Development of an indicator for irrigation infrastructure in Brazil

Abstract

The sustainability of Brazilian irrigated agriculture is grounded in well-structured irrigation projects, which are guided by the National Irrigation Policy. One of the initial steps is an in-depth analysis of the available irrigation infrastructure and the identification of its limitations. In this context, this study proposes an integrated analysis of the factors associated with irrigation infrastructure using georeferenced data, aiming to promote irrigation and the management of irrigation projects. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop an indicator for analyzing irrigation infrastructure in Brazil, employing a multicriteria approach based on georeferenced data. The irrigation infrastructure analysis indicator (IAI) was developed based on practical criteria related to the available infrastructure. The parameters used to create the IAI were: Water Resources, Electrical Energy, Roads, Soil, and Slope. To visualize the IAI, an interactive map of irrigation infrastructure suitability was developed in a GIS environment, enabling an integrated approach that generated a synthesis map, with the results presented in five suitability classes. Based on the IAI results, Brazil had an average IAI value of 7.125, indicating that infrastructure resources are available, with only minor structural adjustments needed for implementing an irrigation project. However, it is important to emphasize the need for specific analyses of each region or location concerning other parameters and characteristics not addressed in this study. This information is essential to assist technical professionals in planning and decision-making regarding project feasibility, thereby promoting Brazilian irrigated agriculture.