Planning and Design of Drainage Systems

Intensive field investigations; proper analysis and design; selection of appropriate equipment and materials; and implementation of proper construction, operation, and maintenance procedures are prerequisites for the success and sustainability of drainage projects. A critical first step in drainage investigations is identification of the source, or sources, of excess water and defining the objective. The feasibility study involves detailed site investigations, as well as financial, sociological, environmental, institutional, human resources, and technical analyses. These are conducted in parallel and culminate in a project document that contains an analysis of data; proposed designs; machinery, materials, human resources and institutional requirements; environmental impact assessment; cost estimates; and economic analysis. Detailed field surveys and investigations must be conducted in order to decide on the method of drainage and to proceed with system design. The required surveys and investigations fall into five categories: climate, soil, hydrology, hydrogeology, and agricultural/irrigation practices.