Assessment of Irrigation Schemes with Performance Indicators in Southeastern Irrigation District of Turkey

Abstract

Water resources are among the most important natural riches ofthe countries, so this resource must be used correctly andsustainable, especially in the agriculture sector. The SoutheasternDistrict of Turkey, has abundant water resources but is known asa region where the problems arising from the excessive use ofwater. In this study, 5 irrigation schemes (Akçakale, Şanlıurfa,Yaylak Plain, Upper Harran, Bozova) in the Southeastern Districtof Turkey were chosen as a material to investigate theperformance. It is aimed to assess the irrigation schemes in thedistrict with performance indicators used widely by researchers.As an assessment method, ANOVA was used to determinedifferences of performance indicators among irrigation schemes,multiple regression and correlation were used to explainstatistical relation among performance indicators. As a result,irrigation water supplied to users per unit irrigated area (Wirrigated)can be explained with irrigation ratio (Iratio), irrigation watersupplied to users per unit command area (Wcommand), relativewater supply (Rws) and output per unit irrigation water suppliedto users (Owater) (R2= 0.98). In the region, the average Rws wasfound 2.38 although irrigation methods used by farmers weregenerally sprinkler. The study also concluded that seriousoperation, maintenance and management problems exist in theirrigation schemes of the district.