Analysis of uniformity of sprinkle irrigation in a semi-arid area

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 Science B.V. All rights reserved.