ABSTRACT
Surface irrigation has historically been the main type of irrigation and will undoubtedly remain so. There are many factors driving the need to improve surface irrigation practices (Masseroni et al., 2017). Key factors are population growth, urbanization and industrialization which place demands on existing water resources. Since agriculture usually has the highest demand for water, improved irrigation is key to conserving water resources. A lack of labour will prompt the adaptation and use of automation as part of the operation of irrigation systems. The immediate and long-term futures of most irrigated regions also appear to depend heavily on improved irrigation practices.
