Issues for the year 2001


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ISSUE 44 - 17 DECEMBER 2001


CONTENTS:

1. DATABASE ON EDUCATION AND TRAINING COURSES IN IRRIGATION, DRAINAGE AND FLOOD CONTROL

2. AEZWIN - AN INTERACTIVE MULTIPLE-CHOICE ANALYSIS TOOL FOR LAND RESOURCES APPRAISAL
LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 15


3. KNOWLEDGE MAKES A DIFFERENCE - WOCAT VIDEO
LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 16


4. CURRENT WORLD FERTILIZER TREND AND OUTLOOK TO 2005/2006

5. TENDANCES ACTUELLES DU MARCHE MONDIAL DES ENGRAIS ET PERSPECTIVES JUSQU’EN 2005/2006

6. SITUACION ACTUAL Y PERSPECTIVAS DE LOS FERTILIZANTES EN EL MUNDO HASTA 2005/2006

7. CASE STUDIES ON WATER CONSERVATION IN THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION
IPTRID KNOWLEDGE SYNTHESIS REPORT 4


8. LECTURE NOTES ON THE MAJOR SOILS OF THE WORLD
WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 94


9. LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE CARIBBEAN
WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 95


10. LAND USE AND WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH: NEW E-JOURNAL



1. DATABASE ON EDUCATION AND TRAINING COURSES IN IRRIGATION, DRAINAGE AND FLOOD CONTROL

In support of initiatives to promote training and capacity building in agricultural water management, the Water Service of the Land and Water Development Division (AGLW) of FAO in close cooperation with the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) Working Group on Capacity building, Training and Education, compiled information from various training and educational institutions worldwide and established a web based database on available training courses. The specific objectives of the database are to provide:

* global information on the availability of education and training courses in the irrigation, drainage and flood control sectors, with relevant information on course content, duration, target group and conditions for admission.

* education and training providers an opportunity to advertise relevant information on the availability of the course and to seek interested applicants.

* potential trainees from irrigation, drainage and flood control projects opportunities to review and select appropriate training courses.

To consult the database and/or to register courses and training institutions in Irrigation, Drainage and Flood control, go to the database website

For comments and suggestions please contact:
water-training@fao.org


2. AEZWIN - AN INTERACTIVE MULTIPLE-CHOICE ANALYSIS TOOL FOR LAND RESOURCES APPRAISAL
LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 15


This CD-ROM presents the recently developed Windows-based software package for agro-ecological zoning analysis at the national and subnational levels, including models for land suitability and land productivity assessment and a user interface to multi-objective land use optimization. The software package allows models to be generated interactively corresponding to various scenarios of land use and then to be analysed using modular multiple-criteria model analysis tools. The package is illustrated by the example of a detailed Kenya AEZ study.

For technical information regarding this CD-Rom, and information on how to receive a copy, please contact
Jacques.Antoine@fao.org

AEZWIN. An interactive multiple-criteria analysis tool for land resources appraisal (CD-ROM)
FAO, Land and Water Digital Media Series n°15
Rome 2001
ISBN 92-5-104616-6

To order the publication through FAO’s publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


3. KNOWLEDGE MAKES A DIFFERENCE - WOCAT VIDEO
LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 16


This CD-ROM contains a video presentation of WOCAT (World Overview of Conservation Approaches and Technologies) in English, French and Spanish. WOCAT was established as a global network of SWC specialists. Its mission is to provide tools that allow Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) specialists to share their valuable knowledge in soil and water management, that assist them in their search for appropriate SWC technologies and approaches, and that support them in making decisions in the field and at the planning level.

For technical information regarding this CD-Rom, and information on how to receive a copy, please contact
agl-webmaster@fao.org


4. CURRENT WORLD FERTILIZER TREND AND OUTLOOK TO 2005/2006

This report presents world nitrogen, phosphate and potash fertilizer supply and demand projections for the period 2001/2002 to 2005/2006. The FAO Industry Working Group (FWG) made the forecasts in May 2001. The balances present a medium-term indication for possible changes in fertilizer nutrient demand and supply by region and subregion.

For technical information regarding this publication and to receive a hardcopy, please write to:
Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org

You can download this document (PDF format, 200 KB) from
here


5. TENDANCES ACTUELLES DU MARCHE MONDIAL DES ENGRAIS ET PERSPECTIVES JUSQU’EN 2005/2006

Ce rapport présente les projections pour la période 2001/2002 à 2005/ 2006 de l’offre et de la demande en engrais azotés, phosphatés et potassiques du monde. Le groupe de travail Industrie / FAO a réalisé ces prévisions en mai 2001. Les balances présentent une indication à moyen terme des changements possibles de l’offre et de la demande d’éléments nutritifs par région et sous-région.

Pour toute information complementaire concernant cette publication, ou pour recevoir une copie, contactez
Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org

Vous pouvez télécharger ce document (format PDF, 200 KB) d'ici


6. SITUACION ACTUAL Y PERSPECTIVAS DE LOS FERTILIZANTES EN EL MUNDO HASTA 2005/2006

Este informe presenta la producción de fertilizantes nitrogenados, fosfatados y potásicos y las proyecciones del consumo para el período 2001/2002 a 2005/2006. El Grupo de Trabajo de la FAO / Industria de fertilizantes hicieron los pronósticos en mayo de 2001. Los balances, presentan un señal a mediano plazo de posibles cambios en la oferta y la demanda de fertilizantes expresados en términos de nutrientes de las plantas, a nivel regional y sub-regional.

Se puede descargar el documento (formato PDF, 200 KB) desde aquí

Para informaciones técnicas sobre la publicación, o para recibir una copia, dirijese a
Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org


7. CASE STUDIES ON WATER CONSERVATION IN THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION
IPTRID KNOWLEDGE SYNTHESIS REPORT 4


The objective of this publication is to document a number of success stories in water conservation in the Mediterranean region and disseminate this experience widely to other parts of the world. Case studies from five countries were analysed in terms of successes and limiting factors, reported water savings, crop yield increase and efficiency of water use.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Alain.Vidal@fao.org

You can download the document from here


Case studies on water conservation in the Mediterranean region.
IPTRID Knowledge Synthesis Report No. 4
Rome, 2001, 60 p.
ISBN 92-5-104605-0
ISSN 1607-6613

To order the publication through FAO’s publication service, send a message to publications-sales@fao.org
or visit : FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


8. LECTURE NOTES ON THE MAJOR SOILS OF THE WORLD
WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 94


These lecture notes prepared in cooperation with the Universities of Wageningen and Leuven, ISRIC and ITC, describe the major soils of the world, their properties, genetic formation and regional distribution. All soils are discussed with due attention being paid to their management and associated land use. The World Reference Base for Soil Resources is used as the correlation system throughout the text. It is intended to facilitate the study of soils and the exchange of soil information, and provides a common language for soil science.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, send a message to
Freddy.Nachtergaele@fao.org

Further information can be obtained by consulting the web site of the World Reference Base for Soil Resources

or download it free of charge (PDF format, Size: 13.3 MB !) fromhere

Lecture Notes on the Major Soils of the World
World Soil Resources Report No. 94
Rome, 2001, 344 pp.
ISBN 92-5-104637-9
ISSN 0532-0488

To order the publication through FAO’s publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


9. LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE CARIBBEAN
WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 95


This document contains the proceedings of the Subregional Workshop on Land and Water Information Systems (LWRIS) in the Caribbean, held in Barbados in October 2000. The meeting was organized by FAO Land and Water Development Division (AGL), in collaboration with the Caribbean Agricultural and Research Development Institute. LWRIS experiences in the countries are presented as well as recommendations for future collaboration in database development, reporting and exchange of information, expertise and experience in land and water management in the region and the implementation of regional projects. This includes the preparation of national and regional reports on the state of land, water and plant nutrient resources in the Caribbean for dissemination through the Caribbean Land and Water Resources Network (CLAWRENET) Web site.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Jacques.Antoine@fao.org

or download it free of charge (PDF format, Size: >10 MB !) from here


Land resources information systems in the Caribbean
World Soil Resources Report No. 95
Rome, 2001, 140 pp.
ISBN 92-5-104624-7
ISSN 0532-0488

To order the publication through FAO’s publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


10. LAND USE AND WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH: NEW E-JOURNAL

Land Use and Water Resources Research (LUWRR) is a web-based journal devoted to the water resource, ecological, economic, climate change, socio-economic, policy and sustainable development issues related to land use. A particular aim of the journal is to connect better science and policy so that management solutions can be found which take into account the competing demands for land uses which are both productive, which sustain peoples livelihoods, which deliver conservation, amenity, recreation and environment/ecology (CARE) products and which also provide water with the quality and quantity required for sustainable development. The journal is freely available at
http://www.luwrr.com

Registered subscribers to LUWRR (Register) will be notified automatically when new material has been uploaded on the site.

For general inquiries, please contact
info@luwrr.com


ISSUE 43 - 23 OCTOBER 2001

CONTENTS:

* New Activities:

1. PARTICIPATORY TRAINING AND EXTENSION IN FARMERS WATER MANAGEMENT
WEBSITE AND CD-ROM


2. DATABASE ON COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE ORGANIC FERTILIZERS AND WATER RETAINING-PRODUCTS

3. FERTILIZER SUPPLY AND DEMAND FORECASTS DATABASE UPDATE UNTIL 2005

4. RooTalk - ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER FOR BIOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT OF SOIL PRODUCTIVITY

* New Publications:

5. FROM VISION TO ACTION: A SYNTHESIS OF NATIONAL WATER VISIONS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

6. L'ECONOMIE DE LA PRODUCTIVITE DES SOLS EN AFRIQUE

7. INDICADORES DE LA CALIDAD DE LA TIERRA Y SU USO PARA LA AGRICULTURA SOSTENIBLE Y EL DESARROLLO RURAL

8. CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE CASE STUDIES IN LATIN AMERICA AND AFRICA


1. PARTICIPATORY TRAINING AND EXTENSION IN FARMERS WATER MANAGEMENT WEBSITE AND CD-ROM

The Water service of the Food and Agriculture Organization has developed and compiled a package of training material for the development and implementation of Participatory Training & Extension Programme in Farmers' Water Management. The material was developed within the framework of FAO Technical Assistance Programmes and has been implemented and tested in a range of countries (e.g. Indonesia, Zambia, Nepal, Cambodia and Bangladesh). It is in particular relevant to assist communal water users' groups in assuming O & M responsibilities and to give guidance to farmers in adopting efficient water control technologies.

