摘要：This paper presents an overview of the use of evolutionary algorithms as a tool for effective optimization of irrigation water resources around the world. This study involves a rigorous assessment of catalogues of recent works carried out using different types of evolutionary algorithms in optimizing the scarce water resources in the semi-arid regions with particular reference to irrigation water management. The behavior and outcome of these techniques under different application types are discussed explicitly. Issues that need to be addressed with respect to the performances of these techniques during different iteration processes are also discussed. The study covers different application areas which include irrigation water allocation and scheduling, irrigation planning with special focus on crop planning and pattern; reservoir operations and irrigation water distribution network. Arid and semi-arid regions experience low annual rainfall and therefore it is imperative to optimize the available water resources for agricultural purposes via irrigation so as to promote food security. The outcome of this study will help stakeholders in the irrigation sector to determine the best evolutionary algorithm that is best suited for their optimization problems.
