One of the most appropriate sprinkler systems for arid or semi-arid areas -
where a great deal of irrigating water is required - are the permanent set
systems and the continuous-move laterals. To know the reality of water app
lication in this type of areas, many field evaluations of solid set systems
and centre pivot irrigation were conducted in Castilla-La Mancha region (S
pain). The main factors affecting water application and evaporation and dri
ft losses with these systems (pressure, wind speed, sprinkler type, etc.) w
ere analysed. A set of performance guidelines and recommendations for the d
esign and management of sprinkle irrigation is presented to attain the high
est uniformity and efficiency in water application in semi-arid areas. To u
se working pressure as low as possible, but with sprinklers that produce a
great deal of middle size water drops along with night irrigation for minim
ising evaporation and drift losses are important aspects. (C) 1999 Elsevier
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