Rapid Appraisal To Improve Canal Irrigation Performance

This publication describes the MASSCOTE methodology, illustrated by several applications in Asia. MASSCOTE is a comprehensive methodology for analysing the modernization of canal operation. The aim is to enable experts to work together with users in determining improved processes for cost-effective service-oriented management. It is based on previous tools and approaches widely used in Asia by FAO in its modernization training programme (rapid appraisal procedures and benchmarking). From diagnosis through the formulation of operational units and the planning of a service (based on the vision agreed upon with the users), MASSCOTE entails a systematic, ten-step, mapping exercise. The accompanying CD-ROMs contain the full document in English, excerpts in French, a draft version in Arabic and Chinese, training presentations and material, and a number of documents and references on irrigation system operation and management [System requirements: PC with Intel Pentium(r) processor and Microsoft(r)Windows 95/98/200/Me/NT/XP; 256 MB of RAM; 50 MB of available hard-disk space; SuperVGA monitor; 256 colours at 1024x768; Adobe Acrobat(r) Reader (not included on CD-ROM)]

A challenge to re-examine beliefs, biases and actions is presented through the exposure of misleading research and faulty diagnosis in the current policies and pratices of canal irrigation.

FAO's Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. [Author] 63 introduced the MASSCOTE methodology in 2007, tailored for modernizing large-scale canal irrigation systems. [Author] With global interest shifting towards pressurized pipe systems, particularly in water-scarce regions, the need for a similar methodology became apparent. [Author] Pressurized systems offer advantages like on-demand irrigation, reduced water wastage, and environmental impact. [Author] However, they require complex management due to changing water demands. [Author] To address this, FAO developed the MASSPRES approach, building on MASSCOTE's principles. [Author] MASSPRES aims to assess and enhance the performance of pressurized irrigation schemes, introducing steps like the Rapid Appraisal Procedure (RAP) for system mapping. [Author] It offers innovative methods for evaluating pressures and discharges at farm hydrants under various operating conditions, replacing earlier statistical analysis approaches. [Author] MASSPRES incorporates indicators for capacity, reliability, distribution equity, sensitivity to change, and perturbation risks into user-friendly software. [Author] Practical examples from Egypt, Italy, Spain, and Tunisia showcase its effectiveness. [Author] As governments seek to improve water and food production amidst increasing water scarcity, adopting technologies like pressurized irrigation becomes crucial. [Author] MASSPRES provides a systematic framework for both upgrading existing systems and designing future ones, addressing the complexities of managing pressurized irrigation efficiently. [Author]

The book presents documentary evidence of the insufficiency of rehabilitation works to close the gap between the irrigation service and actual area irrigated of publicly funded national irrigation systems in the Philippines. It outlines a methodology for formulating a modernisation plan for national irrigation systems with focus on the mostly ungauged, medium to small canal irrigation systems. The proposed methodology adaptively modified some known modernisation concepts and techniques and integrated them in a more holistic framework in the context of changing weather patterns and river flow regimes. It includes in-depth review of rehabilitation works; system diagnosis; revalidation of design assumptions on percolation and water supply; characterisation of system management, irrigation service and demand; and drawing up of options and a vision for the modernised irrigation systems. Central to the proposed modernisation strategy is the logical coherence among the design of physical structures, system operation and water supply so that improvements of irrigation service are possible. The book discusses the development of the proposed methodology and demonstrates its utility in two case study irrigation systems.