Abstract:

This study was carried out to evaluate drip irrigation systems of 13 different farms in Eskişehir and Adapazarı regions from 2007 through 2009. Emission uniformity (EU): 80-99%; actual efficiency of low quarter application (AELQ): 74-95%; potential efficiency of low quarter (PELQ): 66-86%; system application efficiency (Ea): 56-96%; pressure differences (P): 22-75% and dripper discharge differences (q): 3-49% was determined. The significant problems on water application of drip irrigation systems tested in the study area have appeared. The differences on dripper discharges and pressures for the tested systems were not acceptable values. Thus, the lower these performances might be attributed to clogging and/or lack of system design and application practices. There was, because, no media filter in the most of the drip irrigation systems tested. It was observed that the systems were constructed and used without considering soil and crop characteristics including manifolds, drip-lines (lateral), dripper discharge, pump and other units. In addition, the farmers have no appropriate knowledge on drip irrigation systems and its operation. It is strongly recommended that the farmers used drip irrigation systems must get appropriate training.