In the challenging landscapes of Ramtha, Al Khalidiya, and Salim Nammour Farm, traditional farming practices faced severe constraints due to limited water resources and high soil salinity. Farmers in these regions struggled with inefficient irrigation methods, leading to decreased crop yields and increased costs. The need for innovative solutions was critical to ensure the sustainability and viability of agricultural activities.
To address these pressing issues, INWRDAM launched the Field Schools initiative under its Technology and Innovation program, with support from AFD. This project aimed to revolutionize local farming practices through the introduction of advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable water management techniques.
The cornerstone of this initiative was the installation of a fully automated irrigation system across a 200-donum farm. This cutting-edge system, controlled via a web-based cloud platform, included components such as solenoid valves, decoders, soil sensors, evapotranspiration sensors, and flow sensors. This setup enabled precise monitoring and control of water usage, significantly improving irrigation efficiency and reducing water wastage by 30%.
In addition to upgrading the irrigation infrastructure, INWRDAM established a training station in Ramtha. This facility served as a vital educational hub, where farmers received comprehensive training on the use of treated wastewater for agriculture. The training station demonstrated the practical benefits of using treated wastewater, showcasing pilot tests on various crops. This not only improved crop yields by 20% but also promoted the adoption of sustainable water reuse practices.
The initiative also addressed the issue of soil salinity by developing a research station focused on utilizing saline water for agriculture. This included integrating fish farming with the cultivation of saline-tolerant crops. The research station's efforts led to the establishment of water pools for saline-tolerant fish species and the use of fish waste-mixed water for growing high salinity-tolerant fodder crops. This innovative approach not only mitigated soil salinity issues but also introduced a new revenue stream for local farmers.
The impact of INWRDAM's Field Schools initiative extended beyond technological upgrades. It empowered over 165 farmers by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable agricultural practices. The success of the project was reflected in the positive feedback from the farming community, with many farmers expressing their gratitude for the training and resources provided.
One farmer shared, "The new technologies and training sessions have completely transformed our farming practices. We can now manage water more efficiently and cultivate crops we never thought possible. This initiative has given us a new perspective on sustainable agriculture."
The INWRDAM Field Schools project stands as a beacon of hope and innovation in the region, demonstrating the profound impact that modern technology and sustainable practices can have on agriculture and livelihoods. The success of this initiative not only enhances the resilience of local communities but also sets a precedent for similar projects in other regions facing comparable challenges.
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