WATER APPLICATION

1. If a choice can be made between irrigation systems which depend on gravity flow and on pumping, gravity flow systems (which generally havelower capital and running costs and simpler management) are usually to be preferred.
2. Channel irrigation systems usually require joint management of the water source, for which effective Water Users Associations are required.
   
3. If water is pumped from below ground, care must be taken not to lower the groundwater level through over-abstraction.
   
4. If water is taken from rivers or dams the effect on users further downstream must be assessed.
5. Energy-conserving lifting devices (wind or solar pumps, shadufs etc.) are generally preferable to higher cost and more complex pumping technologies.

Related information: Other factors in Irrigation management: water quantity: water quality; drainage method; water charges; irrigation management.