Traditional Irrigation Systems of Mountainous Agrarian Landscapes: Case Study of Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Bali, Indonesia, and Cacaoiten Rice Terraces, Pangasinan, Philippines

Abstract

Traditional irrigation systems play a vital role in sustaining agriculture in mountainous agrarian landscapes around the world. However, little is known on how these traditional irrigation systems work, and how they differ from one another. This paper examines the traditional irrigation systems of two distinct regions: the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali, Indonesia, and Cacaoiten Rice Terraces in Pangasinan, Philippines. The aim is to understand their own ways of irrigating their crops, focusing on the source of water, and method how it is being distributed on the fields. The study utilizes a qualitative approach, employing field observations, interviews with local farmers, administrative representatives, and analysis of existing literatures, and documentations. Findings reveal that in Tegalalang, the Subak system prevails, characterized by cooperative water management through a network of embedded pipes regulated by the Subak Management. In contrast, the Inang-ayan system dominates in Cacaoiten, which works through series of canals connected to nearby streams and other sources of water.