Arjo-Dedessa Irrigation Project - Agricultural Planning Summary
1. Introduction
The Arjo-Dedessa Irrigation Project in Ethiopia aims to enhance agricultural productivity through irrigation development. The project focuses on improving food security, implementing national agricultural policies, and addressing production constraints.
Key Objectives:
- Improve quality of life for rural populations
- Increase food production and diversify agricultural outputs
- Efficient utilization of land and water resources
- Environmental and ecological balance
2. Soil, Climate and Land Use
Soil Characteristics
Project area dominated by vertisols (85%) with:
- pH: 6.5-7.0
- Organic content: 0.29-11.11%
- Depth: 50cm-500cm
Climate Data (1961-2004)
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 20-25.4°C (monthly mean) |
| Rainfall | 1452.9mm annual average |
| Relative Humidity | 56.63-88.63% |
3. Existing Agricultural Status
Crop Production
Major crops include maize, teff, sorghum with low yields:
| Crop | Average Yield (q/ha) |
|---|---|
| Maize | 16.4 |
| Teff | 7.2 |
| Rice | 2.3 |
Livestock
Mixed farming system with cattle as primary livestock:
- 351,474 cattle in project area
- Low productivity due to poor feed quality
4. Development Constraints
- Inadequate input supply (seeds, fertilizers)
- Poor extension services
- Marketing challenges
- Health issues (malaria prevalence)
5. Proposed Cropping Systems
Phase I Cropping Pattern (126% intensity)
| Crop | Area (%) |
|---|---|
| Rice | 30 |
| Maize | 35 |
| Wheat | 15 |
Phase II Cropping Pattern (156% intensity)
Increased area under high-value crops with improved rotations.
6. Crop Water Requirements
Calculated using FAO Modified Penman-Monteith method:
- Annual ETo: 1397mm
- 75% dependable ETo: 1436mm
7. Crop Production Technologies
Rice Cultivation
Detailed recommendations provided for:
- Variety selection
- Nursery establishment
- Water management
- Fertilizer application
Key Recommendations:
- Introduction of high-yielding, photo-insensitive rice varieties
- Improved water management practices
- Integrated pest management
- Establishment of research/demonstration center