, these preliminary results are encouraging.
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Acknowledgments
The writers appreciate the continuous support of the manager of the MID, Carmelo Lorente. This research was funded by the Plan Nacional de of the Government of Spain, through Grant No. AGL2004-06675-C03-03 and by the of the Government of Aragón (Spain) through Grant No. PIP090/2005. A. S. received a scholarship from the Agronomic Mediterranean Institute of Zaragoza (CIHEAM).
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Information
Published In
Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 135 • Issue 1 • February 2009
Pages: 13 - 24
Copyright
© 2009 ASCE.
History
Received: Jan 21, 2008
Accepted: Apr 25, 2008
Published online: Feb 1, 2009
Published in print: Feb 2009
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