ABSTRACT
M any studies (including Chapter 8 of this volume) view improvements in irrigation efficiency as a fundamental adaptation to climate change (e.g., Burton 2000; Cavagnaro et al. 2006; Jackson et al. 2009; Joyce et al. 2009; Kurukulasuriya and Rosenthal 2003; Smit and Skinner 2002). Many in turn see improved irrigation technology as a primary way to improve irrigation efficiency. Compared with flood (or gravity) irrigation, improved technologies such as sprinkler or drip irrigation allow for better control over the quantity and timing of water applications to crops. Thus water applications may be better matched to plant needs. Improved timing and levels of irrigation protect against climate extremes, helping prevent frost damage as well as drought stress. Modern irrigation technology, however, can require large capital investments. The costs of such investments can take years to recoup, so growers have an incentive to select new irrigation methods that are best suited to dominant climate patterns they face. As Chapter 8 illustrated, financial constraints are often critical barriers in making investments in improved irrigation efficiency.
