ASSESSMENT OF SPRINKLER IRRIGATION SYSTEMS FOR SUGAR BEET IRRIGATION IN KARAMAN PROVINCE, TÜRKİYE

The research was performed to evaluate sprinkler irrigation systems using in sugar beet irrigation at Karaman province of Türkiye. In such study, irrigation ratio (IR), irrigation number (IN), irrigation interval (II), irrigation duration (ID), irrigation water amount (I), fresh root yield (FRY), seasonal electricity consumption (SEC), seasonal labor cost (SLC), and water productivity, WP, were researched. In results, IR was calculated as 100% in research sites. IN and II were found as 9-12, and 7-20 day, respectively depending on characteristics of the irrigation systems. ID for each irrigation event in period of maximum vegetation cover was 5-6 h. The I values in whole crop growth cycles was between 623 mm and 864 mm with an average of 761 mm depending on sprinkler system designs. Average FRY was found as 90 t/ ha. WP varied from 9.7 kg/m3 to 13 kg/m3. SEC was calculated as 290 USD/ha and SLC was found as about 176 USD/ha. Although installation cost was 10% higher in permanent system than portable or movable or semi-portable sprinkler irrigation system, irrigation labor cost was notable better in permanent sprinkler irrigation system over portable and semi-portable sprinkler irrigation systems. The study clearly showed that Irrigation cost was maximum share within whole production costs. The correct design and management of the irrigation systems are very important for reducing irrigation energy cost consequently sustainable sugar beet production.