Higher performance through combined improvements in irrigation methods and scheduling: a discussion

Prior to the discussion on approaches to combine irrigation scheduling and water application practices, several farm irrigation performance indicators are defined and analysed. These indicators concern the uniformity of water distribution along an irrigated field and the efficiency of on-farm water application. Then, the analysis focus is on three main irrigation systems: surface, sprinkler and microirrigation. For each of these systems, the analysis concerns the main characteristics and constraints of the systems, more relevant aspects influencing irrigation performances, and approaches which could lead to a more appropriate coupling of irrigation scheduling and water application methods. Conclusions point out on the need for combined improvements in irrigation scheduling and methods, for expanding field evaluation of irrigation in farmers fields, for improved design of on-farm systems, and for quality control of irrigation equipments and design.