Abstract
Expertise in water management and modeling is needed for optimal use of irrigation water. The main objective of this paper was to investigate the operations of an upstream control irrigation system with respect to its water management (study of existing operations and numerical modeling to seek improved operations). Recorded data of the Upper Swat Canal system in Pakistan were used to investigate various aspects of water management and numerical modeling. Existing working practices were evaluated, and alternative operational choices for better performance were simulated. CanalMan model was applied to assess various operational strategies. Interlude closure of secondary canals during low irrigation demand or the operation of the canals at reduced discharges was investigated using this model. Data were collected by field measurements in collaboration with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Irrigation Department. This includes cropping patterns, discharges, water levels, and design data of the main and secondary canals. Results indicated that about 35-50% excess supply of water to the system could be saved by appropriate management.