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IN THIS ISSUE:
Reports:
1. Report of the Second International Workshop and Steering
Committee meeting of The Globally-important Ingenious Agricultural Heritage
Systems (GIAHS) Project.
2. Finalisation of Training Materials on Land and Water
Productivity Improvement for Farmer Field Schools
3. GEF/UNEP PDF-B to develop the "Transboundary Agro-ecosystem
Management Programme for the Lower Kagera River Basin"
5. Economic valuation of water resources in agriculture
Other publications:1. Report of the Second International Workshop and Steering Committee meeting of The Globally-important Ingenious Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Project.
From 7-9 June 2004 international organisations, government representatives, experts from various scientific disciplines, NGOs and indigenous peoples' organisations met in Rome to discuss the development of a global programme to safeguard the world's outstanding traditional agricultural systems. The issues addressed included analysis of the outstanding historic and potential future value of these ingenious and indigenous agricultural systems to contribute to food security, poverty alleviation, biodiversity conservation, the delivery of diverse environmental and livelihood goods and services and overall sustainability of human-ecosystem interactions. The ongoing GEF-funded GIAHS Projects foresees a range of complementary and synergetic activities at both local level, as well as at national and international policy level to remove or mitigate threats and make use of opportunities to strengthen the sustainable management of these systems and their continued evolution and adaptation to new socio-economic and environmental circumstances. The project will be implemented in 5-10 priority systems world-wide.
The report of the meeting can be found at: http://www.fao.org/landandwater/giahs
For further information contact David.Boerma@fao.org
2. Finalisation of Training Materials on Land and Water Productivity Improvement for Farmer Field Schools
This report covers the finalisation of training materials for FFS through a 2nd and final Writeshop held in Njoro, Kenya, 24-31 October 2004.
The "writeshop" process was organised to develop a set of facilitator and training modules on land and water management for Farmer Field Schools (FFS-LWM).
Following an initial writeshop in Rome in May 2004 with selected resource persons, the Njoro writeshop allowed a wider participation. The materials address discovery based learning and experimentation by farmers on land productivity improvement in a range of crop-livestock systems, including water, biodiversity and land resources management at farm and micro-catchment level in sub-humid areas and soil and moisture management and runoff farming for dryland areas. The approach encompasses empowerment, participatory technology development, adaptive management and socio-economic and sustainability issues (including catchment management, community planning, monitoring and evaluation, financial sustainability and scaling out through farmer-led schools and national agricultural programmes).
The draft training modules and practical exercises were reviewed taking into account experiences of pilot activities in Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and Zimbabwe. Pilot experiences are captured through a generic training module that guides facilitators in planning and managing a learning process for strengthening farmers' land and water management capacity.
The outputs will include a handbook entitled "Discovery Based learning on land and water management: a practical guide for Farmer Field School facilitators" and a network of FFS-LWM process in the pilot countries and more widely in the region and beyond. Scaling up in the pilot countries will be supported through national workshops building on ongoing project and networking opportunities.
Critical needs include:
· training a cadre of FFS trainers and mainstreaming of the FFS-LWM approach
in the agriculture sector;
· providing an enabling environment and mechanisms to encourage wide farmer
adoption of better practices;
· harmonising policies and district support with needs and opportunities of
smallholder farmers.
For further information, contact Sally.bunning@fao.org
3. GEF/UNEP PDF-B to develop the "Transboundary Agro-ecosystem Management Programme for the Lower Kagera River Basin"
The FAO executed GEF/UNEP PDF-B to develop the "Transboundary Agro-ecosystem Management Programme for the Lower Kagera River Basin" has been launched through inception workshops in Uganda and Rwanda (end September 2004) and in Tanzania (mid November 2004). The national institutional arrangements and work plans are being developed with partners and the national project managers and consultants being recruited. The assessment by stakeholders and pilot communities of the status and trends in regard to land use/farming systems, biodiversity and land degradation will be planned this year and initiated in early 2005, in close collaboration with the beneficiary districts and ongoing projects in the river basin which lies on the Tanzania-Uganda border west of Lake Victoria and the Rwanda-Tanzania border. The project development phase is scheduled to be completed by March 2006 for submission to the GEF Council and during this period co-funding from governments and donors needs to be mobilised.
For further information, contact Sally.bunning@fao.org
4. FIFTH MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC: 24 March 2005 - 29 March 2005. Seoul, Republic of Korea.
This Ministerial Conference is organized by UNESCAP, UNEP, the World Bank, and Asia Development Bank. The theme of the conference is "achieving environmentally sustainable economic growth." This conference represents an important opportunity for national leaders to create an enabling environment for sustainable development across the region.
For more information contact: ESCAP;
tel: +66-2-288-1234;
fax: +66-2-288-1000;
e-mail: escap-esdd@un.org;
Internet: http://www.unescap.org/
5. Economic valuation of water resources in agriculture
Publication Series: Water Reports 27
Agriculture is coming under more and more pressure to justify its use of the
world's freshwater resources and to improve its productive and environmental
performance.
The allocations of raw water to agriculture (and the allocations within the agriculture sector) all need to be negotiated in a transparent way. This report reviews the large set of literature on the subject and makes the case for the adoption of a functional approach to water valuation as a basis for such negotiation.
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/aglw/docs/wr27e.pdf
(5.68MB)
6. Review of "Modern Land Drainage; Planning, Design and Management of Agricultural Drainage Systems". Lambert K. Smedema, Willem F. Vlotman, David W. Rycroft. A.A. Balkema Publishers. 2004.
In 1983, B T Batsford published an excellent book on Land Drainage, which was written by two leader drainage experts: Lambert K. Smedema and David W. Rycroft. The technical concepts and principles of this publication have been useful in planning and design of agricultural drainage systems for the past tw
enty years, mainly in the temperate zones and irrigated lands of the arid and semi-arid regions.In this period the context of land drainage has also evolved: first, by considering the environmental implications of land drainage development, with some positive impacts, such as control of soil salinity in irrigated lands, although some negative related to disposal of drainage water; second, the social, economic and institutional aspects of drainage development are now considered with more emphasis; third, computer developments have provided the opportunity of using simulation models and programs as useful tools for drainage planning and design. Furthermore, the scope of drainage development has been extended to the humid tropics to control waterlogging during the rainy season.
