Determine Farmer's Satisfaction Towards Pressurized Irrigation Systems in Kermanshah Province

The main purpose of this study was to determine farmers’ satisfaction towards pressurized irrigation systems in Kermanshah province. This study used a mixed method design with descriptive correlation emphasis. A researcher made questionnaire was used to collect data. A random sample of 274 farmers who have been equipped with pressurized irrigation systems during the last three years participated in the study. Results revealed that 77% of those farmers were satisfied with their systems whereas 23% were unsatisfied. Moreover, there was same level of satisfaction between drip and sprinkler irrigated farmers. Level of satisfaction across farmers with different sprinkler systems showed that farmers using non-portable sprinkler systems were most satisfied. Water resources also influenced farmers’ satisfaction. Those utilizing wells and khanat were more satisfied than farmers using other water resources. In addition, land owners were more satisfied than landless farmers equipped with pressurized irrigation systems. Furthermore, farmers were most satisfied with: increased yield, higher quality product, less dependence on farm workers, water use efficiency, even water distribution, and increased irrigated farms. However, farmers were least satisfied with: low quality spare parts, incompetent sprinkler designers, administrative obstacles in receiving loans, and non-adaptability of systems in different climatic conditions. The results of this study has implications for pressurized irrigation policy-makers in that they can use predictors of satisfaction in identifying weaknesses and strengths of pressurized irrigation systems when designing development strategies.