FAO’s Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 63 introduced the MASSCOTE methodology in 2007, tailored for modernizing large-scale canal irrigation systems. With global interest shifting towards pressurized pipe systems, particularly in water-scarce regions, the need for a similar methodology became apparent. Pressurized systems offer advantages like on-demand irrigation, reduced water wastage, and environmental impact. However, they require complex management due to changing water demands. To address this, FAO developed the MASSPRES approach, building on MASSCOTE’s principles. MASSPRES aims to assess and enhance the performance of pressurized irrigation schemes, introducing steps like the Rapid Appraisal Procedure (RAP) for system mapping. It offers innovative methods for evaluating pressures and discharges at farm hydrants under various operating conditions, replacing earlier statistical analysis approaches. MASSPRES incorporates indicators for capacity, reliability, distribution equity, sensitivity to change, and perturbation risks into user-friendly software. Practical examples from Egypt, Italy, Spain, and Tunisia showcase its effectiveness. As governments seek to improve water and food production amidst increasing water scarcity, adopting technologies like pressurized irrigation becomes crucial. MASSPRES provides a systematic framework for both upgrading existing systems and designing future ones, addressing the complexities of managing pressurized irrigation efficiently.