Although most of the technical principles of the previous publication are still valid, the need of a revised edition of "Land Drainage" provides added values by incorporating relevant new topics, such as developments in drainage materials (envelopes), controlled drainage, application of simulation models, etc. The result of this revision, with a new co-author in the team, Willem F. Vlotman, is "Modern Land Drainage; Planning, Design and Management of Agricultural Drainage Systems", recently published by A.A. Balkema Publishers.
This book has been structured in seven parts:
1. Basic concepts and purpose of agricultural land drainage.
2. Surface, subsurface and main drainage systems.
3. Planning and design of land drainage systems.
4. Salinity control.
5. Special topics, such as controlled drainage, interceptor drainage, drainage
of unripened soils and rice fields, and computer applications.
6. Field investigations and cost evaluation.
7. Managerial aspects, maintenance and performance assessment.
This publication will be very useful for university students of land and water engineering and by professionals who work in the agricultural water management sector, in particular those involved in land drainage projects.
Julian Martinez Beltran
Water Quality, Drainage and Salinity Management Officer
Land and Water Development Division
FAO
Julian.MartinezBeltran@FAO.org
We AGL have completed entering the AGL records of the paper maps collection into the GeoNetwork database.
Access to the DB is simple:
Click on maps and choose Paper maps Search by country name or key words such
as river, village, project name
Contact: AGL-Documentation-Centre@fao.org.
A variety of digital map data and interactive maps can also be found in the GeoNetwork database.
8. Research Fellow (RF)/Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF), Environment and Production Technology Division, The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) seeks a qualified candidate to serve as a Research Fellow (RF)/Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) for a two-year, fixed term, renewable appointment for its Environment and Production Technology Division. This position is based at IFPRI headquarters located in Washington, DC but may involve travel to any of the countries in which IFPRI carries out its research.
The Research Fellow will undertake research related to the assessment of impact, mitigation, and adaptation to global change, especially climate change and variability; water and food supply and demand analysis; nutrition, environmental and food security. The research fellow will work closely with the Division Director and other designated Research Fellow(s) on modeling of global change, including climate change scenario development for global change analysis.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 14th January or until filled. Email as attached word documents a detailed letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of at least three references to: IFPRI HRS, Position #04-162, 2033 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006.
E-mail: IFPRI-HRINTL@cgiar.org. Please include Position #04-162 in the subject line. Applications that do not include the position number and the job title will not be considered.
For more information on IFPRI: http://www.ifpri.org.
1. Regional Workshop on Promoting LADA Programme in Western
Asia and the Near East, 25-28 July 2004, Damascus, Syria
2a. Latin American Electronic Forum - Payment Schemes for
Environmental Services in Watersheds
2b. Foro Electrónico Latinoamericano - Sistemas de Pago
por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) en Cuencas Hidrográficas
3. Invitation to participate in the synthesis process
of the Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management in Agriculture (CA).
4. Electronic Forum and the FAO/Netherlands Conference on
Water for Food and Ecosystems
5. First international symposium on the Management of Tropical
Sandy Soils for Sustainable Agriculture " a holistic approach for sustainable
development of problem soils in the tropics" Khon Kaen, Thailand 28th November
- 2nd December 2005
6. Electronic Conference on: Drought Resistant Soils: Optimization
of soil moisture for sustainable plant production.
7. The VII Meeting of the Latin American Conservation Agriculture
Network (RELACO)
8. Assessing carbon stocks and modelling win-win scenarios
of carbon sequestration through land-use changes
9. Current World Fertilizer Trends and Outlook to 2008/09
10. Identification et diffusion de bonnes pratiques sur
les périmètres irrigués en Afrique de l'Ouest
11. Nutrient Response Database
Other websites:12. Dryland Farming Organisation in West Asia and North Africa
1. Regional Workshop on Promoting LADA Programme in Western Asia and the Near East, 25-28 July 2004, Damascus, Syria
The workshop was attended by 12 participants form Egypt, Islamic Republic of Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey and, Yemen have attended. The workshop was organized in partnership by FAO, ACSAD Center, Damascus; and SESRTCIC Center/ Organization of Islamic Conference in Ankara, Turkey.
This Workshop was organized to review a regional assessment of Land Degradation and hazards, the role of LADA Programme in introducing ways and means to monitor Land Degradation severity, impacts, and how to mitigate its effects and also to promote the LADA Programme at national and regional levels and encouraging co-operation among international and regional organizations; as well as relevant private sector and NGO Groups.
Member countries are recommended to assign a relevant National Institution as a "Focal Institution" to perform like a "clearing house" for LADA activities. Each "Focal Institution" is called upon to make an inventory of the various national institutions who are stakeholders of land degradation and to involve them in the implementation of LADA in a participatory approach. Member countries are urged to consider land degradation as a "national priority" and to seek the available options for LADA and to assess the current legislations and policies concerned with land degradation and enforce the low implementation agencies in order to better address the issues related to land degradation.
FAO and Partner Organizations and Institutions are recommended to continue to assist Member Countries regarding LADA-related activities and to encourage establishing operational linkage between countries through regional data and expertise exchange and sharing; as well as among national institutions.
Call for a Task Force meeting for representatives of the relevant regional and international organizations to discus LADA implementation mechanisms and to identify each party comparative advantage in delivering the planned output.
Call for a meeting of the "National Focal Institutions" to follow-up progress as well as to discus future operational steps needed.
For further information, contact:
Ghassan.Hamdallah@fao.org
2a. Latin American Electronic Forum - Payment Schemes for Environmental Services in Watersheds
The E-Forum on Payment Schemes for Environmental Services (PES) in Watersheds was held from 12 April to 21 May 2004 to exchange experiences in the design and implementation of water-related PES schemes in Latin America. During the six weeks of discussion, 215 presentations were made by 118 professionals in 26 countries representing governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, universities, the private sector and international organizations with experience in PES in watersheds throughout the region.
The discussions focused on six major issues: 1. Definition and scope of PES
schemes in watersheds
2. Design of PES schemes
3. Implementation of PES schemes
4. Impacts of PES schemes
5. PES, sensitization and awareness-raising
6. PES and legislation
The final report summarizes the contributions of participants and highlights recommendations of the Forum to different groups of PES-related actors. Furthermore, it includes a list of concrete experiences with PES presented at the Forum.
