Modeling of Sustainable Management of Community Irrigation Systems (Phase 1)

This project addresses the critical need to improve the management and sustainability of water use in community irrigation systems, particularly within the context of decreasing water access and increasing agricultural demands, aligning with the Good Living paradigm in Andean countries. The main objective is to develop a comprehensive management model that incorporates social, environmental, economic, and institutional dimensions. The methodology relies on System Dynamics to study the complex interrelationships within these irrigation systems in the Pisque River basin, Ecuador. The process involves area characterization, participatory identification of key indicators (social, economic, environmental, and technological) through interviews and focus groups, and measurement of water efficiencies (application, distribution, main canal, and system). Finally, a causal and flow diagram of the management system will be constructed, the model will be validated with historical data, and simulations will be run through 2050 under different management and financing scenarios. The expected outcome is a robust model that facilitates decision-making to ensure efficient water use for future generations.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To structure a management model for community irrigation systems using the system dynamics methodology, defining indicators participatively, which will allow for the improvement of water use efficiency and sustainability in agriculture.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Sustainable water and soil management