The training material can be reviewed and downloaded from the following website:
http://www.fao.org/ag/AGL/aglw/farmerwatertraining

The website will provide a platform to exchange experiences and to make available relevant reference documents, web links and training materials developed in various projects. By registering to the mailing list you will be updated on a regular basis. E-mail subscribers will be able to request assistance, initiate discussions and exchange materials.

The training package is compiled on a CD-ROM together with an extensive set of training aids and materials and is available as No 14 in the Land and Water Digital Media Series.

To register to the mailing list, or to obtain a CD-ROM, please write to:
farmer-water-training@fao.org


2. DATABASE ON COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE ORGANIC FERTILIZERS AND WATER RETAINING-PRODUCTS

The Soil Fertility and Integrated Plant Nutrition Management Group of AGLL has initiated compilation of a product information database of commercially available organic fertilizers, organo-mineral fertilizers, organic amendments and water-retaining products. The objective of this database is to inform decision-makers, extension services, and eventually farmers, particularly in developing countries of the range of products that are available in the international market and their salient features.

A standard information sheet has been designed to accommodate the different products. Completed sheets with information provided by some manufacturers have been put on the database web page for wider dissemination.

For more information, please contact Sylvia.DeBertoldi@fao.org


3. FERTILIZER SUPPLY AND DEMAND FORECASTS DATABASE UPDATE UNTIL 2005

FAO, in collaboration with experts from World Bank, UNIDO, the Industry Working Group dealing with fertilizer production and trade, provides five-year forecasts of world and regional fertilizer supply and demand balances on a yearly basis.
The potential fertilizer supply shown in the tables is based on existing capacities, without any market constraints. The nominal supply capacities include existing plants and projects as well as idle plants unless they will be recommissioned during the 5 year forecast period. The production capability is determined by the installed technical production capacity, the highest plant utilization rate estimated on the basis of performances of the past ten years, and estimated processing and distribution losses. Fertilizer demand is the projected market allowing for various market constraints and is not necessarily identical with projected fertilizer needs based on agronomic or food production requirements.

The forcasts can be accessed here

For more information, please contact
Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org


4. RooTalk - ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER FOR BIOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT OF SOIL PRODUCTIVITY

The newsletter "RooTalk" aims to promote electronic consultation and networking on the biological management of soil productivity and facilitate sharing of experiences and knowledge between researchers, extensionists and practitioners. This can lead to the development of a coherent strategy on soil biodiversity and sustainable agriculture to help farmers and governments in meeting their local and national objectives and commitments.

If you would like to receive the first issue (September 2001) or would like to be put on the mailing list for further issues, please contact the editors, Sally Bunning and Adriana Montanez, under
Sally.Bunning@fao.org


5. FROM VISION TO ACTION: A SYNTHESIS OF NATIONAL WATER VISIONS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Based on the FAO-ESCAP project to develop 'national water visions' in the Asia-Pacific region that would set out each country's goals for sound water management to meet the needs of all for this vital natural resource over the next two decades. Contains four Southeast Asia case studies (Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Viet Nam), which were carried out as part of the project and looks at water use in these countries and how they plan to fulfil their water visions.

For technical information regarding this publication, please contact
Thierry.Facon@fao.org

From Vision to Action: A synthesis of national water visions in Southeast Asia
RAP publication 2001/06, 122 pages

For copies, write to the
Meetings and Publications Officer
FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
Maliwan Mansion, 39 Phra Atit Road
Bangkok 10200
Thailand
E-mail: RAP-Publications@fao.org
http://www.fao.or.th/Publications/publications.htm


6. L'ECONOMIE DE LA PRODUCTIVITE DES SOLS EN AFRIQUE

Cette étude examine les rôles présent et potentiel des sciences économiques dans la productivité des sols en Afrique subsaharienne. Après avoir étudié l'état de la productivité des sols et la contribution des approches / analyses économiques conventionnelles pour traiter des problèmes, elle considère des approches plus innovantes permettant aux études économiques de jouer un plus grand rôle dans le planning et l'évaluation des mesures améliorant la productivité des sols au niveau de l'exploitation, au niveau national ou mondial.

Cette étude met en évidence comment les sciences économiques peuvent répondre à ce défi grâce à l'application de concepts nouveaux (exemple du capital naturel) et des techniques spécifiques (par exemple, l'analyse multi-critères et la comptabilité verte).

Pour toute information complémentaire concernant cette publication, contactez
Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org

ou téléchargez le document gratuitement (format PDF, 1 MB) d'ici

L'économie de la productivité des sols en Afrique subsaharienne
2001; 64 pp.
ISBN 92-5-204522-8

Pour commander cette publication, envoyez un e-mail à
publication-sales@fao.org
ou visitez le site internet du catalogue des publications de la FAO


7. INDICADORES DE LA CALIDAD DE LA TIERRA Y SU USO PARA LA AGRICULTURA SOSTENIBLE Y EL DESARROLLO RURAL
BOLETIN DE TIERRAS Y AGUAS DE LA FAO 5


Este informe hace referencia en forma específica a los indicadores de calidad de la tierra (ICT). Contiene además una compilación útil de recomendaciones, experiencias y opiniones sobre porque la información acerca de la calidad de la tierra es importante para el desarrollo sostenible y como esta puede ser usada mas eficientemente para la planificación y la toma de decisiones. El informe, a su vez, plantea tantas preguntas como respuestas, lo cual refleja la diversidad de los puntos de vista sobre el problema de los indicadores.

El programa ICT es una iniciativa conjunta de la FAO, el PNUD, el PNUMA y el Banco Mundial, dirigida a asistir a los planificadores y a los ejecutivos de los distintos países para hacer el mejor uso posible de la información existente sobre calidad de la tierra y para promover una forma sistemática de recolección de datos e información.

Para preguntas técnicas sobre esta publicación, y para recibir información como se puede recibir una copia, dirijese a
Jose.Benites@fao.org

o descargue el documento sin costo (formato PDF, 4,3 MB!) desdeaquí

Indicadores de la calidad de la tierra y su uso para la agricultura sostenible y el desarrollo rural
2001; 210 pp
ISBN 92-5-303975-2

Para ordenar esta publicación dirijese a
publication.sales@fao.org
o visite el catálogo de las publicaciones de la FAO


8. CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE CASE STUDIES IN LATIN AMERICA AND AFRICA
FAO SOILS BULLETIN 78


The purpose of this publication is to show how conservation agriculture can increase crop production while reducing erosion and reversing soil fertility decline, improving rural livelihoods and restoring the environment in developing countries. Soil organic matter and biological activity in the rooting zone, stimulated by continual additions of fresh organic material (crop residues and cover crops) are the basis of conservation agriculture. A review of conservation-effective systems of land use in Africa and Latin America is used to present a set of conditions necessary for farming systems to be conservation-effective and sustainable in the long run. These experiences have demonstrated that the development of intensive production systems in the tropics is technically feasible and economically profitable, while improving the quality of the natural resources and protecting the environment. These production systems allow a more adequate land use, which in turn generate more nutrients in the soil and improve its water retention capacity. Additionally, agro-biodiversity and carbon sequestration are enhanced through these conservation-effective systems.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Jose.Benites@fao.org

or download it free of charge (PDF format, 3 MB) from here

Conservation agriculture: Case studies in Latin America and Africa
FAO Soils Bulletin No. 78
Rome, 2001, 70 pp.
ISBN 92-5-104625-5

To order this publication, send a request to
publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


ISSUE 42 - 18 SEPTEMBER 2001

CONTENTS:

* Staff Matters:

1. NEW DIRECTOR OF THE LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

* New Activities:

2. REGIONAL SEMINAR ON PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION AND IRRIGATION EXPANSION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
22 - 26 OCTOBER 2001, ACCRA, GHANA


3. SEMINAIRE REGIONAL SUR LA PARTICIPATION DU SECTEUR PRIVE ET L'EXPANSION DE L'IRRIGATION EN AFRIQUE SUBSAHARIENNE
22 - 26 OCTOBRE 2001, ACCRA, GHANA


4. WATER CONSERVATION AND USE IN AGRICULTURE INFORMATION SYSTEM WCA INFONET LAUNCHED:
CALL FOR INPUTS


5. LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE NEAR EAST WORKSHOP RESULTS AVAILABLE ON-LINE

* New Publications:

6. HANDBOOK ON PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION TECHNIQUES

7. GUIDELINES FOR BENCHMARKING PERFORMANCE IN THE IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SECTOR
IPTRID KNOWLEDGE REVIEW 5



1. NEW DIRECTOR OF THE LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Dr. Kenji Yoshinaga was appointed in July 2001 as the Director of FAO's Land and Water Development Division. Dr. Yoshinaga is an Agricultural Engineer from Kyusyu University in Japan and has over 30 years of professional experience in irrigation and drainage engineering, rural development and environment policy analysis.

