225-Furrow Irrigation Modelling Present and Future.

Abstract

Furrow irrigation is the most common irrigation method practiced in the world because it requires less capital investment compared to pressurized irrigation systems. Despite its wide use, the method is characterized by low performance or low efficiencies. These shortcomings are not inherent to the method but are attributed to poor design, implementation and management. Mathematical simulation of irrigation can lead to improvement in the performance of furrow irrigation systems, without resorting to extensive field experimentation and the commitments of time and money. Researchers developed several mathematical models for simulating furrow irrigation using mass and momentum conservation of physics. However, the existing furrow irrigation models differ in solution techniques, number of sub-modules and applicability. A few models simulate the irrigation impact on the environment, which is the prime concern for sustainable development. Hence, it is necessary to review the existing furrow irrigation models and to modify the modelling approach for attaining efficient water application and for mitigating environmental pollution. This paper presents review on status of furrow irrigation modeling and some of the issues that need to be addressed to make furrow irrigation models suitable for sustainable management of furrow irrigation.