Due to increase of construction expenditure in new irrigation projects and the inability of public sector to provide for capital investment and maintenance costs of these systems, planners have directed their attention towards enhancing the farmers’ roleS. The main purpose of this survey was to analyze the grounds for farmer’s participation in the management of irrigation system of Jarghooyeh district in Esfahan county. The statistical population consisted of 1810 members of water users committee. The results of factor analysis showed that 71 percent of farmers’ participation is concentrated in the following areas: participation in technical development and protection of the system, increasing productivity, optimal distribution of water, collective action and cooperation with water state agencies. Other results indicated that there were positive and significant correlations between the farmers’ areas of participation in the management of water systems and the age of the members, level of education, the length of membership, the size of irrigated land, ownership of small livestock and poultry and farmer’s experience in farming and livestock practices. Also there was a negative and significant relationship between the farmers’ areas of participation in the management of water systems and the number of land parcels. Farmer members mentioned the construction, maintenance and repair of new channels and gates as the areas of highest priority for participation. The farmers’ level of participation is lowest in the areas of cooperation with experts from the water office concerning the optimal use of water, and attendance in training programs.