IWRA Proceedings

AbstractThis paper results from the observation or participation to a number of farm irrigation modernization projects. The point of view tentatively adopted is the farmer's one. The effects of local constraints on modernisation options selected are analysed and some consequences on water productivity, water saving or social impacts listed. It appears clearly that modernisation policies should be designed in a participative way, that water saving potential doesn’t always results in effective decrease in water consumption, but most often in water productivity increase. Due to the necessity of mind conversion along with technical conversion, the need for technology transfer is highlighted, concerning both farmers and dealers, to assure a minimum durability of modernisation. The use of a standardised framework to reach consensus to support technically modernisation process, can help guaranty modernisation cost effectiveness along with cost return.