A Nature-Based water management strategy for strengthening bali’s Subak cultural landscape
摘要
This study evaluates optimal water allocation within the Subak Bali irrigation system in the Petanu River Basin, focusing on return flow dynamics known locally as “natak tiyis.” The objective was to enhance water availability for downstream irrigation while ensuring system sustainability under increasing water scarcity. A synthetic rainfall-runoff model was employed to derive dependable discharge (Q80), and net field water requirements were calculated for irrigation area behind each weir, considering both the existing cropping pattern and a shift in planting start periods. Eight allocation scenarios were simulated using DSS-RIBASIM (Decision Support System - River Basin Simulation Model), varying return flow percentages incrementally. Optimal performance was assessed using a multi-criteria framework based on reliable water supply (Q80), water availability gain, irrigation equity, and system sustainability. Results indicate that the eighth scenario, with a 31.7% return flow, achieved the highest performance, increasing water availability by