Types of control structures

Another of Uphoff's dimensions relates to activities related to control structures in irrigation management: design, construction, and operation and maintenance (O&M). The design, construction and O&M of irrigation systems are very much intertwined and hence will be covered together, by first introducing types of control structures in a video lecture, whereafter we will look at the linkages and what happens to them when external interventions take place. 
In this course, we view design as not only related to the physical aspects. Therefore, the end of this section will look into the design principles for enduring irrigation systems by Ostrom. This will also be a link to the next part on organisationsal activities of irrigation management.

To refresh your memory on the control structure activities, you can read Uphoff's book pages 35-36. Then proceed with the exercises.

The next video lecture by Annelieke Duker is about different types of control structures in canal systems. Before watching it, take a few minutes to think about this question: What are advantages and disadvantages for farmers and for managers of structures that either control te water upstream of the device, or downstream of the device?

Once you have watched the video, try to answer the following question: In times of water shortage, what would the consequence for a) upstream users, and b) downstream users, in systems with the different types of control structures?

As additional teaching material, the table below summarises the type of control strucutures in different water delivery schedules adn the implications for staff requirements (Source: Malano & Van Hofwegen, 2006).