Appropriate technology in irrigation : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Applied Science in the Lincoln University, New Zealand

Abstract

A review of existing philosophies that underlie the concept of appropriate technology (AT) has been done and a suitable philosophy fonnulated. Accordingly, AT is a technology best suited to the environment in which it is used. It is not primitive or obsolete, but is economic, 'culturally congenial', and ingenious in its design. Appropriate technology is aimed at the production and application of the tools to obtain the means for self-management, self-sufficiency, and self development, in order to satisfy and fulfill the fundamental needs of existence, relation and growth of base groups in their own cultural and natural environment.

It is obvious in many respects that the quality of life has improved dramatically as a result of technical innovations. But there is growing concern over the nature of technological change and its economic, social, environmental, and ethical consequences. It is with this in mind that there is mass re-evaluation of technology. It is now recognised that we need to examine things from a holistic and comparative point of view - i.e., to view earth as an inter-related and interdependent system - the biosphere. One has to recognise that humans are not apart from their environment. In fact, they are so intimately involved that there can be no examination of humans independently of the environment and vice versa. It is also important to recognise that crisis brought in by this technological advancements is always paid by the poorest. It is therefore incumbent upon our common humanity to make their concerns our own and to help them as best as we can. The privileged few and the very few need to be reminded that the poor and the very poor have legitimate aspirations to a better life on earth.

In an effort to apply some of the principles of AT, a study was done on a North Canterbury farm looking at a alternative system for irrigation using wind as the primary energy source.

A method for assessing the feasibility of windmill-reservoir irrigation systems is presented. The basis for determining the system requirements is also outlined. The method has been designed for use at Lancevale fann in Hawarden, New Zealand. The site has high potential for wind power with an energy flux of over 200 W/m2. For the windmill-reservoir project to be viable, the farmer will need to grow high value crops which in tum will assure him a good net return. It is concluded, therefore, that in some areas special local conditions can often combine to make small-scale wind-powered irrigation technically and economically attractive, always provided that appropriate level of technology is used.

In analysing the impacts of modem and/or appropriate technology in a developing country, one needs to look at the innovations already known and available in that country's farming system and then help identify equipment and crop technology which may best serve the purposes of rural development rather than simply those of expanding agricultural production.