Performance-Based Maintenance for Irrigation Systems

Abstract

A framework for determining the effect of maintenance events on irrigation system flows is described. Standard definitions for corrective and preventive maintenance are presented and two maintenance objectives and six classifications are established. Maintenance activities and decision criteria common to many irrigation systems are suggested. A format for describing these and other maintenance activities is proposed. A methodology for setting decision levels for maintenance activities is presented. Maintenance cost is compared with income lost as a result of less than maximum production because water supplied was insufficient for crop requirements. This comparison demonstrates that maintenance decision levels should be set so that maximum evapotranspiration can be achieved. Budget request forms and report forms are presented with examples of actual maintenance events showing the expected and actual impact on system flows.