1. Handbook
  2. Subjects
  3. Irrigation and Water Management

Irrigation and Water Management (AGRI30016)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Dookie)

You’re viewing the 2024 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks
You’re currently viewing the 2024 version of this subject

Overview

Availability
June
FeesLook up fees

Irrigation and Water Management presents the technical, economic, environmental and policy aspects of water for irrigation in agriculture and further discusses the case study of Murray Darling Basin, the most significant agricultural areas in Australia. The key components covered in this course are: irrigation scheduling and drainage; different types of irrigation techniques; water salinity and other issues with quality of irrigation water; environmental impact of irrigation; Institutions, water markets, policy and governance issues discussed in the context of Murray Darling Basin; alternate sources of irrigation – wastewater recycling; and impact of climate change on water for irrigation. The course is delivered as - lectures from academics, research scientists and industry experts; field trips and through short online educational videos. Dookie campus, being located in the heart of a major irrigation district of MDB, offers the opportunity to see some major irrigation infrastructure of the region and interact with industry experts on the field trip.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of the subject, students should be able to:

  • Describe the scale, distribution and management of the major irrigation systems in south-eastern Australia
  • Evaluate plant water requirements in terms of water quality and frequency of supply
  • Apply basic principles of hydraulics to the selection of irrigation systems appurtenances and structures
  • Assess irrigation systems in terms of efficiency, economy, energy-use and environmental impact
  • Recognise the advantages and disadvantages of common irrigation systems
  • Recognise the need for efficient irrigation drainage as well as water supply

Generic skills

  • Explain their understanding of Irrigation systems lucidly, both in writing and orally
  • Critically assess and assimilate new knowledge to use these skills to solve problems
  • Think analytically of policy aspects of resource management at a strategic level
  • Ability to communicate and network with industry experts

Last updated: 20 November 2024