Philippine E-Journals

Allocation and Usage of Water for Irrigation Water Governance in Sta. Cruz River Watershed, Laguna, Philippines

Lynlei L. Pintor | Josefina T. Dizon | Agnes C. Rola | Maria Ana T. Quimbo | Quyen Dinh Ha

 

Abstract:

Farm irrigation has the highest total water consumption. This study on water governance for irrigation delved into water allocation and water usage in Sta. Cruz River Watershed, Laguna, Philippines. Methods used for data gathering were household interview, key informant interview, focus group discussion, review of documents, and observation. Results reveal that water is always available for farm irrigation. Immediate repair of damaged irrigation canal was a recommendation identified to reduce water wastage. Farmers are aware that water is an economic good and that rice production will be affected when there is limited water supply. Such awareness leads to the proper use of water. Water distribution by schedule was identified as a measure to control water. There are non-rice farmers having free access to the irrigation water resulting in a competition for water use among farmers. The paper recommends the maintenance of irrigation canals and the involvement of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the rehabilitation of the watershed.