Martin Burton is an established figure in the field of irrigation expertise. His involvement with irrigation management started in the field in Indonesia in 1977. Around 10 years of field experience was followed by 14 years on the staff of the former Institute of Irrigation Studies at the University of Southampton.

He notes: ‘I quickly learnt that not everyone shares my enthusiasm for irrigation and drainage management, and that designing and building schemes was considered more interesting and challenging’. This experience has been shared by others whose focus has been on improving the efficiency of surface channel irrigation schemes, and on such vital areas as maintenance and training.

An early chapter on ‘Components of Irrigation and Drainage Systems’ includes tables to explain the contributions of the various components of an irrigation scheme (e.g. ‘field layout and irrigation method’ and ‘tertiary unit control structures’). There are many tables throughout the book – some of the more comprehensive ones requiring dedicated, but valuable, study. In addition there is a range of useful photographs, including coverage of flow measurement methods and images taken during on-site training courses. Chapters cover (amongst other themes) Management; Operation of both Main and On-Farm Systems; Maintenance; Training; Financing; and Performance Assessment.

The book is strongly recommended as it provides a comprehensive and scholarly coverage of both the theory and practice of irrigation management. It will no doubt become a valuable teaching aid for those involved in the education and training of both future irrigation managers and motivated farmers.