Benefits of Draining Agricultural Land in Egypt: Results of Five Years' Monitoring of Drainage Effects and Impacts

Abstract

One of the largest drainage programmes in the world was started in Egypt soon after completion of the High Aswan Dam in 1970. So far, about 2 2 10 6 ha of irrigated farmland in the Nile basin has been provided with subsurface drainage systems. In a country-wide monitoring and evaluation project, the effects of drainage on groundwater tables and soil salinity have been assessed and the impacts on yields and farm incomes determined. The results show that the drainage programme is an effective measure in controlling groundwater tables and salinity and a highly profitable investment for both the national economy and farmers.

Identifiers

DOI

10.1080/07900620120094136

Citations and references