The report, as well as the discussion archive and background documentation,
is available on-line at
http://www.rlc.fao.org/foro/psa/
The complete documentation has been published on CD-ROM. To receive a copy,
please contact
benjamin.kiersch@fao.org
2b. Foro Electrónico Latinoamericano - Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) en Cuencas Hidrográficas
El Foro Electrónico sobre Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) en Cuencas Hidrográficas se llevó a cabo del 12 de abril hasta el 21 de mayo de 2004 con el fin de intercambiar experiencias en el diseño, implementación y evaluación de sistemas de PSA en cuencas en Latinoamérica y el Caribe. Durante las seis semanas de discusión, 118 profesionales de 26 países presentaron 215 intervenciones sobre experiencias en Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales en el ámbito de cuencas hidrográficas en la Región. Intervinieron expertos de organizaciones gubernamentales, organizaciones no gubernamentales, universidades, del sector privado, y de organismos internacionales.
La discusión abordó seis grandes temas:
1. Definición y alcance de PSA en cuencas
2. Diseño de sistemas de PSA
3. Ejecución de los sistemas de PSA
4. Impactos de los sistemas de PSA
5. PSA, sensibilización y concientización
6. PSA y legislación
El informe final del evento, el archivo de discusión, y los documentos compartidos
por los participantes del foro se encuentran disponible en
http://www.rlc.fao.org/foro/psa/
Además, se ha publicado un CD-ROM que con la documentación del Foro. Para pedir
una copia, favor contáctese con
benjamin.kiersch@fao.org
3. Invitation to participate in the synthesis process of the Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management in Agriculture (CA).
The Comprehensive Assessment of water management in agriculture (CA) is a 5-year multi-stakeholder effort to take stock of the performances of water management in agriculture in the past, evaluate current challenges and solutions and identify the best options for the future. It is an initiative of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) convened by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), carried out by Future Harvest Centers, FAO, research and implementing agencies, and NGOs globally.
The CA is now starting a process by which water professionals, researchers,
policy makers, donors, NGOs, water users and farmer organizations are invited
to participate in the preparation of the CA synthesis report. Teams of authors
and reviewers are being formed for each chapter of the synthesis report. Institutions
are welcome to nominate their staff to participate. Review and author teams
will be selected based on skills, experience, and diversity. Authors and reviewers
are expected to participate on a voluntary basis, without financial compensation
from the CA. Details and instructions to join the assessment process can be
found on the web site of the CA at
http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/Assessment/Index.asp
or by writing to the Secretariat at
m.ranawake@cgiar.org
4. Electronic Forum and the FAO/Netherlands Conference on Water for Food and Ecosystems
FAO and the government of the Netherlands have the pleasure to invite you to participate in an Electronic Forum on Water for Food and Ecosystems. This E-Forum aims to collect and discuss experiences from various parts of the world on appropriate management practices in integrated management of natural resources, linking water, food and ecosystems.
The E-Forum is part of the FAO/Netherlands Conference on Water for Food and Ecosystems that will be held from 31 January - 5 February 2005 in The Hague. The outcomes of this conference will be communicated to the 13th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development in April 2005, which has a focus on water issues.
In the first phase of the E-Forum, which runs from now until December 2004,
case studies are collected to build a case-study database. These case studies
should consist of short statements that are supported by a 2-3 page background
description and possibly references to more detailed documents or websites.
You are cordially invited to participate in this E-Forum by adding your knowledge
and by contributing cases and documents. More details on the E-Forum and the
Conference are accessible through
http://www.fao.org/ag/wfe2005/eforum/
from which also the guidelines for the submission of case studies can be downloaded.
5. First international symposium on the Management of Tropical Sandy Soils for Sustainable Agriculture " a holistic approach for sustainable development of problem soils in the tropics" Khon Kaen, Thailand 28th November - 2nd December 2005
The symposium is organised by L'Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD), and co-organized by Land Development Department (LDD), Thailand International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), University of Khon Kaen and CSIRO Land and Water.
The specific objectives of the symposium are to provide a platform for knowledge exchange between scientists, extension practitioners and policy makers on:
1.Issues of land and water degradation associated with agroecosystems dominated by light textured soils within the tropics.
2.Indigenous and innovative options for the sustained management and remediation of degraded land and water resources.
3.Socio-economic imperatives that influence degradation and remediation of these agroecosystems.
For more information:
http://203.209.62.252/tropicalsandysoils/
or contact:
a.noble@cgiar.org,
6. Electronic Conference on: Drought Resistant Soils: Optimization of soil moisture for sustainable plant production.
AGL is organizing an Electronic Conference on: Drought Resistant Soils: Optimization of soil moisture for sustainable plant production. The goal of the e-conference is to identify, describe, discuss and promote actions that will help farmers to improve water-use efficiency in rainfed agriculture. The goal of the e-conference is to identify, describe, discuss and promote actions that will assist farmers to improve water-use efficiency in rainfed agriculture. Generally, applicable as well as locally adapted practices that affect evaporation, rainfall interception, drainage and runoff will be considered, with their effects on soil moisture and crop transpiration. Indirect agronomic and environmental effects and externalities, (positive or negative) will also be considered, including water and matter that moves off-site, i.e. that transfers downslope and downstream.
For more information please contact:
Jose Benites, AGLL Jose.Benites@fao.org
Florent Maraux, AGLW Florent.Maraux@fao.org
Alexandra Bot, Consultant sandra.bot@terra.com.pe
7. The VII Meeting of the Latin American Conservation Agriculture Network (RELACO)
Title: Environmental Services and Conservation Agriculture: Option for Development will be held in San José, Costa Rica from 16 to 19 November 2004. This RELACO meeting can provide a forum through which the initiative on Payment for Environmental Services (PES), carried out jointly by the Global Mechanism (GM), the FAO Investment Centre (TCI) and other Technical Departments. Conservation Agriculture which is now adopted on millions of hectares mostly in the Americas, holds a greater promise on payments for Environmental Services, especially for semi-arid areas where improved rainfall productivity and soil structure maintenance are essential elements of improved agriculture.
The meeting will cover the following subjects:
1. Sustainable Production and Environment.
2. Agro forestry and Environmental Services.
3. Conservation Agriculture, Environmental Services and Rural Development.
4. Watershed Management, Conservation Agriculture and Environmental Services.
5. Environmental Services Payment in Latin American and Conservation Agriculture
Adoption.