Before joining FAO, Dr. Yoshinaga was the Deputy Director of the Department of International Affairs at the National Research Institute of Agricultural Economics, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Tokyo, Japan. During his long professional career, Dr. Yoshinaga worked at the OECD in Paris, France, from 1991 to 1995, during which he chaired a number of OECD committees and workshops on sustainable management of water in agriculture.


2. REGIONAL SEMINAR ON PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION AND IRRIGATION EXPANSION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
22 - 26 OCTOBER 2001, ACCRA, GHANA


The seminar, sponsored by FAO, CTA, IWMI, IPTRID, and Colombo Plan, will draw from positive and negative experiences with the development and management of private irrigated farms from different regions including Asia to formulate recommendations to improve and accelerate the development of private irrigation in SSA.

The main topics are:
(1) small-scale informal irrigation;
(2) emerging commercial irrigated farming;
(3) sustainable irrigation management transfer; and
(4) enabling environment and emergence of new operators.

Deadline for registration is 30 September 2001.

For further information see the information note


or contact
Mr. Moïse Sonou
Senior Water Development Officer
FAO Regional Office for Africa
Tel: (233-21) 7010930/675000 Ext. 3119
Fax: (233-21) 7010930/668427
E-mail: Moise.Sonou@fao.org


3. SEMINAIRE REGIONAL SUR LA PARTICIPATION DU SECTEUR PRIVE ET L'EXPANSION DE L'IRRIGATION EN AFRIQUE SUBSAHARIENNE
22 - 26 OCTOBRE 2001, ACCRA, GHANA


Le séminaire organisé par FAO, CTA, IWMI, IPTRID, et Colombo Plan, devrait montrer l'importance du rôle que le secteur privé peut et devrait jouer dans le développement de l'irrigation. Les leçons des expériences (positives et négatives) de développement de l'irrigation privée dans plusieurs régions serviront à formuler les recommandations destinées à en accélérer l'expansion et en améliorer la performance en Afrique Sub-saharienne. Ces recommandations seront adressées aux gouvernements, aux agences techniques, aux donateurs et institutions de financement.

Les thèmes principaux sont:
(1) petite irrigation;
(2) émergence des exploitations commerciales en agriculture irriguée; (3)
transfert durable de la gestion de l'irrigation; et
(4) environnement favorable et émergence de nouveaux opérateurs.

On peut s'inscrire jusqu'au 30 septembre 2001.

Pour de plus amples informations voyez la note d'information

ou contactez
M. Moïse SONOU
Fonctionnaire Principal
Représentation Régionale de la FAO pour l'Afrique
P.O. Box 1628
Accra, Ghana
Tel. (233-21) 70 10 930/67 50 00 Et. 3119
Fax: (233-21) 70 10 943 / 66 84 27
Email: Moise.Sonou@fao.org


4. WATER CONSERVATION AND USE IN AGRICULTURE INFORMATION SYSTEM WCA INFONET LAUNCHED:
CALL FOR INPUTS


On 1 August 2001, IPTRID launched WCA infoNET, an interactive information and knowledge system on Water Conservation and Use in Agriculture. The system gives direct access to a wide range of knowledge stored electronically as well as providing a platform for information exchange and discussion among professionals.

In the irrigation and drainage community, like many others, there is an urgent need for a professional information system like WCA infoNET to facilitate information finding and to provide a platform for sharing professional knowledge. The system is primarily focused on bringing scientifically relevant and approved information to researchers and end users that will assist them in water conservation and use in agriculture.

WCA infoNET is an interactive information system. After registering on-line, any member can participate actively by suggesting to the corresponding editor on-line items that should be added to the system.

Your inputs are highly appreciated. The system can be accessed under:
http://www.wca-infonet.org

For further information, contact Dr. Thomas-M. Stein


5. LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN THE NEAR EAST
WORKSHOP RESULTS AVAILABLE ON-LINE


A Regional Workshop on Land Resources Information Systems was organized by FAO in co-operation with the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture & Land Reclamation from 3 to 6 September 2001, in Cairo. It was attended by representatives from11 countries: Egypt, Jordan, Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Yemen, Tunisia, Turkey, Syria, Bahrain, and Sudan, in addition to 4 Regional Organizations (AOAD, ESCWA, League of Arab States, and UNEP Regional Office/Bahrain). Development in Land and Water Information Systems, preparation of national/regional land and water reports and future collaboration in the Gateway of Land and Water Information global network were discussed.

The national land and water report for Egypt can be accessed here
Access the gateway here.

For technical information regarding this initiative, please contact
Sachimine.Masui@fao.org


6. HANDBOOK ON PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION TECHNIQUES

Irrigated agriculture has been an extremely important source of food production over recent decades. Food requirements will increase in future, while global water resources are limited. Therefore, making the best use of water for agriculture and improving irrigation efficiency are prerequisites for the future. Shifting from surface irrigation to pressurized irrigation will contribute substantially to these goals. The objective of this handbook is to provide a practical guide for irrigation and agriculture technicians and extension workers in the field. The ring binder format of the handbook will permit future update of individual chapters, which may become necessary with the rapid changing pressurized irrigation technology.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Reto.Florin@fao.org

Handbook on Pressurized Irrigation Techniques
Rome, 2001, 210 pp. (ring binder)
ISBN 92-5-104532-1

To order the publication through FAO's publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


7. GUIDELINES FOR BENCHMARKING PERFORMANCE IN THE IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE SECTOR IPTRID KNOWLEDGE REVIEW 5

Many formal irrigation schemes are performing inefficiently for a number of reasons, among which the poor performance of irrigation institutions is one. One of the elements of reforming irrigation institutions is benchmarking irrigation and drainage projects with special reference to the performance of organisations in charge of providing irrigation services. Benchmarking may be defined as the identification and application of organisation specific best practices with the goal of improving competitiveness, performance and efficiency. It is a continuous process that involves
(a) internal assessment of the organisation,
(b) comparing it with the best practices of more successful similar businesses in the market,
(c) determining performance gap between current practice and best practice, and
(d) selecting best practices, tailoring them to fit the organisation and implementing them. Benchmarking does not substitute other diagnostic and appraisal analyses, but rather complements them.

For technical information regarding this publication, please contact
Tom.Brabben@fao.org

You can download the document (pdf format, 1,37 MB) from here


A copy of the paper may be requested by post from the IPTRID Secretariat by sending to a message with your name, address and organization to
iptrid@fao.org


ISSUE 41 - 28 May 2001

CONTENTS:

New Publications of the Land and Water Development Division:

1. ATLAS OF WATER RESOURCES AND IRRIGATION IN AFRICA
FAO LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 13 - CD-ROM


2. WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF WATER POLLUTION
FAO WATER REPORT 21


3. CROP WATER REQUIREMENTS - RUSSIAN VERSION
FAO IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE PAPER 24


4. MODERNIZATION OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS:
PROCEEDINGS OF THE 5TH ITIS NETWORK MEETING NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE


5. FIELD GUIDE ON IRRIGATED AGRICULTURE FOR FIELD ASSISTANTS
IPTRID CAPACITY BUILDING REPORT 1


6. MANUEL DE PRATIQUES INTEGREES DE GESTION ET DE CONSERVATION DE SOLS
BULLETIN DES TERRES ET DES EAUX DE LA FAO 8


New Activities of the Land and Water Development Division

7. INVENTORY OF WATER TRAINING COURSES - CALL FOR INPUTS

News from other Organizations:

8. SIEMBRA DIRECTA: UNA HERRAMIENTA PARA LA AGRICULTURA CONSERVACIONISTA. MEMORIAS DE LA V REUNION DE LA
RED LATINOAMERICANA DE AGRICULTURA CONSERVACIONISTA - CD-ROM



1. ATLAS OF WATER RESOURCES AND IRRIGATION IN AFRICA
FAO LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 13 - CD-ROM


The Land and Water Development Division of FAO is developing a global information system of water and agriculture with the objective to provide users with comprehensive information on the state of agricultural water management across the world. The system will help assessing the role of irrigation in global food production and the relation between irrigation and water scarcity. The system combines classical country-based statistics on all aspects of agricultural water management (water resources and use, irrigation, drainage, etc.), known as AQUASTAT, and a set of maps, data and models combined through a Geographical Information System (GIS).

Africa is the first continent for which the information system has been completed. This CD-ROM contains:

1. A set of digital tables and maps on water resources and irrigation at continental level and by river basin (major basins and sub-basins) resulting from simulations on the water balance model.

2. A set of GIS coverages and Avenue scripts on water resources and irrigation (Annex 1) intended for advanced users willing to adapt the model to their specific needs.

3. A georeferenced database of African dams in Microsoft(R) Excel. 4. AQUASTAT country profiles for the 53 countries of Africa.

For technical queries regarding this CD-Rom, and information how to get a copy, please contact
Jippe.Hoogeveen@fao.org

Atlas of Water Resources and Irrigation in Africa
CD-ROM
ISBN 92-5-104573-9

To order the publication through FAO's publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


2. WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF WATER POLLUTION
FAO WATER REPORT 21


In its recent examination of global water scarcity (1997) the United Nations system identified water quality as one of the key concerns in Asia in the next century. This concern is based on the fact that water quality degradation is so severe in many Asian countries that it is placing serious constraints on economic growth; it continues to be a serious problem for human health and it is causing widespread negative environmental effects. The problem of future management of water quality in Asia is a complex one, and requires re-examination of a number of key areas - including technical, institutional, legal and governance issues. Within this context, FAO organized a Regional Workshop on Water Quality Management and Control of Water Pollution which took place in Bangkok, Thailand from 26 to 30 October 1999. This publication contains the report and recommendations of the Workshop; the edited versions of 18 papers presented and discussed during the meeting are contained in the CD-ROM.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Reto.Florin@fao.org

or download it free of charge(PDF format, Size: 10.944 MB !)

