A regional study of the East Jordan valley, with special relation to the problems of soil and water utilization

Abstract

Problems concerned with the utilization of s oil and water are world-wide in scope, but are particularly distinctive in a r id zones where high temperatures and dryness can create soil salinity, soil alkalinity, and deficits in the water balance of plants. As a part of the semi-arid zone, the Eastern Jordan Valley suffers from such problems, which are reflected in crop yields and output, and hence in real incomes. During the last twenty years the impetus for the agricultural development in the area has largely come from successive waves of Palestinian settlers. These new immigrants have brought about revolutionary changes in the Agricultural Geography of the region. The increasing pressure of population on natural resources is the most important factor which has led to the search for additional utilization of available irrigation water. Execution of the East Ghor Irrigation Project in the nineteen sixties has aimed at transforming the economic and social life of the inhabitants of the valley. Thus, the present decade represents a transitional period leading to the proper development in the valley. The water resources of the area are discussed, with particular attention being paid to their qualities and quantities, their problems and potentials. The characteristics and distribution of the various soil types are analysed, and particular attention has been given to soil management problems, i.e. salinity, alkalinity and erosion, especially where these problems integrate with the problems of water use. The transformation of the land use pattern and management practices during the last ten years is considered in relation to the capability of lands in the valley, and the new problems which have arisen from recent development are discussed. These considerations lead to an assessment of past and present land evaluation in the study area, and suggest lines for future research and development