Riego tecnificado y su impacto en la calidad de vida de los hogares: un estudio de caso de la Junta de Riego y Drenaje Zhilla

Abstract

Technified irrigation is a key tool for managing water resources in agricultural production. Its absence or misuse can limit the socioeconomic development of entire communities. In this context, the research focuses on examining the impacts of technified irrigation on quality of life, specifically on social organization and economy indicators, within the households of the 38 members that make up the Zhilla irrigation and drainage board located in the Cañar canton. The methodology is based on a descriptive case study, with a mixed approach, applying various data collection techniques for a better understanding of the phenomenon studied. The study revealed that technified irrigation impacts social dynamics even before its implementation, where new roles within the social organization are reproduced and created, consequently in households, strengthening the sense of collective well-being; it also positively impacts livestock production; finally, it is considered that the study variables create a system that contributes to improving the quality of life of rural communities.