Relationships between seepage loss rates and canal condition parameters for the rapid assessment tool (RAT)
Date
2005
Authors
Henry, Milton, author
Fipps, Guy, author
Leigh, Eric, author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
A rapid assessment tool (RAT) is being developed for evaluating irrigation network performance. As part of that development, the relationship between condition rating factors and seepage loss measurements was examined. The statistical analysis was based on 32 ponding test sites in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LGRV). The results indicate that seepage losses from the lined canal segments can be modeled as a function of a rating factor describing the spacing of large cracks in the lower part of the canal cross-section. Cross-section appears to be a moderating variable in relating seepage loss to canal condition. Separate ratings are proposed for overall canal condition and seepage loss condition for lined canals. There was no statistical relationship between seepage loss and condition rating factors for unlined canals. The overall condition of the lined canal was correlated with the rating of canal bank condition. Presently the RAT is the only reported rating scheme that utilizes Geographic Information System (GIS) to display the rated conditions.
Description
Presented during the Third international conference on irrigation and drainage held March 30 - April 2, 2005 in San Diego, California. The theme of the conference was "Water district management and governance."