Water quality management and control of water pollution
Water Reports No. 21
2000, 20 pp. + CD-ROM
ISBN 92-5-104503-8

To order the publication through FAO's publication service, send a message to
publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue:
http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm


3. CROP WATER REQUIREMENTS - RUSSIAN VERSION
FAO IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE PAPER 24


Through an agreement between FAO and the Scientific Information Centre for the Interstate Coordination Water Commission (SIC-ICWC) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, selected issues of the Irrigation and Drainage Papers Series will be published in Russian. The first publication has recently become available:

Crop Water Requirements - FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper No 24 (1977) by J. Doorenbos and W. Pruitt.

Translation of four additional papers in Russian are scheduled to be published in the near future.

To obtain copies of the publication and further information, please contact

Prof. Victor A. Dukhovny
Scientific Information Center of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination
SANIIRI
2nd floor, Karasu-4, 11; Tashkent 700187,Uzbekistan
Phone: (+ 998 71) 1691493, 1691494
Fax: (+ 998 71) 1691495
E-mail: dukh@sicicwc.aral-sea.net


4. MODERNIZATION OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS:
PROCEEDINGS OF THE 5TH ITIS NETWORK MEETING NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE


Fifty irrigation professionals gathered in Aurangabad, Maharashtra State, India, between 28 and 30 October 1998 to discuss and exchange ideas concerning the modernization of irrigation system operations. Twelve countries, and seven Indian states, were represented along with several international institutes. Main objective of the network is to disseminate information techniques for the improvement of irrigation performance through an exchange of ideas between managers, researchers and decision-makers. The network is supported by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Cemagref, the French research centre for agricultural & environmental engineering, and FAO, the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, Rome.

The publication is available on-line


For technical information on the publication, or to receive a hardcopy, contact Thierry Facon at the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific under
Thierry.Facon@fao.org


5. FIELD GUIDE ON IRRIGATED AGRICULTURE FOR FIELD ASSISTANTS
IPTRID CAPACITY BUILDING REPORT 1


Irrigated agriculture can make an important contribution to improved nutrition, food security and to rural livelihoods by increasing income generating opportunities. The aim is of the new field guide is to help extension staff; field assistants and development officers, to promote, encourage and support individuals and groups of smallholders to gain the benefits of irrigated agriculture.
The modules of the guide can be used in support of training courses, however, their primary function is to provide information to Field Assistants under their normal working situation. The material included in the Field Guide deals with the most commonly occurring situations (crops, size of land holdings, etc.) facing smallholders who may be unfamiliar with irrigated cultivation. The material has been purposefully simplified to provide answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Originally produced for Malawi, this version is published to allow wider distribution of the Field Guide as much of the material could be relevant to situations in other countries in sub-Saharan Africa. It is planned to adapt the Field Guide for use in one or more countries in the region.

For technical information on this document, please contact
Tom.Brabben@fao.org.

The report is not yet available for electronic download. To request a hardcopy, please contact the IPTRID secretariat:
iptrid@fao.org


6. MANUEL DE PRATIQUES INTEGREES DE GESTION ET DE CONSERVATION DE SOLS
BULLETIN DES TERRES ET DES EAUX DE LA FAO 8


La dégradation des sols est une menace directe pour la durabilité de la production agricole. De profonds changements des concepts de gestion des sols sont nécessaires afin de remédier à cette menace. Ce manuel offre des solutions de rechange; il traite de très nombreux sujets concernant la gestion des terres agricoles, allant des caractéristiques physiques et chimiques des sols, gestion de sols, mécanisation et labourage, de la lutte contre l'érosion et de la gestion de l'eau, aux concepts de transfert participatif de technologies. Le manuel s'adresse aux professeurs et étudiants, et aux formateurs et techniciens concernés par l 'élaboration de programmes, directives et politiques liés à la gestion et la conservation des terres agricoles.

Pour toute information complémentaire concernant cette publication, contactez
Jose.Benites@fao.org

ou téléchargez le document gratuitement (format PDF, Attention - 10 MB!)

Manuel de pratiques intégrées de gestion et de conservation des sols
2000; 208 pp.
ISBN 92-5-204417-5

Pour commander cette publication, envoyez un e-mail à
publication-sales@fao.org
ou visitez le site internet du catalogue des publications de la FAO:


7. INVENTORY OF WATER TRAINING COURSES - CALL FOR INPUTS

The Water Resources Management and Development Service of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO-AGLW) and the International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) are collaborating in an inventory and compilation of information on training and educational institutes worldwide in the irrigation, drainage and flood control sector. The information will be made available in the near future on the FAO-AGLW website to provide information on the availability of education and training courses in the agricultural water sector.

Your cooperation is highly appreciated in providing information on any short and medium courses your institute, agency or project is offering.

Please submit relevant information or request the Water Training Information Sheet by contacting
Martin.Smith@fao.org


8. SIEMBRA DIRECTA: UNA HERRAMIENTA PARA LA AGRICULTURA CONSERVACIONISTA. MEMORIAS DE LA V REUNION DE LA
RED LATINOAMERICANA DE AGRICULTURA CONSERVACIONISTA - CD-ROM


La Red Latinoamericana de Agricultura Conservacionista (RELACO) es una asociación profesional que reúne a personas interesadas y capaces de contribuir al desarrollo de l ciencia, tecnología y producción agrícola conservacionista en América Latina y el Caribe, apoyada por FAO y instituciones a nivel nacional. El CD-ROM contiene los trabajos que se presentaron a la quinta reunión de RELACO en Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brasil, en 1999, las resoluciones de la Asamblea General, y otros artículos sobre diferentes aspectos de agricultura conservacionista.

Por cualquier asunto técnico referente a este CD-Rom, o para obtener una copia, contáctese con
Jose.Benites@fao.org


ISSUE 40 - 14 MAY 2001

CONTENTS:

New Publications of the Land and Water Development Division:

1. TRANSFERT DES SERVICES DE GESTION DE L'IRRIGATION - DIRECTIVES
BULLETIN FAO D'IRRIGATION ET DE DRAINAGE 58


2. TRANSFERENCIA DE LA GESTION DE LA GESTION DEL RIEGO - DIRECTRICES
ESTUDIO FAO RIEGO Y DRENAJE 58


3. SOIL MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION FOR SMALL FARMS. STRATEGIES AND METHODS OF INTRODUCTION, TECHNOLOGIES AND EQUIPMENT
FAO SOILS BULLETIN 77


4. MANEJO DEL SUELO EN PEQUENAS FINCAS. ESTRATEGIAS Y METODOS DE INTRODUCCION, TECNOLOGIAS Y EQUIPOS
BOLETIN DE SUELOS DE LA FAO 77


5. CONSERVATION TILLAGE: A VIABLE OPTION FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN EURASIA

News from Other Organizations:

6. USDA IRRIGATION GUIDE AVAILABLE ONLINE

7. INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON INTEGRATED RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT
ROSARIO, ARGENTINA, 8-12 OCTOBER 2001


8. SEMINARIO INTERNACIONAL MANEJO INTEGRAL DE CUENCAS HIDROGRAFICAS
ROSARIO, ARGENTINA, 8-12 OCTUBRE 2001


9. INTERNATIONAL COURSE ON LAND DRAINAGE


1. TRANSFERT DES SERVICES DE GESTION DE L'IRRIGATION - DIRECTIVES
BULLETIN FAO D'IRRIGATION ET DE DRAINAGE 58


Le transfert de la gestion de l'irrigation est le passage de la responsabilité et de l'autorité de la gestion des périmètres irrigués des organismes publics aux organisations non gouvernementales telles que les associations des usagers de l'eau. Ce transfert peut être total ou partiel, tant pour ce qui concerne les fonctions de gestion que pour l'autorité. Il concerne actuellement une quarantaine de pays dans le monde. L'expérience montre qu'une approche plus conceptuelle et systématique de ce type de réforme est nécessaire. Ces directives ont été élaborées pour aider les décideurs, les planificateurs, les experts techniques et les autres responsables des réformes qui s'occupent de programmes de transfert de la gestion de l'irrigation à concevoir et mettre en oeuvre une réforme efficace, globale, intégrée et durable.

Pour toute information complémentaire concernant cette publication, contactez
Martin.Smith@fao.org

ou téléchargez le document gratuitement(format PDF, 1,78 MB)

Transfert des services de gestion de l'irrigation - Directives
2001; 114 pp.
ISBN 92-5-204308-X

Pour commander cette publication, envoyez un e-mail à
publication-sales@fao.org
ou visitez le site internet du catalogue des publications de la FAO:


2. TRANSFERENCIA DE LA GESTION DE LA GESTION DEL RIEGO - DIRECTRICES
ESTUDIO FAO RIEGO Y DRENAJE 58


La Transferencia de la Gestión del Riego (TGR) supone la redistribución de responsabilidades y autoridad de la gestión del riego desde las agencias gubernamentales a las organizaciones no gubernamentales, como las Asociaciones de Usuarios del Agua. Podría incluir la transferencia total o parcial de las funciones de gestión y la autoridad. La TGR es un proceso extendido que está teniendo lugar en más de 40 países alrededor del mundo. La experiencia indica la necesidad de un enfoque sistemático para la reforma pretendida. Estas directrices se han elaborado para asistir a los políticos, planificadores, expertos técnicos, representantes de los agricultores y otros agentes involucrados en los programas de transferencia de la gestión del riego a diseñar y llevar a cabo una reforma efectiva, completa y sostenible.

