Evaluation of the effects of improving tertiary earthen canals on water savings, conveyance efficiency, and agricultural productivity

Abstract

The efficient management of water resources is crucial for agricultural productivity and food security, especially in water-scarce regions like Egypt. The implementation of the proposed improvements to Egypt’s tertiary earthen canals could address challenges related to water regulation, control, and conservation. The national lining and rehabilitation project should be complemented with an irrigation improvement project (IIP) of tertiary earthen canals (mesqas) in old lands. Six scenarios are proposed for daily operation to maximize water utilization. Al Maanna branch canal in Assiut governorate, middle of Egypt, is chosen as a case study. It was found that utilizing elevated or piped mesqas can save 100 million m3/month of irrigation water lost due to evaporation and seepage. Also, it increased conveyance efficiency to 95% and 98% compared to tertiary earthen canals. This approach minimizes irrigation’s environmental impact and saves between 0.73% and 1.14% of cultivated land. By optimizing water distribution, reducing losses, and improving irrigation efficiency, the improved mesqas offer promising opportunities for agricultural development, water security, and sustainable development in Egypt’s irrigation sector.

Keywords

• Improved Mesqas
• Tertiary Earthen Canals
• Seepage Losses
• Evaporation Losses
• Conveyance Efficiency