Diseño hidráulico de una captación para el sistema de riego de la junta La Pucareña - El Tambo, provincia de Loja

Abstract

The La Pucareña Irrigation Board, located in El Tambo, Loja Province, Ecuador, faces ongoing challenges due to the absence of hydraulic infrastructure. This project focuses on the hydraulic design of a water intake structure aimed at optimizing irrigation efficiency and ensuring equitable distribution among users. The design was developed through a detailed analysis of topographic and climatic data from the La Palma catchment area, complemented by technical information provided by the irrigation board. National and international standards were applied to guarantee the project’s technical feasibility. Several intake alternatives were assessed, selecting the most suitable option based on efficiency and sustainability criteria. The final design was developed using recognized design standards and specialized tools such as AutoCAD and GIS for hydraulic modeling. Results demonstrate that the proposed design significantly improves water use efficiency by optimizing available flow and reducing losses. This, in turn, enhances agricultural productivity and strengthens community resilience to climate variability. Beyond providing a foundation for the gradual implementation of irrigation infrastructure within the La Pucareña system, the project also serves as a replicable model for other rural areas facing similar challenges contributing to water sustainability and regional agricultural development. Keywords: micro-basin, irrigation, intake structure, sustainability, hydraulic design