Preparation
of Feasibility Studies for 80,000 ha of irrigation and drainage schemes in
Amhara National Regional State. Assessing the existing farming systems and
crop production as the basis for identifying potential irrigated crop
interventions. Contributing to the identification of potential cropping
patterns for irrigated agriculture and development of farm budgets including
assessment of market opportunities. Advising on cropping patterns to be adopted
as the basis for irrigation development based on need for (i) crop patterns for
small-holder development linked to staple crops and (ii) crop patterns for
large scale farming and the need to diversify towards high-income export crops.
Advising on likely levels and types of crop inputs to optimise agricultural
production including cots and support service. Contribute to the preparation of
technical and feasibility reports.
Working on 6 small-scale irrigation
schemes in Amhara and Tigray regions. Assisting in carrying out a Participatory
Constraint Analysis.and marketing survey at the start of the work plan. Elaborating a demonstration programme in the
two Regions and establishing monitoring and evaluation system indicators.
Specifying demonstration implementation procedures, including inputs supply,
based on farmers’ participation and cooperation with agricultural staff.
Contribute to the definition of a more efficient extension method for the
diffusion of locally tested and viable irrigation agronomy practices. Assisting
in defining a training programme on irrigation agronomy for agricultural staff.
Assist in producing a manual on irrigation agronomy for development assistants
in both Regions. Assist in the elaboration of a medium to long-term strategy
for the development of irrigated agriculture in the two Regions.and severity of
saline areas on an irrigation project
Surveying
area and severity of saline areas on an irrigation project. Assessing extent of
reduction in crop yields and identifying causes. Outlining recommendations for
suitable crops, rotations and agronomic practices to reduce the effect on
yields of poor drainage and high salinity.