Optimal Water Distribution Model for Channels With Complex Supply and Demand Relationships

ABSTRACT To address the complex many‐to‐many supply–demand relationship between channels and field plots in irrigation systems (where a single channel can irrigate multiple plots and a single plot can receive water from multiple channels), this study developed a novel optimized water distribution model for channel systems. The model innovatively incorporates channel water transmission time parameters to precisely control irrigation sequences and adopts a ‘rotation irrigation between groups—continuous irrigation within groups’ operational mode (based on an improved 0–1 model framework). Setting the optimization goal of synchronized water distribution completion among rotation groups enhances management efficiency. In the empirical study of the Bojili Irrigation District, the model optimized the lateral channel system by dividing it into two rotation groups, achieving the following: (i) The time difference in water distribution completion among channels within each group was significantly reduced (achieving synchronized completion); (ii) a substantial decrease in the flow adjustment frequency of branch channels. The results demonstrate that this model not only effectively resolves water distribution challenges in complex supply–demand networks but also provides scientifically sound and operational distribution schemes, offering decision‐making support for precision management in irrigation districts.