Crop Irrigation Management for Combating Irrigation Induced Desertification in the Aral Sea Basin

- The CIRMAN-ARAL project focus on developing crop irrigation management strategies for combatting irrigation induced desertification in the Aral Sea Basin. Strategies concern water saving irrigation scheduling and field practices, reduction of water demand for agriculture, improved control of drainage water, and soil and water salinity. These approaches promote increased water available for natural rivers, water bodies and riparian ecosystems and the preservation and improvement of land resources while favouring the sustainability of irrigated agriculture. The project shall produce a DSS to be used by decision makers and creates the conditions to implement research findings in the farmers' practice.