Para preguntas técnicas sobre esta publicación, y para recibir información como se puede recibir la publicación, dirijese a
Martin.Smith@fao.org

o descargue el documento sin costo (formato PDF, 1,95 MB)

Transferencia de la gestión del riego - Directrices
2001; 114 pp
ISBN 92-5-304308-3

Para ordenar esta publicación dirijese a
publication.sales@fao.org
o visite el catálogo de las publicaciones de la FAO


3. SOIL MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION FOR SMALL FARMS. STRATEGIES AND METHODS OF INTRODUCTION, TECHNOLOGIES AND EQUIPMENT
FAO SOILS BULLETIN 77


This report is intended for development practitioners, extensionists and leaders or pioneers in farming communities, to inform them about the experiences and initiatives of farming communities in conservation agriculture in Santa Catarina State, Brazil. On the basis of several local initiatives, inventions and developments, there have been widespread improvements in soil management in various parts of the State, resulting in lower costs and improved returns, combined with conservation and improvement of the soil resources. The main elements of success were minimum tillage, soil cover management and direct seeding practices and equipment, together with an effective and creative extension service. While these developments probably cannot be duplicated as such elsewhere, the methods and strategies may well inspire others to adapt and modify them for application in their own environments.

For technical information concerning this publication, and information on how to obtain a copy, please send a message to
Jose.Benites@fao.org

or download it free of charge (PDF format, 5.84 MB) from

Soil management and conservation for small farms. Strategies and methods of introduction, technologies and equipment
FAO Soils Bulletin No. 77
Rome, 2000, 74 pp.
ISBN 92-5-104499-6

To order this publication, send a request to
publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue


4. MANEJO DEL SUELO EN PEQUENAS FINCAS. ESTRATEGIAS Y METODOS DE INTRODUCCION, TECNOLOGIAS Y EQUIPOS
BOLETIN DE SUELOS DE LA FAO 77


Esta publicación está dirigida a los técnicos en desarrollo, extensionistas y líderes o pioneros de comunidades de agricultores a fin de informarles sobre las experiencias e iniciativas llevadas a cabo en la agricultura conservacionista en el estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Diversas invenciones y métodos de desarrollo locales se han traducido en importantes mejoras en el manejo de los suelos, en menores costos y mayores rendimientos, y en la conservación de los recursos edáficos. Los principales elementos de éxito fueron la labranza mínima, el manejo de la cobertura del suelo, el empleo de equipo para la siembra directa, y la implantación de un servicio de extensión eficiente y creativo. Si bien estas técnicas tal vez no puedan ser trasladadas a otros lugares, los métodos y estratégicas aplicados en Santa Catarina podrían ser adaptados y modificados para su uso en ambientes diferentes.

Para preguntas técnicas sobre esta publicación, y para recibir información como se puede recibir la publicación, dirijese a
Jose.Benites@fao.org

o descargue el documento sin costo (formato PDF, 5,84 MB)


Manejo del suelo en pequeñas fincas. Estrategias y métodos de introducción, tecnologías y equipos
Boletín de Suelos de la FAO No. 77
Roma, 2000, 74 págs.
ISBN 92-5-304499-3

Para ordenar esta publicación dirijese a
publication.sales@fao.org
o visite el catálogo de las publicaciones de la FAO


5. CONSERVATION TILLAGE: A VIABLE OPTION FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN EURASIA

Proceedings of an International Workshop
Shortandy-Astana, Kazakhstan, September 19-24, 1999

The workshop, jointly organized by the A.I. Baraev Kazakh Research Insitute for Grain Farming, CIMMYT, ICARDA, and FAO, was part of a process to develop and implement conservation tillage national action plans in selected Eurasian countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Republic of Moldova, Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan). The workshop brought together national stakeholders as well as conservation tillage experts from similar agro-ecosystems, donor countries, international organizations, and agricultural research centers. The workshop identified needs, gaps and roles of partners and donors in the elaboration of national conservation tillage action plans.

For technical information on this publication, and information on how to receive a copy, please write to
Jose.Benites@fao.org.


6. USDA IRRIGATION GUIDE AVAILABLE ONLINE

The United States Department of Agriculture - Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Irrigation Guide, published in 1998, is now available electronically. PDF components of the Guide are available here

The manual is in US units so it may require some mathematical skill on the part of international users.

For further information please contact

Thomas L. Spofford, Irrigation Engineer
USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service
National Water & Climate Center, Water Science & Technology
101 SW Main St., Suite 1600
Portland, OR 97204
PHONE +1-503-414-3075 / FAX +1-503-414-3101
e-mail: tspofford@wcc.nrcs.usda.gov


7. INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON INTEGRATED RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT
ROSARIO, ARGENTINA, 8.-12. OCTOBER 2001


The Centro Universitaria Rosario de Investigaciones Hidroambientales (CURIAM) is organizing an international seminar on integrated river basin management which will be held from 8-12 October 2001 in Rosario, Argentina. This seminar attempts to gather international experts working on matters related to river basins, in an effort to exchange information on methodologies and techniques used in the use, occupation and intervention of infrastructure.

The main thematic areas include:

* Integral Management of Urban Basins
* Territorial Planning
* Integral Management of Rural Basins
* Directorial Planning
* Management of underground basins
* Planning and Management
* Processing and data collection
* Environmental impact evaluation models

Abstracts must be received by 8 June 2001.

For more information visithttp://www.fceia.unr.edu.ar/curiham

or contact
curiham@cfeia.unr.edu.ar
tel: 54-341-4808541


8. SEMINARIO INTERNACIONAL MANEJO INTEGRAL DE CUENCAS HIDROGRAFICAS
ROSARIO, ARGENTINA, 8-12 OCTUBRE 2001


El Centro Universitaria Rosario de Investigaciones Hidroambientales (CURIAM) está organizando un Seminario Internacional sobre "Manejo Integral de Cuencas Hidrográficas", que se llevará a cabo del 8 al 12 de Octubre de 2001 en Rosario, Argentina.

El Seminario pretende reunir a especialistas internacionales que trabajan a nivel de cuenca, a fin de conocer las metodologías y técnicas utilizadas en el uso, ocupación e intervención infraestructural.

Las áreas temáticas son las siguientes:

* Manejo Integral de Cuencas Urbanas
* Ordenamiento territorial
* Manejo Integral de Cuencas Rurales
* Planes Directores
* Manejo de Cuencas Subterráneas
* Planificación y Gestión
* Procesamiento y recolección de datos
* Modelos de Evaluación de Impacto Ambiental

Fecha límite de recepción de resumen: 8 de junio de 2001

Para mayor información visite
http://www.fceia.unr.edu.ar/curiham
o contáctese con
curiham@cfeia.unr.edu.ar
Tel: 54-341-4808541


9. INTERNATIONAL COURSE ON LAND DRAINAGE

The International Institute for Land Reclamation and Improvement (ILRI) organizes its fortieth International Course on Land Drainage. This training course will take place from 20 August until 7 December 2001 in Wageningen, the Netherlands. Objective of the course is for professionals in water management to extend their knowledge and skills on agricultural drainage and related issues.

Applicants with their own sponsor can apply until 1 June.

More details:
http://www.ilri.nl (click 'training')
or contact Fons Jaspers: A.M.J.Jaspers@ilri.agro.nl.


ISSUE 39 - 04 APRIL 2001


CONTENTS:

New Publications from the Land and Water Development Division:

  1. SOIL AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
    IN SUPPORT OF THE SOIL FERTILITY INITIATIVE

News from other organizations :

  1. OPENINGS FOR THREE SENIOR RESEARCH POSITIONS AT THE
    INTERNATIONAL WATER MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE
  2. POSTGRADUATE STUDIES PROGRAMME IN WATER RESOURCES
    MANAGEMENT AND HYDROLOGY

Upcoming meetings and conferences:

  1. FOURTH INTER-REGIONAL CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENT-WATER:
    COMPETITIVE USE AND CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR WATER AND NATURAL RESOURCES
  2. THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LAND DEGRADATION
    LAND DEGRADATION: NEW TRENDS TOWARDS GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY
  3. INTEGRATION OF CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK:
    CONFLICTS AND SYNERGIES - 6TH MEETING OF RELACO

1.     SOIL AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA IN SUPPORT
        OF THE SOIL FERTILITY INITIATIVE 

The publication contains the proceedings of an expert consultation on soil and nutrient management held in Lusaka, Zambia, in December 1999. It presents experiences with soil fertility management technologies in different countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, and reports on the implementation of the Soil Fertility Initiative. Furthermore, the experts discussed participatory approaches for the diagnosis of constraints and opportunities and integrated soil and nutrient management technologies for Farmer Field Schools.

For technical information on this publication, please contact
Rabindra.Roy@fao.org.

Soil and Nutrient Management in Sub-Saharan Africa in Support of the Soil
Fertility Initiative
AGL Miscellaneous Publication
AGL/MISC/31/01
2001, 382.pp.

To order a copy of this publication, please write to land-and-water@fao.org


2.     OPENINGS FOR 3 SENIOR RESEARCH POSITIONS AT THE 
        INTERNATIONAL WATER MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, has openings for three senior research positions, HYDROLOGIST, ECO-HYDROLOGIST and THEME LEADER FOR WATER RESOURCE INSTITUTIONS AND POLICIES. For information on these positions, please visit
http://www.cgiar.org/iwmi/home/Position.htm 

or contact 

the Senior Manager Human Resources 
IWMI P.O. Box 2075
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Fax (94-1) 866854
E-mail s.amarasuriya@cgiar.org

Applications will be accepted until 21st April 2001 or until the positions
are filled.


