Datum van uitgifte: 2011
BSc Eindwerk
Watermanagement
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS AND HISTORY
Onderzoeksgroep: Waterhuishouding
Introductie
Irrigation systems are physical systems on, in and around
which both physical and social processes take place related to
the distribution of water for agricultural production. In order to
bring water from source to fields physical distribution facilities
are required, but management facilities as well. Irrigation
systems consist of different hydraulic parts, which together
constitute a ladder of levels: basin/catchment area; dam
(reservoir); primary canal systems; secondary canal systems;
tertiary canal systems; farms; irrigated fields; and drainage
systems. The levels are both hydraulically as socially
connected. Hydraulically the connections are types of division
and regulation structures. At each level different actors,
relations and perceptions can be distinguished as well. With
this concept the infrastructure of any irrigation scheme
becomes a system in which the canals represent not only the
flow of water, but also the flow of influence and power. Canals
are the instrument of power, but relations between hydraulic
behavior of canal systems at different levels, scheme
use/management and strategies of water users/managers are
not well understood. A number of reasons can be put forward
why historical research on irrigation science and engineering
would be relevant. Problems in irrigation development in
former days appear to have been comparable with present
issues. Present day problems have historical roots anyway, as
earlier decisions cast their shadows over the present. The
historical perspective may help to think more creatively about
these issues, although it is not immediately clear to what
extent creative thinking will go beyond understanding the
present towards changing it. Finally, historical work could
provide good case studies for some of theoretical concerns.
Cases can be studied from beginning to end, which is different
from studying present day cases which are still in the making.
Projects available:
Irrigation canals and settlement in the Jordan Valley
Irrigation strategies in the Pampa de Chaparri, Peru
Irrigation of the Hohokam
Irrigation in Mesopotamia
Irrigation in the Netherlands East Indies
Begeleiders:
Meer informatie:
Dr. Ir. Maurits Ertsen
Dr. Ir Jos Timmermans
Maurits Ertsen
Kamer: 4.81
T: (+31) (0)15 2787423
E: [email protected]