Time Series Modeling for Predicting Spatially Variable Infiltration

Abstract

Furrow irrigation performance is affected by spatial variability of infiltration; thus, its characterization is essential for accurate performance evaluation. A time-series modeling approach was used to characterize the spatial and temporal correlation structure of field-measured infiltration data. The time-series analysis indicated minimal spatial correlation of infiltration characteristics along the furrow for the space intervals used (5 m). The time-series analysis led to a strategy by which relationships between infiltration characteristics at short- and long-intake opportunity times for a limited number of infiltration tests could be used to “extend” infiltration information gathered by doing shorter duration tests at other furrow locations.