3.     POSTGRADUATE STUDIES PROGRAMME IN WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND HYDROLOGY
    October 1, 2001 to December 13, 2002

Organizers: The Institutes of Hydrology and Water Management of the Ecoles Polytechniques Fédérales, Lausanne and Zurich Centre d'Hydrogeology of the University of Neuchâtel The postgraduate studies program consists of modules of 50 to 100 hours each, theoretical courses, supervised and practical exercises, personal work, technical visits and field work. It leads to a Diplôme d'études postgrade en Hydrologie et gestion des ressources en eau issued jointly by the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology (EPF), Lausanne and Zürich. Most instruction modules can also be followed independently in the framework of continuing education.

Languages: French and English

Deadline for applications: June 15, 2001 For information, please contact : 
Professor A. Musy
IATE - Hydram / EPFL
GR - Ecublens,
CH - 1015 Lausanne
Tél. +41.21.6933735 / 31
Fax. +41.21.693 3739
e-mail : secretariat.cphy@epfl.ch

or visit

http://dgrwww.epfl.ch/HYDRAM/enseignement/postgrade/index.html



4.     FOURTH INTER-REGIONAL CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENT-WATER: COMPETITIVE USE
        AND CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR WATER AND NATURAL RESOURCES 
       27 - 30 August 2001 , Fortaleza, Brazil 

The conference is organized by the Brazilian Association on Irrigation and Drainage, ABID, Brazilian National Committee of the ICID; and the Brazilian Society on Agricultural Engineering, SBEA, Brazilian National Committee of the CIGR.

The conference will provide an in-depth discussion on new technologies and modernization issues for the efficient use of water, land and other natural resources. Topics include scientific, social, economical and environmental aspects which can contribute to solve competition among uses and the conservation of the water resource environment.

For more information, please visit the conference webpage: http://www.funarbe.org.br/ircew



5.     THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON LAND DEGRADATION
        LAND DEGRADATION: NEW TRENDS TOWARDS GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY
        17-21 September 2001, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Conference is open to land and water conservation researchers, educators, policymakers, practitioners, and advocates throughout the world. Besides thorough discussions and exchange of ideas and up-to-date information on the issue of land degradation, the Conference will provide excellent opportunity to extend the personal and professional networks. Mid- and Post-conference tours target at bringing colleagues from distant parts of the world together in the framework of related professional program while getting acquainted with local problems and challenges of land degradation. The Conference will contribute to the virtual library of the participants with a CD ROM containing the refereed material of invited and voluntary papers.

For more information please contact:

Dr. Beáta Madari
ICLD3 Conference Secretary
Embrapa Solos
Rua Jardim Botânico, 1024
22460-000 Rio de Janeiro, RJ
BRAZIL
Tel: (+55 21) 274 4999
Fax: (+55 21) 274 5291
E-mail: icld3@cnps.embrapa.br

or visit the conference home page: http://www.cnps.embrapa.br/ICLD



6.     INTEGRATION OF CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK:
        CONFLICTS AND SYNERGIES - 6TH MEETING OF RELACO
     4-8 November 2001, San Salvador, El Salvador

The meeting will be organized jointly by Latin American Network for Conservation Agriculture (RELACO) and FAO.

For more information contact Jose.Benites@fao.org

or visit the homepage of the Latin American Network for Conservation

Agriculture: http://www.relaco.cjb.net



ISSUE 38 - 16 MARCH 2001


CONTENTS:

PUBLICATIONS OF THE LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

  1. BOLETIN DE SUELOS DE LA FAO 75 - NUEVOS CONCEPTOS Y ENFOQUE PARA EL MANEJO DE SUELOS EN LOS TROPICOS
  2. CREDITO, ASISTENCIA TECNICA Y ORGANIZACION: DOS AÑOS DE EXPERIENCIA CON EL FONDO DE FINANCIAMIENTO CAMPESINO
  3. THE ECONOMICS OF SOIL PRODUCTIVITY IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
  4. GUIDELINES FOR PARTICIPATORY DIAGNOSIS OF CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SOIL AND PLANT NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

 NEWS FROM OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

  1. CONTEST FOR INNOVATIVE IRRIGATION IDEAS AND TECHNOLOGIES
  2. INTERNATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM - CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE GAP REGION AND ITS HYDROLOGICAL IMPACT

1) BOLETIN DE SUELOS DE LA FAO 75 - NUEVOS CONCEPTOS Y ENFOQUE PARA EL MANEJO DE
SUELOS EN LOS TROPICOS

Esta guía técnica está dirigida a capacitadores de agricultores y a extensionistas que se ocupan del manejo conservacionista de suelos y de la producción agrícola sostenible en las tierras de ladera de América Central. Se hace hincapié en la idea del aprendizaje mediante la realización de la labor, apoyándose en los conocimientos y experiencias de los agricultores. Se preconiza la comprensión del concepto de manejo adecuado de la tierra y de una producción agrícola sostenible por medio de discusiones y análisis de las causas de los problemas, sus efectos y sus posibles soluciones.

Por cualquier asunto técnico con respecto a esta publicación, y para informaciones como se puede obtener una copia, dirijase a Jose.Benites@fao.org

Este documento puede ser descargado sin costo (formato PDF, 8.8 MB) desde: ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/sb75s.pdf

Boletín de Suelos de la FAO 75 Nuevos Conceptos y enfoque para el manejo de suelos en los trópicos con énfasis en zonas de ladera
2000; 125 pp.
ISBN 92-5-304319-9

Para ordenar esta publicación dirijese a publication.sales@fao.org o visite el catálogo de las publicaciones de la FAO
http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm


2) CREDITO, ASISTENCIA TECNICA Y ORGANIZACION: DOS AÑOS DE EXPERIENCIA CON EL FONDO DE FINANCIAMIENTO CAMPESINO

Este documento del Proyecto INTA-FAO en Nicaragua, GCP/NIC/025/NOR "Sistemas Integrados de Manejo de la Fertilidad de los Suelos", presenta la experiencia adquirida a través del Fondo de Financiamiento Campesino (FFINCA) en la Región Centro Norte. El FFINCA, que ha sido creado por el Proyecto y es administrado por el Banco del Café, proporciona a los(as) agricultores(as) un servicio que comprende el apoyo crediticio para la compra de insumos, la asistencia técnica a la producción agropecuaria y la organización de los(as) productores(as) para la gestión de los servicios en grupo.

Para más información sobre la publicación y para obtener una copia, dirijase a Walter.BurgosLeon@fao.org

Este documento puede ser descargado sin costo (formato PDF, 1.1 MB) desde ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/inta.pdf

Crédito, asistencia técnica y organización: Dos años de experiencia con el Fondo de Financiamiento Campesino
2000; 61 pp.


3) THE ECONOMICS OF SOIL PRODUCTIVITY IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

The increased degradation and declining fertility of sub-Saharan African soils have been recognized as critical factors in food security and poverty alleviation. In recognition of the severity of the problem, the World Bank, FAO and partner agencies are supporting the implementation of the national Soil Fertility Initiative (SFI) action programmes as a means of resolving the situation.

Studies executed by centres of excellence, donors, universities and various international agencies provide information on how best to approach soil fertility issues from a technical perspective. The economic analysis of soil degradation problems allows articulation of policy recommendations for improving soil productivity. It is argued that economics has a contribution to make in achieving the objectives of food security and sustainable agriculture.

For technical queries regarding this publication, and to receive information on how to receive a copy, please contact Jan.Poulisse@fao.org

This document can be downloaded free of charge (PDF format, 0.7 MB) at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/ecsoilpr.pdf

The economics of soil productivity in sub-Saharan Africa
2001; 58 pp
ISBN 92-5-104522-4

To order this publication, send a request to publications-sales@fao.org or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue:
http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm


4) GUIDELINES FOR PARTICIPATORY DIAGNOSIS OF CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SOIL AND PLANT NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

These guidelines cover the use of selected methods and tools of participatory diagnosis of constraints and opportunities (PDCO) at farm household and community levels in order to better understand farmers' constraints for soil and plant nutrient management and promote their participation in finding solutions. They are aimed at soil and plant nutrition specialists and extension agents.

PDCO will:

For technical queries regarding this publication, please contact Rabindra.Roy@fao.org

To receive a copy of this publication, please contact land-and water@fao.org or download it free of charge (PDF format, 2.2 MB) from ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/misc30.pdf 

Guidelines for Participatory Diagnosis of Constraints and Opportunities for Soil and Plant Nutrient Management
AGL/MISC/30/2000
2000; 98 pp.


5) CONTEST FOR INNOVATIVE IRRIGATION IDEAS AND TECHNOLOGIES

Prize money US$ 10.000
Deadline for applications: 1 October 2001

A competition has been launched by the Irrigation Association to create the best in irrigation equipment, technology or management to serve the world's small agricultural holders. The prize will be awarded November 5, 2001 at the Irrigation Association Keynote Breakfast in San Antonio, Texas, USA. 

Entries will be judged on the following criteria:

The winner will be selected by judges chosen by the Global Task Force for Water Saving Irrigation. This program is endorsed by The World Bank, Winrock International (contributor of the prize money), The Irrigation Association, and International Development Enterprises. 

All ideas remain the property of the entrants. The sponsors are not responsible to the entrants to protect the idea or product from disclosure or any form of challenge. Awarding the $10,000 prize is at the sole discretion of the judges.

Contestants should present their ideas in writing on no more than three(3) pages. Pictures that explain the idea or products are welcome. Judges may request further information from the entrants.

For more information please contact The Irrigation Association 6540 Arlington Blvd. Falls Church, VA 22042-6638 E-mail: SmallholdersContest@irrigation.org http://www.irrigation.org/ia/worldbank.html


6) INTERNATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE GAP REGION AND ITS HYDROLOGICAL IMPACT, 2-8 April 2001, Sanliurfa, Turkey

The program is jointly organized by GAP-Regional Development Administration and Kent State University. The goal of this seminar, which is open to all experts on climate change, is to determine the climate variability in the GAP Region and its impact on the water sources and the Regional hydrology.

