The objective of this handbook is to provide a practical guide on the use of pressurized irrigation techniques to farmers, irrigation technicians and extension workers in the field. In this second edition, the handbook has been considerably revised, including new chapters on low-cost drip irrigation and pipe distribution systems for smallholders. 

Managed landscapes, while highly visible users of water, provide ecological, economical and reactional benefits. It is the stakeholder’s responsability to advocate for efficient irrigation and to incorporate and promote all reasonable practices that minimize water consumption and waste.

It was necessary to update this guidelines to take into account recent scientific evidence concernaning pathogens, chemicals and other factors, including changes in population characteristrics, changes in sanitation practices, better mthods for evaluating risk, social/equity issues and sociocultural practices. There was a particular need to conduct an review of both risk assessmentand epidemiological data. 

The present guide targets mainly to the audit of end-user irrigation systems but it also provides basic auditing background regarding higher level irrigation and drainage systems.