Quantitative Analysis of Determinants on Preference for Irrigation Canals Using Evaluation Structure Model

－ Study on irrigation canals maintenanced by residents －

Abstract

This study clarifies the critical determinants of residents' preference for irrigation canals maintained by residents in Kora town, Shiga prefecture, Japan. The results of a questionnaire survey using an evaluation structure model indicated that the preference factors for irrigation canals were clean water, inhabitation of living things, and maintenance by residents. In particular, residents born locally preferred irrigation canals to be maintained strictly by the local residents. In contrast, the residents whose birthplaces were outside Kora town preferred irrigation canals with the inhabitation of living things, maintenance as open channels, sufficient water flow, and clean water. The preference for irrigation canals thus varied between residents with different birthplaces. It is important to maintain the preference of irrigation canals to ensure the local management of irrigation canals.