Objectives of the study course are to:

For more information, and to apply, please contact

Ms. Arzu Snaet
GAP Regional Development Administration
Willy Brandt Sok. No. 5, 06680 Çankaya -Ankara / TURKEY
Email: arzu-s@gap.gov.tr
Phone: +90 (312) 440 13 02 - 442 23 24/1758,1791
Fax: +90 (312) 440 13 84  


ISSUE 37 - 23 FEBRUARY 2001




CONTENTS:

ACTIVITIES OF THE LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

  1. ARID-L:INVITATION A REJOINDRE LE RESEAU PETITE IRRIGATION DE L'ARID
  2. ARID-L:INVITATION TO JOIN THE SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION NETWORK OF ARID
  3. LAND-WATER LINKAGES IN RURAL WATERSHEDS RESULTS OF THE E-WORKSHOP
    HELD IN SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2000

PUBLICATIONS OF THE LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

  1. TENDANCES ACTUELLES DU MARCHE MONDIAL DES ENGRAIS ET PERSPECTIVES
    JUSQU'EN 2004/2005
  2. TENDENCIAS ACTUALES Y PERSPECTIVAS MUNDIALES DE LOS FERTILIZANTES
    HASTA 2004/2005
  3. WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 93 - LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN ASIA
    NEWS FROM OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
  4. CGIAR SYSTEMWIDE INITIATIVE ON MALARIA AND AGRICULTURE

1.  ARID-L : INVITATION A REJOINDRE LE RESEAU PETITE IRRIGATION DE L'ARID

N'hésitez pas à transmettre cette information aux personnes que vous connaissez qui pourraient être intéressées.  

L'Association Régionale de l'Irrigation et du Drainage en Afrique de l'Ouest et du Centre, ARID, est une association à but non lucratif créée en 1996. Parmi ses produits figurent le réseau et la liste de discussion ARID-L, qui sont mis en place avec la contribution de la FAO (http://www.fao.org/landandwater), de l'IPTRID (http://www.fao.org/iptrid) and du KIT (Royal Tropical Institute néerlandais, http://www.kit.nl).

L'objectif de la liste ARID-L est d'échanger informations et expériences sur le développement et les technologies d'irrigation en Afrique de l'Ouest et du Centre. (L'information sera mise à disposition sur le site de l'ARID-L, http://www.hipponet.nl/arid-l, à mesure que'l'archivage le permettra.)

Les échanges se font principalement par mail, mais d'autres services Internet sont développés pour atteindre la diversité des personnes concernées. Cette liste ne comporte pas de messages commerciaux. Elle permet à ses utilisateurs de télécharger les lettres d'informations trimestrielles à partir du site d'ARID-L, ou d'obtenir les archives des contributions par une requête électronique. A titre indicatif, cette liste peut traiter des sujet suivant : périmètres irrigués à partir d'aquifères peu profonds, pompes, irrigation péri-urbaine ou de bas-fonds. Le réseau ainsi constitué permet également de poser des questions techniques à des pairs.

Une lettre d'information trimestrielle est produite qui fait le point sur l'actualité, les événements et formations à venir, les nouvelles publications et les postes à pourvoir, ainsi qu'une mise à jour sur les projets.

Pour nous rejoindre, envoyez un e-mail à mailserv@mailserv.fao.org, avec 'subscribe ARID-L' en première ligne de votre message et 'end' comme   seconde. Laissez l'objet en blanc.

Pour plus d'information, envoyez votre requête à: ARID-L-Moderator@mailserv.fao.org.


2. ARID-L: INVITATION TO JOIN THE SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION NETWORK OF ARID

Please, feel free to forward this information on ARID-L to anyone you know might be interested.

ARID is the Regional Association for Irrigation and Drainage in West and Central Africa, and was launched as an NGO in 1996. It has the ARID-L network and discussion list which it set up with support from FAO (http://www.fao.org/landandwater), IPTRID (http://www.fao.org/iptrid) and KIT (Dutch Royal Tropical Institute, http://www.kit.nl).

The aim of the ARID-L list is to exchange information and experiences on small-scale irrigation technology and development in West and Central Africa. (More information will be available from the ARID-L website http://www.hipponet.nl/arid-l as the contributions are archived.)

E-mail is the main means of exchange, but other types of Internet services are being made available to the wide target audience. The list does not include commercial messages, and enables users to access the archive of contributions by e-mail request, and to download newsletter articles from the Arid-L web-site. The contributions cover for example: low-lift pump schemes, pumpsets, peri-urban or low-land irrigation, etc. The network enables technical questions to be posed to peers and fellow networkers.

Arid-L network newsletter is produced four times a year and contains short news items, information on forthcoming events and courses, project updates, new publications and vacancies.  

To join this network, send an e-mail to mailserv@mailserv.fao.org, with 'subscribe ARID-L' as the first line of the message, and 'end' as the second line. The subject box should be left empty.

For more information, send your request to : ARID-L-Moderator@mailserv.fao.org.


3. LAND-WATER LINKAGES IN RURAL WATERSHEDS - RESULTS OF THE E-WORKSHOP HELD IN
   SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2000

The workshop addressed linkages between land use and water resources at a watershed scale. Discussions focused on two issues:

First, the nature and scope of biophysical impacts of land use practices, including agricultural, forestry, grazing, and preservation activities, on the hydrological regime and water quality, the importance of these impacts at different scales, and the relation between science and policy in land and water management.

Second, benefits and costs resulting from impacts of land-use to downstream resource users, and instruments and mechanisms to distribute these benefits and costs by upstream and downstream land and water users.

The archive and the summary of the discussion, background documentation as well as the 31 case studies which were submitted to the workshop can be viewed at

http://www.fao.org/landandwater/watershed

A presentation summarizing preliminary conclusions from the workshop (format PowerPoint, 0.4 MB) is available at http://www.fao.org/landandwater/watershed/papers/present.ppt

For further information regarding this workshop and related activities on FAO's Land and Water Development Division, please contact: benjamin.kiersch@fao.org


4. TENDANCES ACTUELLES DU MARCHE MONDIAL DES ENGRAIS ET PERSPECTIVES JUSQU'EN
        2004/2005

Ce rapport est basé sur la quarante neuvième édition de l'Annuaire des engrais 1999 de la FAO. Cette publication conjointe de la Division des statistiques et de la Division de la mise en valeur de la terre et des eaux de la FAO rassemble des informations sur les tendances en matière de consommation, de production et de commerce des engrais ainsi que les perspectives mondiales de l'offre et de la demande d'engrais. Le rapport présente une analyse des données pour la période 1987/88-1998/99 et des prévisions pour la période 2000/2001 à 2004/2005.

Pour toute information complémentaire concernant la publication, et pour recevoir une exemplaire, envoyez une message à Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org . Le document peut être téléchargé gratuitement (format PDF, 0,3 MB): ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/cwfto00f.pdf    


5. TENDENCIAS ACTUALES Y PERSPECTIVAS MUNDIALES DE LOS FERTILIZANTES HASTA 2004/2005

Este informe recoge información de la 49a. edición del Anuario de Fertilizantes de la FAO, 1999, y es una publicación conjunta de la División de Estadísticas de la FAO y de la División de Fomento de Suelos y Aguas. La publicación reúne información sobre tendencias en el consumo, la producción y el comercio de fertilizantes y pronostica la oferta y la demanda mundial y presenta un análisis de los datos del período 1987/88 - 1998/99 y pronósticos para el período 2000/2001 a 2004/2005.

Para más información sobre la publicación y para obtener una copia, dirijese : Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org

Este documento puede ser descargado sin costo (formato PDF, 0.5 MB) desde ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/cwfto00s.pdf


6. WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 93 - LAND RESOURCES INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN ASIA

This document contains the proceedings of the Regional Workshop on Land Resources Information Systems (LRIS) in Asia (Quezon City, January 2000), organized by the FAO Land and Water Development Division in collaboration with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management of the Philippines (BSWM).

LRIS experiences ion the countries are presented as well as recommendations for future reporting and exchange of information, data expertise and experiences in land resources information in the region, with existing networks on land and water. This includes the preparation of national and subregional reports on the state of land, water and plant nutrition resources in Asian countries during the 2000/01 biennium on the basis of FAO guidelines for dissemination through the internet.

For technical information on this publication, and for information on how to obtain a copy of the report, please contact Jacques.Antoine@fao.org.

World Soil Resources Report 93
Land Resources Information Systems in Asia
2000; 92 pp
ISBN 92-5-104516-X

To order this publication, send a request to : publications-sales@fao.org

or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue: http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm

or download it free of charge (PDF format, 1.2 MB) from: ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/wsrr93.pdf


7. CGIAR SYSTEMWIDE INITIATIVE ON MALARIA AND AGRICULTURE

The research centers of the CGIAR system are planning a new initiative which aims to improve the understanding of the links between malaria and agriculture - the Systemwide Initiative on Malaria and Agriculture (SIMA).

It will address the following issues:

The key objective of SIMA is to identify opportunities for minimizing   malaria risks through agriculture-based interventions. If current efforts to 'roll back malaria' are to be successful, these kinds of sustainable, environmentally-friendly activities are needed. These approaches will integrate with existing anti-vector and malaria-curative methods. Sub-Saharan Africa is the priority geographic focus for SIMA.

To help shape the SIMA research program an electronic consultation will be held in the following weeks to gather input from all people and organizations with an interest in malaria and agriculture research.

