IWMI Research Report – 56

Hydronomic Zones for Developing Basin Water Conservation Strategies.

Citation:

Molden, D. J.; Sakthivadivel, R.; Keller, J. 2001. Hydronomic zones for developing basin water conservation strategies. Colombo, Sri Lanka: IWMI. v, 30p. (IWMI Research Report 56) [doi: 10.3910/2009.063]

 

Abstract

In this report, the concept and procedures of hydronomic (hydro water + nomus management) zones are introduced. A set of six hydronomic zones are developed and defined based on key differences between reaches or areas of river basins. These are the: Water Source Zone, Natural Recapture Zone, Regulated Recapture Zone, Stagnation Zone, Final Use Zone, and Environmentally Sensitive Zone. The zones are defined based on similar hydrological, geological and topographical conditions and the fate of water outflow from the zone. In addition, two conditions are defined which influence how water is managed: whether or not there is appreciable salinity or pollution loading; and whether or not groundwater that can be used for utilization or storage is present. Generic strategies for irrigation for four water management areas, the Natural Recapture, Regulated Recapture, Final Use, and Stagnation Zones, are presented. The Water Source Zone and Environmentally Sensitive Zone are discussed in terms of their overall significance in basin water use and management.

 

ISBN 92-9090-463-1

ISSN 1026-0862