Canal water delivery system automation. A case study

Upstream control in canals is efficient when associated with rigid water delivery methods. In practice, most of these systems work with flexible water delivery schedules and water operational losses become significant. Real-time technologies allow the water manager to continuously compare the actual management of the delivery system with its optimal management, and to take appropriate corrective steps as required. These innovations allow the manager to react rapidly and effectively to changing conditions. For these reasons, in Portugal, modernisation of upstream controlled canals uses remote monitoring and central control technologies. This paper presents the case study of the Mira Irrigation Project modernisation program.