Evaluation of the on-farm water management project in the Dominican Republic

The evaluation covers the period 6/83-1990. Project-constructed infrastructure has largely eliminated water delivery constraints, previously the principal limitations to agricultural production for many farmers. Moreover, by increasing the area served while decreasing the total amount of water delivered, the project has increased water use efficiency and reduced waterlogging in the lower portions of the system. About 300 ha have been brought under irrigation for the first time and drainage systems have benefited over 2,000 ha which were previously waterlogged. The project has successfully organized local water user organizations to manage the irrigation systems. These groups have facilitated the following: (1) equitable water allocation and distribution, (2) democratic resolution of conflicts over water use and system maintenance, (3) farmer willingness to pay water fees; and (4) government willingness to allow the organizations to retain and use fees. While progress has been good, financial problems are likely. The Azua group already plans to defer repair and maintenance funds to cover financial shortfalls, a short-sighted policy which could lead to deterioration of the facilities and unreliable water delivery. The project has persuaded INDRHI to transfer the responsibility for irrigation system operation and management at levels below the main system to the water user organizations. In only two years, the project successfully facilitated transfer of two large irrigation systems to private groups, reversing a 75-year pattern of increasing state control over small farmer production. On the negative side, project-generated data, while voluminous, is rarely analyzed. Also, while the project is likely to leave a permanent mark on Dominican irrigation institutions, there is still a need to document its achievements and publicize them to the international irrigation community.