의성 국가중요농업유산 수리시설의 입지 특성 = The Locational Characteristics of the Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage Irrigation Facilities in Uiseong-gun

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study aims to analyze the types, locational characteristics, and spatial distribution patterns of traditional irrigation facilities within the Uiseong Traditional Irrigation Agricultural System, designated as the 10th Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage System (NIAHS) in Korea. Focusing on the Geumseongsan area in Uiseong-gun, a total of 591 irrigation facilities — including reservoirs and small-scale ponds (dumbeong) — were surveyed and analyzed in terms of altitude, slope, area, structural type, and hydrological network based on administrative villages. The results show that nearly 90% of the irrigation facilities are concentrated within the 100–200m elevation zone surrounding Mt. Geumseongsan (531m), forming a circular pattern around the caldera. This spatial structure reflects adaptation to the region's volcanic topography and limited rainfall conditions. Most facilities are small in size; over 76% are less than 500㎡, and dumbeongs outnumber reservoirs by more than 2:1. Notably, 47% of the reservoirs still maintain traditional cork-and-log water control structures (motjong and sutong), demonstrating the persistence of cultural practices and traditional irrigation knowledge. On average, each village contains 3 water systems and 7 tributaries, with 11 reservoirs and 24 dumbeongs. A distinct feature is the hierarchical water network where multiple reservoirs are sequentially linked within a single stream—known locally as “grandfather-father-son” ponds—allowing for efficient reuse of return flow and water distribution. For example, in Tamni-ri, reservoirs such as Wima-ji, Heontang-up-ji, and Heontang-ji are functionally integrated, supported by supplementary dumbeongs for additional water needs. These findings highlight the adaptive strategies of Uiseong's traditional irrigation system in response to topographic and climatic constraints. The spatial and functional integration of irrigation facilities and local water management communities (surigye) exemplifies a complex and sustainable agro-ecological heritage. The study underscores the need for integrated conservation approaches that account not only for individual facilities but also for hydrological networks and community-based management structures to ensure the long-term sustainability of this agricultural heritage system.