6. Soil Conservation Systems in the tropics.
7. IPM and Biotechnology.
For more information, please contact Mr. Nils Solórzano Villarreal. National
Coordinator of RENACO
nilsolor@racsa.co.cr or
José Benites, AGLL, FAO Jose.Benites@fao.org
8. Assessing carbon stocks and modelling win-win scenarios of carbon sequestration through land-use changes
This publication presents a methodology and software tools for assessing carbon stocks and modelling scenarios of carbon sequestration that were developed and tested in pilot field studies in Mexico and Cuba. The models and tools enable the analysis of land use change scenarios in order to identify in a given area (watershed or district) land use alternatives and land management practices that simultaneously maximize food production, maximize soil carbon sequestration, maximize biodiversity conservation and minimize land degradation. The objective is to develop and implement "win-win" options that satisfy the multiple goals of farmers, land users and other stakeholders in relation to food security, carbon sequestration, biodiversity and land conservation.
Contact: Jacques.Antoine@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/carbonstocks.pdf
(2.78MB)
For more information:
http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/carbonsequestration/
9. Current World Fertilizer Trends and Outlook to 2008/09
The report presents world nitrogen, phosphate and potash fertilizer medium term supply and demand projections for the period 2003/04- 2008/09. The FAO/Fertilizer Organizations Working Group made the forecasts in June 2004.
This report draws on the fifty first edition of the FAO Fertilizer Yearbook (2003). It is a joint publication of the FAO Statistical Analysis and Land and Plant Nutrition Management Services and brings together information on trends in fertilizer consumption, production and trade. Based on this information, FAO, in collaboration with experts from the Working Group dealing with fertilizer production and trade, provides five-year forecasts of world and regional fertilizer supply and demand balances.
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/cwfto08.pdf
(399kB)
10. Identification et diffusion de bonnes pratiques sur les périmètres irrigués en Afrique de l'Ouest
Dans le cadre du projet "Identification et diffusion de bonnes pratiques d'irrigation en Afrique de l'Ouest" financé par le ministère français des affaires étrangères, l'IPTRID a développé pendant deux ans un partenariat avec l'EIER, le PSI-CORAF, l'AFARTCT, l'AMVS, le PSSA et la Senagrhy SA, pour suivre douze périmètres irrigués de cinq pays d'Afrique de l'Ouest (Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritanie, Niger et Sénégal) pendant une, deux ou trois campagnes. Les objectifs de ce projet étaient d'identifier, de caractériser et d'évaluer les pratiques à l'échelle du périmètre et de la parcelle, qu'elles soient individuelles ou collectives, organisationnelles, techniques ou financières, et de diffuser par des moyens appropriés celles identifiées comme ayant des résultats positifs. Le projet visait également à dresser un bilan des filières rizicoles dans la région.
Contact : Sara.Fernandez@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/docrep/fao/007/y5257f/y5257f00.pdf
(380kB)
11. Nutrient Response Database
http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/nrdb/index.jsp
The FAO/AGL database on plant nutrient responses allows the extraction of yield data per agro-ecological zone for the main food crops in about 30 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The extracted data enable the estimation of fertilizer input- and crop output ratios for projection of future fertilizer application to support increased crop yield targets. The aim is to make the data base more global; for this purpose research institutes, universities, projects etc. are invited to enrich the database with their data on crop responses.
12. Dryland Farming Organisation in West Asia and North Africa
Dryland Farming Organisation is the not-for-profit organisation aims to improve:
* The returns to farmers (particularly small farmers) through increased output
and reduced cost,
* Increase the output of meat, cereals and other farm products,
* Improve the sustainability of the farming system through reduced soil erosion.
The objective of the Dryland Farming Organisation is to improve the rainfed farming systems of North Africa and West Asia.
FAO's Land and Water Development Division on the internet:
Website: http://www.fao.org/landandwater
E-mail: Land-and-water@fao.org
Back issues of the Land and Water Electronic Newsletter:
http://www.fao.org/landandwater/newsletter
2. Fertilizer use by crop in Brazil
3. Fertilizer use by crop in Pakistan
4. Uso de fertilizantes por cultivo en Argentina
5. Methods and materials in soil conservation - a Manual
6. CD-ROM # 18 rev. 1 - Agricultura de Conservación (versión bilingüe Inglés y español)
7. CD-ROM # 26: Training Course on Water Harvesting
8. CD-ROM # 27 - Conservation of natural resources for sustainable agriculture: training modules
9. CD-ROM # 28: Photo library on soil erosion processes
10. International Conference on Innovative Practices For Sustainable Sloping Lands And Watershed Management, 5-9 September 2004, Chiang Mai, Thailand
11. The restoration of African farm- and rangeland through the integrated use of soils, water, nutrients, and biota - A comparison of approaches and experiences of different African regions from August 23rd to 26th , Accra (Ghana)
1. International Soil Conservation Organisation Conference (ISCO-13), Brisbane, Australia, 4-8 July 2004
FAO's Land and Water Development Division participated in the International Soil Conservation Organisation Conference (ISCO-13), Brisbane, Australia, 4-8 July 2004. To promote collaboration in programmes on land and water resources/agro-ecosystems management and planning including the FAO executed Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands (LADA). In particular there was an FAO sponsored special session to raise awareness and encourage collaboration in the international Soil Biodiversity Initiative Partnership for soil health and soil biological management for sustainable, productive and viable agro-ecosystems. This is hoped to lead to more attention in future activities of ISCO members and collaborative partnerships on soil health and enhancing biological functioning for improved productivity and ecosystem services (nutrient cycling, C sequestration, hydrological regime, etc.) Case studies and suggestions for collaboration are invited from resource persons/ participating organisations for a special session booklet and CD Rom.
For further information, contact Sally.bunning@fao.org
And consult the webpage at:
http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/soilbiod/default.stm
2. Fertilizer use by crop in Brazil
Brazil is the world's largest producer of coffee, sugar cane and citrus and is the world's second largest producer of soybeans. Agricultural production has increased more than threefold during the past 30 years and the use of mineral fertilizers has increased correspondingly. Multidisciplinary agricultural research has permitted a major agricultural development of the Cerrado region, once considered to be marginal for agriculture. Advanced production techniques are used to produce the major export crops. No-till systems are currently applied on almost 40 percent of the grain crop area. While yield levels of the major export crops are good, the average yields of food crops for domestic consumption are low. Most of the numerous small-scale, often subsistence, farmers use little or no fertilizers. Rural poverty is a major problem in some regions of Brazil and could be alleviated by improved agricultural productivity.
