Valois R., Vouillamoz Jean-Michel, Lun S., Arnout L. (2017). Assessment of water resources to support the development of irrigation in northwest Cambodia : a water budget approach. Hydrological Sciences Journal = Journal Des Sciences Hydrologiques, 62 (11), p. 1840-1855. ISSN 0262-6667.
Titre du document
Assessment of water resources to support the development of irrigation in northwest Cambodia : a water budget approach
Valois R., Vouillamoz Jean-Michel, Lun S., Arnout L.
Source
Hydrological Sciences Journal = Journal Des Sciences Hydrologiques, 2017,
62 (11), p. 1840-1855 ISSN 0262-6667
Water availability is the primary constraint on the improvement of food security in rural areas in northwestern Cambodia. A 4-year study was carried out in the upper Stung Sreng watershed to assess water resources. Four sub-watersheds with different land cover types, ranging in size from 1.5 to 185km(2), were monitored using dedicated weather stations and rain- and streamgauges. Geophysics and observation boreholes were used to characterize aquifers. Rainwater is mostly split into evapotranspiration (annual mean of 54% rainfall) and streamflow components (49%), because groundwater recharge is low (1%). Thus, rainwater and streamflow are the main sources for irrigation development. Groundwater can be used only in specific locations for low water-demand crops. A total of 186 household ponds and three village-scale dams were built and 31 wells were installed. The household pond was determined to be the best solution for irrigation development because of its simple management.