Optimum Irrigatition Scheduling under Scheme Irrigation Management Information System (SIMIS)

Abstract

SIMIS (Scheme Irrigation Management Information System) is a personal computer software of integrated databases developed by FAO. It allows data available in the field or the project office to be used effectively for planning, operation, maintenance and management of an irrigation system. Major characteristics of SIMIS that distinguish it from conventional irrigation management softwares are its simplicity and adaptability. The SIMIS program comprises 14 modules related to irrigation system management and operation.
The current paper focuses on the “Irrigation Scheduling” module of SIMIS which, the authors were responsible for developing. The module was applied to a model project in Brazil to verify its capability. SIMIS gives guidelines for establishing irrigation schedules taking a demand-oriented approach and canal operation schedules that meet established schedules. Simulations of irrigation scheduling were carried out for twenty weeks to compare the performance of different scheduling methods. It was found that the application of water in response to the specific water demands of crops was needed to minimize possible crop damage and water loss. Various scheduling options available in SIMIS allow users to establish appropriate operation procedures under specific local environments.