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertusebrazil.pdf (1.83MB)
3. Fertilizer use by crop in Pakistan
Pakistan has a population of over 150 million people, growing at an annual rate of two percent, with almost a third living below the poverty level. A threefold increase in food crop production during the past thirty years has been made possible by a thirteen fold increase in fertilizer use. However, fertilizer usage is far removed from known, recommended practices with consequent ineffi ciencies, loss of yield, fi nancial waste and the loss of plant nutrients to the environment.
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertusepakistan.pdf (3.38MB)
4. Uso de fertilizantes por cultivo en Argentina
Argentina es un importante productor mundial y exportador de soja, maíz y trigo así como de otros productos agropecuarios. Este trabajo examina los sistemas de cultivo en las diferentes regiones del país. Se analizan las razones del extraordinario aumento en el uso de fertilizantes en la primera mitad de los años 1990. Se describen el suministro, la distribución y los factores económicos, así como la infraestructura de investigación y extensión para fertilizantes. Finalmente se consideran las limitaciones para aumentar el consumo de fertilizantes y los factores que afectan a las perspectivas de la demanda de los fertilizantes.
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertuseargent_s.pdf (4.67MB)
5. Methods and materials in soil conservation - a Manual
In a context of land use classification in the developing world, deforestation and road construction are only two elements of land degradation. This manual sets out how to use local materials and techniques that can be implemented by the indigenous population under guidance, through investigation, design, construction and planned maintenance. Materials include natural stone, geotextiles and vegetation combinations. The text is extensively illustrated. The background theory of the approach is given in some detail. This volume was planned with the late Prof. N.W. Hudson and David Sanders,1995.
Contact : Jose.Benites@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/mmsoilc.pdf (3.40MB)
6. CD-ROM # 18 rev. 1 - Agricultura de Conservación (versión bilingüe Inglés y español)
Este CD-ROM contiene información detallada y artículos sobre la Agricultura de Conservación destinados a completar los conocimientos de las personas interesadas en mejorar este concepto de agricultura sostenible. El CDROM proporciona a los técnicos y a los responsables de la toma de decisiones políticas información y argumentos que podrán ayudar a apoyar, promover e introducir la Agricultura de Conservación.
Para ordenar copias gratuitas, contacte por E-Mail a:
José Benites: Jose.Benites@fao.org
con copia a Pilar.Pazos@fao.org
Para ordenar más de una copia por favor contactar:
publications-sales@fao.org
7. CD-ROM # 26: Training Course on Water Harvesting
This CD-ROM provides training modules and other relevant materials on water harvesting in five languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French and Spanish), focusing on 'runoff farming systems' for improved rainfed agriculture in (semi-) arid areas. Objectives of this training material are (i) to raise awareness of technical staff, extension workers and other stakeholders on available water harvesting options and (ii) to build local capacity on the use of available data for local planning, systematic design and sustainable implementation of water harvesting systems. The training modules of this CD-ROM form the basis of in-country training workshops. Requests for technical assistance for the organization of such in-country workshops can be put forward through the FAO Representative of that interested country to the Director of the Land and Water Development Division, FAO, Rome.
Contact: Ines Beernaerts(AGLW): Ines.Beernaerts@fao.org
Copies of this CD-ROM can be ordered from:
publication-sales@fao.org
8. CD-ROM # 27 - Conservation of natural resources for sustainable agriculture: training modules
The objectives of these training modules are to raise awareness of CA benefits and to provide materials for technical training for promoters who are much in demand at training, seminars and field days. This CD-ROM provides practical information about the different principles of conservation of natural resources for sustainable agriculture. The training guide consists of the following modules: concepts and principles of Conservation Agriculture; cover crops; soil (organic matter and biological activity, soil quality assessment, preventing compaction, fertility, moisture); tools and equipment; weeds; pests and diseases; livestock; economic benefits and exercises for learning-by-doing.
For a free complimentary copy of the CD-ROM, please contact :
Jose.Benites@fao.org
For more than one copy, copies can be ordered from:
publication-sales@fao.org
9. CD-ROM # 28: Photo library on soil erosion processes
The trilingual photolibrary is a complementary and technically annotated photography annex to the "Guidelines for mapping and measurement of rainfall-induced erosion processes in the Mediterranean coastal areas" [United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Mediterranean Action Plan and the Priority Action Programme], which are also included on this CD ROM and gives guidelines and illustrations for mapping soil erosion processes.
For further information or feed-back on the CD-ROM and for ordering the product, please contact Wolfgang Prante at agl-webmaster@fao.org
website: http://www.fao.org/landandwater/agll/photolib/index_e.htm
10. International Conference on Innovative Practices For Sustainable Sloping Lands And Watershed Management, 5-9 September 2004, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Theme: Sustainable Smallholder Land and Water Management in Sloping Upland Areas for Food, Livelihoods and Nature
Please fill the registration form and send back to the 2004 SSWM secretariat within 10th, August 2004
For further information please contact:
Kukiat SOITONG
Secretary of 2004 SSWM the International Conference on Innovative Practices for Sustainable Sloping Land and Watershed Management,
Department of Agricultural Extension, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Phaholyothin Road, Chatuchak,Bangkok10900,Thailand.
Tel. (66-2) 579-1981, Fax: (66-2) 940-6123,(66-2)940-6101
E-mail: agriman22@doae.go.th, ksoitong@doae.go.th
And also please check http://sswm.doae.go.th
11. The restoration of African farm- and rangeland through the integrated use of soils, water, nutrients, and biota - A comparison of approaches and experiences of different African regions from August 23rd to 26th , Accra (Ghana)
An international workshop organised by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Humboldt University, Berlin, the FAO , and the Volkswagen Foundation on the workshop.
The major goals of this workshop are to present and discuss state of the art science on land restoration methods, confront scientific approaches with stakeholder experience in land restoration, synthesize lessons learned for different ecological, socio-economic and political contexts, draft a manual on "best practices", and initiate new research to fill the knowledge gaps in land restoration.
For further information, please contact:
Dr B. Barry, Researcher IWMI Accra, Ghana
Tel/Fax: 00233 21 784752
E.mail: b.barry@cgiar.org
12. FAO is Seeking 3 National Project Coordinators-NPCs and Consultants for Transboundary Agro-Ecosystem Management Programme of the Kagera River Basin in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania (GEF/UNEP PDF B).
Are you a dynamic and competent person, with practical technical and project experience on agro-environmental interface in E & C Africa?
