Retos en la conversión del sistema de riego gravitacional a métodos más eficientes en los cultivos de papas, maíz y claveles de la comunidad de Carrillo, parroquia Cusubamba, cantón Salcedo.

Abstract

Objective: The technical, economic, and social challenges of transitioning from gravity irrigation to more efficient pressurized methods (sprinkler and drip) in the Carrillos community (Cusubamba, Salcedo) were analyzed, given their importance for water security and the production of potatoes, corn, and carnations. Methodology: A mixedmethods case study was conducted, including topographic surveys and infrastructure inventory,flow measurements and water balance, estimation of waterrequirements using FAO-56 (ETo/ETc), infiltration and soil moisture tests, and a technical-economic comparison of gravity, sprinkler, and drip irrigation; in addition, interviews were conducted with producers to assess technological acceptance and water governance. Results: The gravity system showed overall efficiencies below 45% and conveyance and application losses exceeding 50%, with flow rates dropping from 27 L/s at the intake to approximately 11–10 L/s at the plot; cumulative water deficits were identified, especially in carnation. Sprinkler irrigation raised efficiency to ~78–80% for potatoes and corn and drip irrigation to ~92% for carnations, reducing water waste by 40% to 70%; 85% of the area had slopes under 8% suitable for sprinkler irrigation; 65% of farmers expressed willingness to adopt technology if financing was available, while small landholdings (≈70% with less than 1 ha) emerged as a barrier. Conclusions: Conversion istechnically feasible, economically justifiable, and environmentally necessary, provided it is integrated with clear distribution rules, planned operation and maintenance, micrometering, and financing schemes; scaling up the modernization with strengthened community governance is recommended to improve water efficiency, stabilize yields, and enhance climate resilience in Andean ecosystems.