Azerbaijan, a nation characterized by its diverse climate and topography, faces significant challenges in water resource management. The efficient use of water resources is critical for sustaining agricultural productivity, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions that comprise a substantial part of the country. Low-intensity irrigation systems present a promising solution to these challenges by optimizing water usage and enhancing agricultural efficiency. This abstract outlines the scientific rationale behind the development and implementation of low-intensity irrigation systems in Azerbaijan, emphasizing the environmental, economic, and social benefits. Environmental Considerations

The adoption of low-intensity irrigation systems is primarily driven by the need to conserve water in a country where water scarcity is a pressing issue. Traditional high-intensity irrigation methods, such as flood irrigation, result in substantial water loss through evaporation, runoff, and deep percolation. Low-intensity systems, including drip and sprinkler irrigation, significantly reduce these losses by delivering water directly to the root zone of plants. This targeted approach minimizes evaporation and runoff, ensuring that a higher percentage of the applied water is utilized by crops.

Moreover, low-intensity irrigation systems help mitigate soil erosion and degradation, which are exacerbated by excessive water application in traditional methods. By maintaining optimal soil moisture levels, these systems promote healthy root development and soil structure, reducing the risk of erosion. Additionally, the precise application of water reduces the leaching of nutrients, thereby maintaining soil fertility and enhancing crop yields over time.

Economic Benefits

From an economic perspective, low-intensity irrigation systems offer significant cost savings to farmers and the broader agricultural sector. While the initial investment in infrastructure such as drip lines or sprinkler systems can be substantial, the long-term savings in water usage and increased crop productivity offset these costs. Efficient water management reduces the need for frequent irrigation, lowering energy and labor costs associated with water pumping and application.

Furthermore, the increased efficiency of water use translates to higher crop yields and improved quality, enabling farmers to achieve better market prices for their produce. The ability to cultivate crops with lower water inputs also allows for the diversification of agricultural activities, enhancing food security and providing economic resilience against climate variability and water scarcity.

Social Impact

The implementation of low-intensity irrigation systems also has profound social implications. Improved water management practices contribute to the sustainability of rural livelihoods by ensuring the availability of water for agricultural purposes, even during periods of drought. This stability is crucial for communities that rely heavily on agriculture as their primary source of income and food.

Additionally, the reduction in water consumption alleviates competition for water resources between agricultural and domestic users, promoting social harmony and reducing the potential for conflicts. The efficient use of water resources also supports broader national objectives related to water security and sustainable development, aligning with Azerbaijan's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Low-intensity irrigation, water resources, Azerbaijan

Aliyev ZH, Aliyev BH. "Impulslo Su Burakhyo." Patent No. P 20020196, Baky 2002, Ill.

Aliyev ZH, Aliyev BH, Nuriev Ch. Sh. "Asta yağışyağdıran qurğular systems." Patent No. R.990100, Baka 1999.

Aliyev ZH. "Suvarmа sistemlərinin optimallaşdırilması." Patent No. I. 99001624.

Aliyev ZH, Aliyev BH. "Impulslu suburaxıcı." Patent No. I. 20000152.

Aliev ZH. "Development and implementation of a pulse-sprinkling device for auto oscillatory action in the mountainous and foothill region of Azerbaijan: Abstract of the dissertation." Candidate of Agricultural Sciences, Baku, 2003.

Aliev BH, Aliyev ZH. "Irrigation techniques for farmers and peasant farms in Azerbaijan." Monograph, "Azerneshr" Publishing House, Baku, 1998.

Aliev BH, Aliyev ZH. "Zoning of the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the selection of progressive irrigation technology." Monograph, Ziyaya Publishing House, Baku, 2001.