NPCs, with support of Technical Advisory and Project Steering Committees, to supervise:
1) River basin analysis of land use/management practices and their impacts, pressures and causes of degradation; 2) Identification of opportunities/priorities for full GEF project, to promote productive and sustainable land use/management practices and livelihood strategies that generate local/national and global environmental benefits; 3) Project formulation for implementation of integrated ecosystem management programme across the Kagera river basin (flows from Rwanda/Burundi via Uganda and Tanzania into Lake Victoria). The project will address range, agro-pastoral and arable lands, and will aim to rehabilitate degraded lands and achieve local and global benefits through sustained productivity, biodiversity conservation, protection of international waters and, through enhanced carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation.
Tasks during project development phase (PDF B) will include: project planning and management; knowledge sharing/coordination; community assessment, planning and pilot testing in target farming systems/farm types; identification of mechanisms (local, technical, policy levels) to promote adoption of improved practices; organising meetings, workshops, visits, demonstrations for capacity building.
NPCs: 18 months, as from August 2004 in Bukoba, Tanzania; Mbarare or Ntungamo, Uganda; and Kigali, Rwanda
Qualifications: Master's degree, or equivalent, and practical experience (with government/research/NGO/project) in land resources planning/management, agricultural development, or related subject. Good communication, organization and computer skills; Fluent English (and French for Rwanda) and, preferably, local language.
Also seeking NRM/agro-ecosystems consultant(s) for technical support through short, frequent visits: integrated ecosystem management and multi-stakeholder approaches; catchment- and community-based participatory diagnosis, action planning and monitoring; technical surveys, information system, policy briefs and project formulation.
Qualifications: GEF project development experience; over 12 years agro-ecosystems/NRM appraisal and management experience (some in the region). Master's degree, or equivalent, in land resources, agricultural development or related subject; preferably fluent English and French.
If interested please send c.v. and indication of availability
1) NPC posts to FAO Representation and FAO Regional Office, Accra
2)Consultants to Catherine.Gaury@fao.org, Land and Water Development Division, FAO-Rome
1. Your Insights Will Make a Difference
Events:2. ICID-IPTRID/FAO Special session on Capacity needs Assessment
in Agricultural Water Management, 6 September 2004, Moscow.
3. FAO-UNEP EIP-30, Addressing Water-Related Environmental
Impacts in Agriculture for the Next 30 Years: the Volta River Basin Study, 2-4
June 2004, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
4. 2nd technical workshop and steering committee meeting
of the Globally-important Ingenious Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Project,
7-9 June 2004, FAO, Rome
5. 3rd Annual Public Participation GIS Conference (opportunity
for PPGIS / P-GIS practitioners)
6. An international workshop on African Water Laws: Plural
Legislative Frameworks for Rural Water Management in Africa, 26-28 January,
2005, Gauteng, South Africa
7. Beijing, Session 1 on Land and Water Use, The 7th Inter-Regional
Conference on Environment-Water "Land and Water Management: Decision Tools and
Practice", 11-14th October, 2004, Beijing, P.R. China
8. 2004 China TCDC International Training Course on the
Technology and Management of Efficient Irrigation (10 November - 20 October,
2004)
9. The Economics of Conservation Agriculture (Arabic Version)
10. Estimaciones globales de las emisiones gaseosas de
NH3, NO y N2O provenientes de las tierras agrícolas
11. Guide sur la Gestion et la Conservation des Sols et
des Éléments Nutritifs pour les Champs-écoles des Agriculteurs
12a. Payment schemes for environmental services in watersheds,
Land and Water Discussion Paper No 3
12b. Sistemas de pago por servicios ambientales en cuencas
hidrograficas, Land and Water Discussion Paper No 3
13. Integrated Nutrient Management -- A glossary of terms
14. Visual soil assessment for olive orchards and Vineyard
Field guide
Other Publications:
15. Proceedings of the IPI-ISSCAS Workshop on Nutrient
management in China, Part 1 "Nutrient balances and nutrient cycling in agro-ecosystems"
16. National Soil Degradation Maps for Africa, based on
GLASOD (UNEP/ISRIC)
17. Photolibrary on Soil Erosion Processes
18. Water Quality and Environment Programme
19. Outputs of 1st Southeast Asia Water Forum (17-21 November 2003 in Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Reports20. Regional Workshop on Land Degradation Assessment in
Drylands (LADA) in the Caribbean (3-7 February2004 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad)
21. International Seminar "Role and Importance of Integrated
Soil and Water Management for Orchards Development (Vineyards and Olive Trees)"
held from 9-10 May 2004 in Mosciano S. Angelo, Italy
22. Regional Writeshop to review lessons learnt and develop
training materials for farmer field schools on soil and water management (FFS-SWM),
Rome, 13-21 May 2004
23. LADA Meeting Rome 24-26 May 2004
24. The Expert Consultation on Water Desalination for Agricultural
Applications, 26-27 April, Roma
1. Your Insights Will Make a Difference
(English)
In an effort to improve our programmes, the Land and Water Development Division
of FAO is implementing a participatory (auto)evaluation of its efforts related
to Land and Water Information Systems . Over the next few months, we will be
asking your assistance in evaluating the programme's activities and products.
As a first step, the next issue of the Land and Water Newsletter will include
a survey for your response. When that survey arrives, we would be most grateful
if you would take the few moments necessary to provide your feedback and share
your insights for improving the programme. We value your input and your responses
will make a difference. Thank you in advance for your help.
(Français)
En vue d'améliorer ses programmes, la division de la mise en valeur des terres
et des eaux de la FAO met en oeuvre une (auto)évaluation participative de ses
efforts en matière de systèmes d'information sur les terres et les eaux. Durant
les prochains mois, nous ferons appel à vous pour évaluer les activités et les
produits du programme. La première étape consistera à inclure une enquête dans
le prochain bulletin d'information sur les terres et les eaux, à laquelle nous
vous demanderons de vouloir bien répondre. Lorsque l'enquête vous parviendra,
nous vous serions très reconnaissants de prendre le peu de temps nécessaire
pour répondre et partager vos idées afin d'améliorer le programme. Nous accordons
une grande importance à vos apports dont nous sommes certain de la valeur.
Nous vous remercions par avance pour votre aide.
