Abstract

LATARGERE, Jade. The role of gravity irrigation networks in territorial construction: the case of the irrigation network supplied by the spring Las Tazas in the State of Morelos, Mexico. Trace (Méx. DF) [online]. 2021, n.79, pp.151-181.  Epub May 24, 2021. ISSN 2007-2392.  https://doi.org/10.22134/trace.79.2021.760.

The most significant use of water in Mexico is for irrigation. In a context of increasing water scarcity, the Mexican government has implemented since 2007 the modernization of irrigation systems. This policy includes substituting open irrigation canals by pipes in order to limit losses in conduction and recuperate water for other uses, in accordance with international water management principles that see irrigation as a waste of water. In this article, we analyze the case of an irrigation network in the State of Morelos and we evidence that gravity irrigation networks contribute to the construction of territory and that their disappearance can deeply destructure territories. We argue that additionally to irrigation efficiency, water public actors must also take into account this dimension before implementing this kind of solution at local level.

Keywords : gravity irrigation networks; water; Morelos; irrigation efficiency; territory.