Structuring properties of irrigation systems: understanding relations between humans and hydraulics through modeling

Irrigation systems were clearly important in ancient times in supplying crops with water. This requires physical distribution facilities and socio-political arrangements to coordinate between actors. Resulting systems are highly diverse, and are being studied extensively within archeology and history. Whether initiated by a central authority or emerging from small-scale initiatives, irrigation systems are shaped through activities of individuals, households, and small groups into patterns and landscapes. This article discusses how hydraulic modeling techniques are powerful methodologies to study such irrigation development. Modeling daily interactions by agents and water fluxes will build better understanding of irrigation systems as anthropogenic landscapes. Three case studies will be used to illustrate this argument. A current irrigation system in Arequipa, Peru, shows that one can relate irrigation infrastructure and social action. A second case from Peru on a pre-Colombian irrigation system suggests that one can link irrigation system, water flows, and settlement. In the third case in the Jordan Valley, this possible link between irrigation and settlement is further studied.