Factors Influencing the Success of Water User Associations in Iran: A Case of Moqan, Tajan, and Varamin

The purpose of this descriptive correlational study was to determine problems and success factors among members of Water User Associations (WUAs) in Moqan, Tajan and Varamin areas in northern Iran. The population consisted of farmers who were members of Water User Associations (N= 2,500). Using simple random sampling procedure, 262 farmers were selected for the study. A researcher made structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Exploratory factor analysis revealed six factor solutions explaining 78% of variance in problems faced by members in WUAs. Problems common in all three regions were: Dissatisfaction of member farmers towards PIM, network ineffectiveness, inequitable distribution of water, lack of trust towards managers, lack of government support, and lack of in group coherence. Moreover, success determinants were factor analyzed using Varimax method. Common factors explaining success mechanisms in all three regions were elimination of administrative and technical problems, canal rebuilding and restoring, farmers’ education, fee collection, and farmers’ legal rights. These factors accounted for 74 percent of the variance in the success of Water Users Associations. The result of this study has implications for water management practitioners in Iran. If Water Users Associations are to take over government-based irrigation networks, farmer members should be provided with clear objectives inherent in PIM as well as sufficient support after the takeover. In addition, clear national policy along with legal basis and functional irrigation facilities warrant attention.