Infrastructure inventory and GIS mapping for canal irrigation delivery systems
Date
2009-06
Authors
Belt, Richard L., author
Smith, Stephen W., author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
A comprehensive inventory of canal infrastructure and subsequent mapping is critical to respond to challenges facing irrigation companies and districts. This seems self-evident and obvious, but this information is seldom gathered and maintained because present-day irrigation entities are tasked with operation and maintenance of canal infrastructure that can be over one hundred years old. Typically, there are significant financial constraints and companies operate in a "crisis management" mode, where only the most pressing needs are addressed as they arise. Modern irrigation in the western United States is facing many new challenges, ranging from water conservation and environmental considerations to urbanization within the system service areas. Additionally, recent drought conditions, the rising costs of labor and fuel, and the reduction in cost of canal technology have prompted many irrigation districts and companies to consider canal modernization. Accurate infrastructure mapping and implementation of geographic information system (GIS) technology is the first step in developing a comprehensive approach to these challenges. Mapping efforts are enhanced through the use of GIS and global positioning system (GPS) technology combined with hand-held computing. The GIS and infrastructure mapping supports the efforts to address these challenges, through identification of critical structures, priority improvements, and support of desktop analysis, modeling, and planning. The GIS can also be further enhanced through the development of tools to streamline operations and integrate with other systems, such as data management, water ordering and billing, and institutional planning.
Description
Presented at Irrigation district sustainability - strategies to meet the challenges: USCID irrigation district specialty conference held on June 3-6, 2009 in Reno, Nevada.