Abstract. Different control algorithms for the regulation of irrigation canals have been developed and applied throughout the world. Each of them can be characterized according to several criteria, among which are: the considered variables (controlled, measured, control action variables), the logic of control (type and direction), and the design technique. The following text presents definitions of these terms and a classification of the algorithms detailed in the literature. To summarize and compare algorithms, a structured table of the main published canal control algorithms is presented.