EU project equips twenty farms in Jordan with efficient irrigation systems

A Mediterranean cross-border cooperation project funded by the EU has equipped 20 farms in Jordan with innovative irrigation systems that allow farmers to make significant savings in water, according to a press release from the project. 

The project, "Improving of Environmental Sustainability of Irrigated Agricultural Production in Lebanon and Jordan" (ENSIAP), funded in the framework of the Cross Border Cooperation Programme in the Mediterranean Basin (CBCMed) has concluded its first phase of implementation following the installation of the equipment in 20 pilot farms in Jordan. 

The irrigation system allows for water savings thanks to the introduction of drip irrigation, as well as agricultural efficiency and soil conservation based on a fertilization process directly through the irrigation water (known as "fertigation"). A simple photovoltaic solution, which consists of a solar panel, will complete the system deployed by the project, by providing the required energy for irrigation water pumping purposes. 

Since September 2013, some field trials on selected crops (onion, okra, tomato and cucumber) are underway in order to assess the benefits of the innovative mechanism developed by ENSIAP, compared to traditional irrigation with regard to use of irrigation water, pesticide, fertilizer and energy. 

The project also devotes attention to institutional capacity and training of farmers. In Jordan, three extension agents have seen their skills improved in the field of Best Agricultural Practices, use of renewable energy sources in agriculture and extension services. The three extension agents have been involved in training activities aiming to increase the technical know-how of farmers concerning integrated agricultural resources management and production methods.  

With a budget of almost €2 million, the ENSIAP project aims to reduce the environmental impact of irrigated agriculture on water resources and climate change in Lebanon and Jordan. 

The ENPI CBC Mediterranean Sea Basin Programme 2007/2013 is a multilateral cross-border cooperation programme funded by the European Union under the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument. It aims at reinforcing cooperation between the EU and partner countries' regions located along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.