(Español)
La Dirección de Fomento de Tierras y Aguas de la FAO está elaborando una auto
evaluación participativa orientada a mejorar su sistema de información de Tierras
y Aguas. En los próximos meses le solicitaremos su ayuda para evaluar las actividades
de nuestro programa y sus productos. Como un primer paso, en el próximo número
de la carta circular de Tierras y Aguas, incluiremos un cuestionario de preguntas.
Cuando reciba este cuestionario le agradeceríamos que se tome un tiempo para
enviarnos sus comentarios y sus sugerencias para mejorar nuestro programa. Nosotros
apreciaremos mucho sus contribuciones y respuestas las cuáles nos ayudarán a
mejorar nuestro programa. Muchas gracias por anticipado por su valiosa ayuda.
2. ICID-IPTRID/FAO Special session on Capacity needs Assessment in Agricultural Water Management, 6 September 2004, Moscow.
The purpose of the meeting will be to present and discuss a first draft of a methodological guideline for Capacity needs Assessment in Agricultural Water Management. Emphasis will be put on the obstacles and risks encountered during the assessment process.
The presentations and associated plenary discussions will take forward the establishment of guiding principles for capacity needs assessment and development planning.
This is part of the activities of the ICID Working Group on Capacity Building, Training and Education.
For further information please contact:
IPTRID Secretariat
Land and Water Development Division
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Contact person on the workshop: Sonia.Tato@fao.org
http://www.fao.org/iptrid/
3. FAO-UNEP EIP-30, Addressing Water-Related Environmental Impacts in Agriculture for the Next 30 Years: the Volta River Basin Study, 2-4 June 2004, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
After the First Project Design meeting of the FAO-UNEP project, "Addressing Water-related Environmental Impacts in Agriculture for the next 30 years" (EIP-30), on 15-17 December in Rome, a Preliminary Project Proposal for the EIP-30 project has been developed. Discussion among global modelling experts has taken place on 6-7 May 2004 in Rome on the available methodologies, and a test run for downscaling the global assessment model to the level of a specific river basin is anticipated for one pilot study. The Volta River Basin has been chosen as a suitable candidate for a trial run of Strategic Environmental Assessment methods and a meeting in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on 2-4 June 2004, will bring together a group of local and regional experts; i.e., IWMI, Glowa in Ghana, IRD and EIER.
The meeting will look into the feasibility, use and needs of water resources modelling in the Volta basin by comparing the following tools:
· evaluation of future water perspectives as calculated with global models,
· basin assessment, building on national and regional data,
· further development on a number of alternative scenarios with a restricted
number of stakeholder representatives.
A final Project Design Meeting on this joint FAO-UNEP initiative will be held on 21-23 June 2004 in Rome to discuss the results of the former activities and prepare for the final project proposal.
Contact : Sasha.Koo@fao.org
4. 2nd technical workshop and steering committee meeting of the Globally-important Ingenious Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Project, 7-9 June 2004, FAO, Rome
The workshop and steering committee meeting initiates second stage (PDF-B) of this Global Environmental Facility (GEF) Project. The objectives of meeting are to develop a methodological framework and project strategy for the implementation of the initiative and to select 5-10 pilot systems of the project. The project aims to establish the basis for international recognition, dynamic conservation and sustainable management of Globally-important Ingenious Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) and their associated biodiversity, knowledge systems and cultures throughout the world. A new category of World Heritage sites is expected to be created with specific participatory action plans in 5-10 pilot sites /systems, as well as activities to leverage global, regional and national policies and institutional support. Project partners include UNESCO, UNDP, GEF, CGIAR-centres, Governments, NGOs, Indigenous peoples and scientific institutions.
contact: David.Boerma@fao.org
http://www.fao.org/landandwater/agll/giahs
5. 3rd Annual Public Participation GIS Conference (opportunity for PPGIS / P-GIS practitioners)
Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) has organised the 3rd Annual Public Participation GIS Conference to be held on July 18-20, 2004 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA. The conference will host a track on PPGIS in International Settings and a roundtable on PPGIS in developing countries.
More information: http://www.urisa.org/ppgis.htm
6. An international workshop on African Water Laws: Plural Legislative Frameworks for Rural Water Management in Africa, 26-28 January, 2005, Gauteng, South Africa
The aim of this workshop is to explore the options for a more enabling legislative environment in rural areas. Scholars, policy makers, implementers, and representatives from NGOs and rural networks are invited to submit papers for presentation. Abstracts (300-400 words together with authors name(s), organization(s), address and e-mail) should be sent by 30 June 2004 to Barbara van Koppen.
Organizing committee
Dr. Barbara van Koppen, Principal Researcher, International Water Management
Institute, Africa Regional Program (b.vankoppen@cgiar.org)
Dr. Ibrahim Juma, Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
(i_juma@uccmail.co.tz)
Dr. John Butterworth, National Resources Institute, University of Greenwich,
UK (j.a.butterworth@gre.ac.uk)
For more information see:
http://www.nri.org/waterlaw/workshop.htm
7. Beijing, Session 1 on Land and Water Use, The 7th Inter-Regional Conference on Environment-Water "Land and Water Management: Decision Tools and Practice", 11-14th October, 2004, Beijing, P.R. China
The 2004 CIGR International Conference Beijing, which will be held in Beijing from October 11th to 14th, 2004, is a forum on agricultural engineering in the new millennium. As the main part of the Conference, the 7th Inter-Regional Conference on Environment and Water, entitled "Land and Water Management: Decision Tools and Practice" will be held on the same occasion in association with Session 1 on Land and Water Use.
The Conference aims at promoting exchanges and collaboration on land and water management and offers opportunities for researchers, scholars, managers and other professionals to share the latest information and findings, thus providing a discussion forum on environment and water issues approached from the global perspective. The topics of the conference include all scientific issues and technologies for improving strategies for the use and management of land and water in order to achieve improved productivity, sustainable development in using the natural resources, environment conservation and enhancement, and the minimization of risks to people and their society.
