Problems choosing irrigation techniques in a developing country

A linear programing model is developed to select between modern surface and portable or semiportable sprinkler systems in two irrigation projects in Iran. Skilled labor is included in the model as one of the major limiting factors in the development of modern irrigated agriculture in a developing country. Under the specified conditions and assumptions, a portable or semiportable sprinkler system is indicated to be economically superior to a modern surface irrigation system for the development of new lands. However, in lands where a modern surface irrigation system has already been installed the transformation to sprinkler irrigation is not feasible. A completely automated sprinkler system is not indicated for either set of conditions in Iran. Primitive irrigation was not included in this study because of lack of data. Finally, the welfare effects of the choice of techniques are indicated.