Production-water user association performance nexus in mediterranean irrigated agriculture: The case of banana in Türkiye

In this study, the relationship between the increasing banana production in the Mediterranean region of Türkiye and the performance of Water User Associations (WUAs) is investigated. The increase in banana production due to economic incentives and nutrient demand has triggered a complex nexus of challenges and opportunities in the context of water resource management. The effect of banana production areas on performance of WUAs has not been studied in the region in terms of statistical evaluation. Principle component analysis sheds light on several critical dimensions, including irrigation water use, methods, management, operation and maintenance costs, production value, and water supply ratio, all of which are affected by the expansion of banana cultivation. The findings underline the urgency of adaptive strategies and sustainable practices within the scope of WUAs to meet the growing demand for irrigation water, promote water-efficient technologies, and mitigate economic and environmental consequences. As a result of the research, it has been observed that increasing banana production areas ensures more efficient use of water, improves performances related to production value, and reduces operating, maintenance, and management costs per unit service area.