To join the discussion, send an e-mail to listserv@cgnet.com

Copy and paste this text into the message body:Subscribe sima <your e-mail address> (example: Subscribe sima f.bloggs@unep.org)

All organizations and individuals interested in participating in the SIMA malaria and agriculture research, are encouraged to contact the project coordinator, Dr. Clifford Mutero, at c.mutero@cgiar.org . For complete details on the SIMA malaria and agriculture initiative, see the SIMA web page:http://www.iwmi.org/sima.htm


ISSUE 36 - 16 FEBRUARY 2001


CONTENTS:

PUBLICATIONS

  1. FAO LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 12 - IRRIGATION GUIDELINES ON CD-ROM
  2. FERTILIZER STRATEGIES - ARABIC VERSION
  3. STRATEGIES EN MATIERE D'ENGRAIS
  4. ESTRATEGIAS EN MATERIA DE FERTILIZANTES
  5. WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 92 - CARBON SEQUESTRATION OPTIONS UNDER THE CLEAN DEVELOPMENT MECHANISM TO ADDRESS LAND DEGRADATION
  6. IPTRID / FAO KNOWLEDGE SYNTHESIS REPORT NO. 1 - TREADLE PUMPS FOR IRRIGATION IN AFRICA ACTIVITIES OF THE FAO LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
  7. FIRST WORLD CONGRESS ON CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE -
    1-5 OCTOBER 2001

1.      FAO LAND AND WATER DIGITAL MEDIA SERIES 12 - IRRIGATION GUIDELINES ON CD-ROM

The CD-ROM contains a collection of irrigation guidelines for small-to-medium irrigation schemes (up to 1000 ha). The aim is not solely to present existing irrigation guidelines on a CD-ROM but to use the interactive potential of this medium to assist the user in extracting information and data from the guidelines for specific purposes. A menu-driven media tool for easy orientation on the subject and for a wide range of applications has been developed for a variety of potential users. 

For technical queries regarding the CD-ROM, please contact : Reto.Florin@fao.org

or visit http://www.fao.org/landandwater/lwdms.htm

To obtain a copy of this CD-ROM, please send a request to: land-and-water@fao.org


2.     FERTILIZER STRATEGIES - ARABIC VERSION

This document presents guidelines for governments on the development of fertilizer strategies. It illustrates the difference before and after the involvement of the private sector and offers solutions for improvement. It discusses the role of fertilizers in the development of agriculture along with the factors that have an impact on their use by farmers, gives practical suggestions for decision-makers regarding production or import of fertilizers and then deals with the many issues involved in the efficient distribution and marketing of fertilizers and, finally, with the institutional framework for the integration of all these aspects into a comprehensive fertilizer policy.

For technical information, or to receive a copy of this publication, please contact: TanjavandenBergen@fao.org


3.  STRATEGIES EN MATIERE D'ENGRAIS

Le document présente aux gouvernements des orientations pour le développement de stratégies en matière d'engrais. Il illustre les différences existant avec et sans engagement du secteur privé et offre des solutions pour son amélioration. Il examine le rôle des engrais dans le développement de l'agriculture en même temps que les facteurs ayant un impact sur leur utilisation par les agriculteurs, et donne des suggestions pratiques pour les décideurs en ce qui concerne la production ou l'importation d'engrais. Il traite ensuite des nombreux sujets impliqués dans une distribution et une commercialisation efficaces des engrais.

Pour toute information complémentaire concernant la publication, ou pour recevoir un exemplaire, vous pouvez envoyer une message à: Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org ou téléchargez le document gratuitement (format PDF, 1,3 MB) de: ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertstrf.pdf



4.    ESTRATEGIAS EN MATERIA DE FERTILIZANTES

Esta publicación presenta guías destinadas a los gobiernos en materia de desarrollo de estrategias relacionadas con los fertilizantes. Se ilustran las diferencias que se observan antes y después de las intervenciones del sector privado, y se ofrecen soluciones para mejorar situaciones específicas. Se discute el papel de los fertilizantes en el desarrollo de la agricultura y los factores que repercuten en su uso por los agricultores; se formulan sugerencias prácticas para los responsables de la toma de decisiones sobre producción e importación, y se analizan los múltiples problemas relacionados con una distribución y comercialización eficientes. Finalmente, se examina el marco institucional en el cual se integra una política global de fertilizantes.

Para preguntas técnicas sobre esta publicación, y para recibir información como se puede recibir la publicación, dirijese a: Tanja.vandenBergen@fao.org

Estrategias en materia de fertilizantes
2000; 106 pp; Precio: US $ 14.00
ISBN 92-5-304351-2

Para ordenar esta publicación dirijese a: publication.sales@fao.org
o visite el catálogo de las publicaciones de la FAO: http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm

o descargue el documento sin costo (formato PDF, 0,7 MB) desde: ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertstrs.pdf


5.    WORLD SOIL RESOURCES REPORT 92 - CARBON SEQUESTRATION OPTIONS UNDER THE CLEAN
      DEVELOPMENT MECHANISM TO ADDRESS LAND DEGRADATION

This publication presents the results of a study on the origin and background of the carbon sequestration options and the clean development mechanism (CDM). It documents the outcome of the various proceedings of recent international meetings on carbon sequestration and the CDM. It reviews the ongoing programme of collaboration between IFAD and FAO on carbon sequestration and its linkage with the existing international environmental treaties, as well as the recent Global Environment Facility (GEF) and World Bank initiative.

For technical queries regarding this publication, and for information on how to obtain a copy, please contact: Jacques.Antoine@fao.org

World Soil Resources Report 92
Carbon Sequestration Options under the Clean Development
 Mechanism to Address Land Degradation
2000; 36 pp. 
Price: US$ 12.00
ISBN: 92-5-104515-1

To order this publication, send a request to : publications-sales@fao.org
or visit FAO's interactive Publications Catalogue: http://www.fao.org/catalog/giphome.htm

or download it free of charge (PDF format, 0.2 MB) from:  ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/wsrr92.pdf



6.    IPTRID / FAO KNOWLEDGE SYNTHESIS REPORT NO. 1 - TREADLE PUMPS FOR
      IRRIGATION IN AFRICA

This report, the first in a series published by the International Programme for Technology and Research in Irrigation and Drainage (IPTRID), opens by posing a question. "Are treadle pumps a viable option for Africa?" To answer this question the authors describe in simple terms what a treadle pump is and how it can be used. The aim is to present a "snap-shot" of treadle pump development in Africa by the use of four reports from Kenya, Niger, Zambia and Zimbabwe. These pumps have been very successful in South Asia and provide an affordable way to lift and move water in the quantities that farmers want. The technology is aimed at farmers with small holdings of a few hectares. The African case studies show that the treadle pump can provide an affordable means of irrigating small areas of land and allow farmers and their families to grow crops for their own consumption but also for sale. Not only can use of the treadle pump help in contributing to food security and reducing poverty by making irrigated agriculture an attractive venture but the manufacture and supply of the pumps is also creating employment and income opportunities.

The report is aimed at professionals, international development agencies and development NGOs. The authors take some time to explain the principles of manual pumping and the reasons why different designs are needed to provide practical options for farmers. The report provides a positive answer to the question. The evidence is that the treadle pump is a technology that can offer those who invest in it good returns. Much of the agriculture in Africa is smallholder based and this technology offers individuals or groups of individuals the opportunity to respond to family and market needs without government intervention. Treadle pumps are successful and are an important step to improving rural incomes throughout Africa.

For technical information on this publication, please contact: Tom.Brabben@fao.org

IPTRID/FAO Knowledge synthesis report No. 1 - October 2000
Treadle pumps for irrigation in Africa
Authors: M. Kay and T. Brabben
2000; 64 pp
ISSN 1607-6613

To receive a copy of this publication, contact the IPTRID Programme Office
FAO
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00100 Rome
Italy
Fax: +39 06 570 56275
E-mail: iptrid@fao.org

or download it from the following addresses:

http://www.fao.org/iptrid/treadle/treadlepumps.pdf (PDF File, 5.2 MB)
http://www.fao.org/iptrid/treadle/treadlepumps.zip (Zip File, 3.8 MB)


7.    FIRST WORLD CONGRESS ON CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE
      1-5 OCTOBER 2001

Centro de Convenciones, Parque Ferial Juan Carlos I (IFEMA), Madrid. An initiative of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the European Conservation Agriculture Federation (ECAF) Conservation agriculture techniques are being progressively adopted under different climatic conditions, from cold regions to tropical regions,semi-arid areas to high rainfall areas. Farmers, advisers and agricultural administrators need to be aware and further informed of the agronomic, economic and environmental benefits of these new developments and progress and therefore an aim is to encourage interaction between farmers, advisors and scientists throughout the developed and developing world.

This Congress should serve to integrate good environmental and agricultural practices into policy structures throughout the World. This conceptual process aims to match the environmental requirements of sustainable agriculture with the economic needs of the farming community. In association with the conference programme, a series of interactive workshops and field demonstrations will be held where conservation agriculture practices have been adopted / implemented for a range of crops and situations (olives, vineyards, almonds, field crops, irrigated and semi-arid).

Sessions will comprise invited oral presentations and selected offered papers. Offered contributions, as poster displays will be arranged to complement the above themes. Full titles and one page abstracts that will be citable will be required by March 31st, 2001.  

To receive further information on the Congress please visit : http://www.ecaf.org/English/Congress.htm

or contact:  

Armando Martinez-Vilela, ECAF Congress Secretariat
Institute for Sustainable Agriculture
Alameda del Obispo s/n
Apdo. 4084
14080 Córdoba (Spain)
Phone: +34.957.760797
Fax: +34.957.760797
E-mail: conservation.agriculture@ecaf.org