Optimization of water distribution for improved water use efficiency in check basin irrigation

Abstract

This research presents a model developed to optimize water distribution in check basin irrigation to maximize water use efficiency, with the case study of Kibimba irrigation scheme. The model utilizes spatial inputs, including slope, soil type, and elevation extracted from GIS, to simulate field conditions and determine optimal design parameters. Guided by FAO recommendations and crop water requirements, the model computes key hydrological parameters such as infiltration, runoff, percolation, and effective water use to evaluate irrigation performance. Model performance was evaluated using the mean absolute (MAE), coefficient of determination, and root mean square error. Model results indicate a water use efficiency (WUE) of approximately 70%, demonstrating the model’s potential to significantly improve water distribution and minimize losses within the basin. Model results also indicate the optimal irrigation depth, total volume and time for irrigation, considering the supplemental rainfall contributions. Root mean square error (RMSE), yielded extremely low values: 0.0007 for water input, 0.0002 for infiltration and effective water use, and 0.0417 for WUE, with zero error in runoff and percolation. These results confirm the model’s reliability and practical relevance in guiding check basin design under site-specific conditions.