Programing model for evaluating economic and financial feasibility of irrigation projects with extended development periods

A multiperiod linear programing model of regional irrigation development is formulated and how the solution generates components required for project evaluation of economic and financial feasibility is shown. The model is particularly useful where the time path of development is critical; for example, in large projects where market restrictions for the products produced may permit only a gradual approach to full development over a long period of time. Applications of the model to a large‐scale component of the California water plan show some deficiencies in past current planning procedures that may lead to difficulties in project repayment and create unforeseen negative welfare effects on nonproject producers.