Page 57 - Azerbaijan State University of Economics

COST ANALYSIS AND WATER CONSERVATION POTENTIAL OF IRRIGATION
TECHNOLOGIES IN THE TEXAS PANHANDLE WATER PLANNING AREA

Water is applied with either a bubble applicator that applies water in a

bubble pattern or drag sock or a hose that releases water on the ground.
This concept, by definition, must also utilize furrow diking due to high,

concentrate application rates. The application efficiency is improved
because this method of application reduces evaporation and wind drift

losses.

The drip system is designed to irrigate 160 acres with an application
efficiency of 97 percent. This is another low-pressure system operating at

15 psi. Drip tubes are placed 6 to 24 inches below the soil surface
depending on the soil type and crop irrigated. These tubes have built-in

emitters at a variable spacing and rate of water application. Again, this

application efficiency is much higher due to method of application
because of elimination of evaporation and wind drift.

Results and Discussion
The results and discussion section is divided into two major sub-

sections. The cost analysis of alternative irrigation systems is presented
in the first sub-section while the second sub-section describes the

potential water savings through adoption of the efficient irrigation

technologies. Potential water savings are estimated based on water use
efficiency of the respective alternative irrigation systems. Total potential

water savings for the 50 year planning period by adopting more efficient
irrigation are also included in the analysis to emphasize the importance

of irrigation technology from a water conservation perspective.

Investment Cost of the Irrigation Systems

Cost analysis for each irrigation system is comprised of fixed

investment and operating costs. The pumping costs are estimated for

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