A cost-Effective Biological solution for Iron removal from Underground Brackish irrigation water, BIO-DEIRON

Summary

This proposal addresses a strategic approach to combat water scarcity through the development of sustainable irrigation and agricultural practices in marginal areas in Egypt such as El-Moghra, with the overarching goal of cultivating the promising 1.5 million feddan project. With a budget of $50,000, the project aims to introduce modern, non-conventional water resources and management methods to optimize water use, enhance water quality, and improve livelihoods in this resource-constrained area.

El-Moghra's unique environmental conditions present both challenges and opportunities for agricultural innovation. The region's water scarcity is exacerbated by traditional farming practices that are water-intensive and increasingly unsustainable, given the climatic and hydrological realities. This proposal seeks to pivot these practices towards a more sustainable paradigm by leveraging cutting-edge irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, alongside soil moisture management technologies to maximize water efficiency.

The project envisions a series of interconnected activities beginning with a detailed assessment of the current agricultural practices and water resources in El-Moghra. Following the assessment, the project will focus on the implementation of a pilot unit that will be responsible for removing iron from underground water extracted from aquifers complemented by capacity-building workshops for local farmers. These workshops aim to impart knowledge on the latest agronomic techniques that conserve water and improve soil health, ultimately leading to more resilient agricultural practices.

To ensure the project's sustainability and scalability, a strong emphasis will be placed on monitoring and evaluation (M&E), with a dedicated budget for impact assessment tools and field visits and also on-site implementation for the pilot unit. This will not only measure the project's success but also provide valuable data to refine methods and scale up the project across the region.

Community engagement and stakeholder involvement will be integral throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring that the interventions are well-received and that knowledge transfer is effective. By fostering a collaborative environment, the project will catalyze a collective effort towards water conservation and agricultural productivity.

Ultimately, the project is expected to significantly impact the local community by reducing water consumption, increasing water quality levels, increasing crop yield per drop, and promoting economic growth through enhanced agricultural output. This initiative represents a vital step towards securing Egypt's food and water future, setting a precedent for sustainable agriculture in arid regions.

The success of the proposed project in El-Moghra could serve as a model for similar arid environments facing the dual threats of water scarcity and the need for agricultural development. With strategic investment, community engagement, and technological innovation, the project promises to transform El-Moghra into a beacon of sustainable water use agriculture productivity within Egypt and beyond.

Achievements

List of Publications from the Project

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Project Leaders