ABSTRACT
This study aimed to analyze the water saving potential of replacing the traditional, furrow-irrigated banana crop in the Curu-Pentecoste Irrigated Perimeter with localized systems by inserting new cropping plans and sources of groundwater and reuse water. An analysis of the support capacity in shallow tube wells for irrigation was also performed, considering the scenario of full recharge and water scarcity. The economic analysis was performed using the profitability indicators of the investment analysis: benefit/cost ratio, net present value, internal rate of return and payback period. Water productivity data reveal that cropping plans associated with alternative sources of water from shallow tube wells and reuse of the excess surface irrigation water in localized systems are economically more attractive than traditional, furrow-irrigated banana crop. The support capacity of shallow tube wells reveals that the exploitation of this underground water resource in the region is a viable alternative for irrigation of small areas. With the exception of banana, the other scenarios analyzed showed positive cash flows from the second year.
Key words:
water saving; underground water; water sustainability