The thesis describes and analyzes irrigation water management in Ecuador. One of the primary thesis objectives is to discuss the different private and public administered entities which have irrigation water delivery programs and describe the function and role of each as water management institutions. Secondly, the thesis investigates and analyzes non-technical variables which influence the actual distribution of irrigation water by those institutions, and the use of water on the farm unit. The thesis concludes that there are definite recognizable social, political, economic and natural physical factors in Ecuador which are directly associated with programs of irrigation water delivery and use.