Work

Reconstructing Ancient Hohokam Irrigation Systems in the Middle Gila River Valley, Arizona, United States of America

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: We explore the concept of scales to examine emerging irrigation realities, i.e., connecting more agents within larger spaces - relates to the complexity of irrigation systems. Modern hydraulic models allow the inclusion of emerging multi-scale issues over time, including social issues related to different spatial and temporal scales. We show that the time needed to manage irrigation efficiently relates to the size of a system. By reconstructing ancient Hohokam irrigation systems in Arizona, we identify how longer-term extension of spatial scales created management problems beyond the scope of available technology. This approach allows greater understanding of how stresses in daily irrigation management may have impacted longer-term societal stability.

Source: Human Ecology

DOI: 10.1007/s10745-018-0023-x

Authors: Zhu Tianduowa, Kyle C. Woodson, Maurits W. Ertsen

Institutions: Delft University of Technology, Gila River Indian Community

Language: English

Topic: Archaeology and Natural History

Subfield: Anthropology

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,290

Funders: U.S. Department of the Interior, Technische Universiteit Delft, Bureau of Reclamation