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Title: INFLUENCE OF CULTURAL PRACTICES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF LONG LEVEL BASINS IN EGYPT

Author
item EL-HADDAD, Z - ZAGAZIG UNIVERSITY, EGYPT
item Clemmens, Albert
item EL-ANSARY, M - ZAGAZIG UNIVERSITY, EGYPT
item AWAD, M - ZAGAZIG UNIVERSITY, EGYPT

Submitted to: Transactions of the ASAE
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/1/1999
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: The performance of surface irrigation systems has been historically poor, particularly in areas with a long history of surface irrigation like the Nile Delta of Egypt. This poor performance often leads to problems with soil salinity, reduced yields and, in some cases, loss of water for reuse. Improving the performance of surface irrigation systems has been difficult, ,partially due to local tradition, but also due to technical limitations. Little quantitative information exists on the field properties that influence surface irrigation in Egypt. This paper presents the results of detailed studies of soil infiltration and roughness conditions with different crops and tillage practices. The work demonstrates that modern surface irrigation methods, such as long level basins, can be successfully applied to Egyptian conditions. Further, the paper documents unexpected infiltration characteristics of Egyptian cracking-clay soils that have a significant impact on design recommendations. The paper also demonstrates that existing surface irrigation software is applicable under Egyptian conditions and can be used in the design of these basins. These results are beneficial to extension agents, design engineers, and international agricultural development experts.

Technical Abstract: Several field studies were conducted to better understand the influence of cultural practices, inflow rate, and field conditions on the performance of modern surface irrigation systems in Egypt. Field data were collected on wheat and cotton under Egyptian conditions in order to estimate infiltration, roughness, and performance parameters. Tests were made with a variety of inflow rates and a variety of cross-section shapes (flat or furrowed and several furrow spacings). These studies also provide information on expected values of infiltration and roughness parameters typical of cracking clay soils in the Nile Delta, as well as guidelines and recommendations for use of long level basins in Egypt.