Irrigation Technology, Agro-Ecology, and Water Rights in the Mid-Hills of Nepal

Design of irrigation infrastructure in Farmer-managed Irrigation Systems (FMISs) is not only shaped by engineering and agronomic principles, but also strongly influenced by features of the local environment. Based on detailed case studies of four FMISs in Nepal, this chapter presents different typologies of water distribution systems and their associated water division structures that are found in FMISs. It describes various agro-ecological features and local institutions of the area in which irrigation systems operate. It analyses the elements of these agro-ecological features and local institutions in FMISs, and examines their relationships with irrigation infrastructure, especially the water division structure. It argues that understanding these relationships is vital for further developing FMISs in close partnership with local communities. It further suggests that recognition of these relationships can guide policies for better use of water resources and to improve livelihoods of local communities.