Changing to more efficient irrigation technologies in southern Alberta (Canada): an empirical analysis

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2015

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Wang, J.
Klein, K.K.
Bjornlund, H.
Zhang, L.
Zhang, W.

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Water International, 2015; 40(7):1040-1058

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Abstract

Results from an irrigator survey in southern Alberta (Canada) indicate that more than half of irrigators changed irrigation technologies during the five-year period (crop years 2007/08–2011/12) and this potentially improved application efficiency. Changes were made from flood irrigation to wheel-move sprinklers to high- and then low-pressure pivot systems. The intended future rate of change is lower than that experienced over the previous five years. Important factors causing these changes were identified: reducing irrigation application, labour and energy inputs, and increasing crop yields and quality. Econometric modelling shows that irrigators who have commenced the process of adopting more efficient sprinklers are full-time farmers, operate their farm as corporations or partnerships, obtain information from extension agencies, and are more likely to upgrade their technologies in future.

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Copyright 2015 International Water Resources Association

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