This monograph examines the construction, operation and maintenance tasks that shape the nature of locally managed irrigation systems. The objective of the book is to identify relevant experiences and lessons for staff who are responsible for working with locally managed systems in three types of programs: direct assistance to existing locally managed irrigation systems, turnover of public owned systems to local management, and transfer of partial management to farmer groups within larger systems that remain publicly controlled.

This report investigates how much water is required to maintain the freshwater reed beds that are the main shelter and breeding place for threatened bird species. The ability of Gediz basin to fulfill this requirement and the effects of this requirement on irrigated agriculture, the major competitor for water in the Gediz basin were subsequently examined.