For further information, consult the conference web page at:
http://www.2004cigr.org/envirowater2004/
or
http://www.cau.edu.cn/ciicta/
Conference Secretariat office:
Chinese-Israeli International Center for Training in Agriculture (CIICTA)
P. O. Box 151, China Agricultural University (CAU), East Campus Qinghua Donglu
17, Beijing
100083, P. R. China
Tel: 86-10-62337154 or 62337148, Fax: 86-10-62337138
Email: Ciicta@public.bta.net.cn
8. 2004 China TCDC International Training Course on the Technology and Management of Efficient Irrigation (10 November - 20 October, 2004)
China Agricultural University (CAU) is organizing a TCDC International Training Course on the Technology and Management of Efficient Irrigation from Sept. 10 to Oct. 20, 2004. The training course were designed to extend and transmit the technologies and experiences on efficient irrigation practiced in China to the developing countries, to promote the economic and technological cooperation and exchanges of China with the related developing countries. Through theoretical training and field demonstrations, the participants will have a good master of the professional knowledge and the practically useful skills. The training course will be given at China Agricultural University in Beijing, P.R.China.
The course is targeted for mainly technical and managerial personnel currently engaged in water saving irrigation technology from the developing countries and the applicant should meet some requirements for admission.
Organizing institute: Training Center, East Campus, China Agricultural University,
Box 151, China Agricultural University, No. 17 Qinghua Donglu, Bejing 100083,
P. R. China
Liaison Persons: Prof. Dr. Huang Guanhua, Mr. Huang Quanzhong, Ms. Lu Jun, Dr.
Qi Lijun
Tel: 86-10-62337154/62337144/62336164
Fax: 86-10-62337138
E-mail: ciicta@cau.edu.cn
ciicta@public.bta.net.cn
9. The Economics of Conservation Agriculture (Arabic Version)
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/ecconsagr_a.pdf
(264kB)
10. Estimaciones globales de las emisiones gaseosas de NH3, NO y N2O provenientes de las tierras agrícolas
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or download at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/globest_s.pdf
(1.02MB)
11. Guide sur la Gestion et la Conservation des Sols et des Éléments Nutritifs pour les Champs-écoles des Agriculteurs
Ces directives et matériel de référence visent l'adoption et la mise en application du champécole des agriculteurs pour de meilleures pratiques de Conservation et de Gestion Intégrée des Sols et des Nutriments des plantes (GISN), dans le but de préserver les ressources naturelles (principalement le sol et les nutriments) et d'améliorer la productivité du sol et les revenus agricoles des petits producteurs.
Ce document propose des directives de référence pour la conception et la mise en application de l'approche champ-école des agriculteurs. Il est destiné aux facilitateurs de cette formation, pour produire des programmes et des manuels spécifiques locaux ou nationaux sur la vulgarisation agricole, l'agronomie, la science du sol, la nutrition des plantes, la conservation des sols et d'autres domaines de gestion agricole.
Contact : Walter.BurgosLeon@fao.org
It is available for on-line reading and/or downloading at
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/misc27f.pdf
(3.67MB )
12a. Payment schemes for environmental services in watersheds, Land and Water Discussion Paper No 3
Payment schemes for environmental services (PES) are innovative instruments for natural resources management which are increasingly applied in Latin America. In a watershed context, PES schemes generally involve the implementation of market mechanisms to compensate upstream landowners in order to maintain or modify a particular land use, which is affecting the availability and/or quality of the water resources for downstream users. The Regional Forum on Payment Schemes for Environmental Services in Watersheds was held in Arequipa, Peru, in June 2003. This report summarises the lessons and recommendations of the Forum. The complete documentation, including 19 papers, 22 presentations and case studies, is included on the CD-ROM which accompanies this volume.
The publication is available for download at:
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/aglw/docs/lwdp3_es.pdf
(3.24MB).
For more information, please visit:
http://www.rlc.fao.org/prior/recnat/foro.htm
(Spanish only)
Contact: Benjamin.Kiersch@fao.org
12b. Sistemas de pago por servicios ambientales en cuencas hidrograficas, Land and Water Discussion Paper No 3
El Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) es un instrumento innovador para la gestión de recursos naturales que es aplicado crecientemente en América Latina.. Los sistemas de PSA en cuencas hidrográficas generalmente involucran la implantación de mecanismos de mercado para la compensación a los propietarios de tierras aguas arriba con el fin de mantener o modificar un uso particular del suelo que afecta la disponibilidad y/o la calidad del recurso hídrico para los usuarios aguas abajo. El Foro Regional sobre Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales en Cuencas Hidrográficas se llevó a cabo en Arequipa, Perú, junio 2003. El presente informe resume las principales conclusiones y recomendaciones del Foro. La documentación completa, que comprende 19 trabajos, 22 presentaciones y estudios de caso, se encuentra disponible en el CD-ROM adjunto a esta publicación.
La publicación está disponible en:
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/aglw/docs/lwdp3_es.pdf
(3.24MB).
Para más información, visite:
http://www.rlc.fao.org/prior/recnat/foro.htm
Contactese con: Benjamin.Kiersch@fao.org
13. Integrated Nutrient Management -- A glossary of terms
In order to extend the approach of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) from the laboratory to the land, field functionaries at various levels need a clear understanding of the various concepts, phrases and terms associated with INM. To facilitate this, the FAO and the Fertiliser Development and Consultation Organisation (FDCO), India joined efforts in publishing this glossary. The various terms and phrases included in this glossary are related directly or indirectly to INM. These cover various aspects of plant nutrients, mineral fertilizers, organic manures, recyclable wastes and biofertilizers. The coverage encompasses the broad disciplines of agronomy, soil science, resource management, plant physiology, microbiology, trade, economics and extension. The glossary not only provides simple definitions and explanations of the various terms and phrases involved, but also provides a better understanding of the available technical literature.
Contact : Rabindra.Roy@fao.org or fdco@vsnl.net
14. Visual soil assessment for olive orchards and Vineyard Field guide
These two guidelines are based on the methodology developed by Graham Shepherd (the soil part) and had been adapted to vineyard and olive trees by Fabio Stagnari, Michele Pisante and Jose Benites. These guidelines are still a rough draft; however represent a preliminary step in the development of a farmer useable methodology for Soil Visual Assessment (SVA) adapted to annual crops, pastures, vegetables and orchards. Soil Visual Assessment describes and evaluates the morphological condition of soils in the field. This is a more rapid and immediate method of soil assessment than the conventional sets of soil physical measurements commonly used, eg bulk density, water infiltration, soil strength, etc.
As such, the SVA system aims to fill the need for a simple, repeatable, low cost monitoring system to capture the condition and trend, and extent and ramifications of soil. We would appriciate if you give your feedback to us.
For free copies and more information please contact Prof. Michele Pisante pisante@unite.it copied to Jose.Benites@fao.org
15. Proceedings of the IPI-ISSCAS Workshop on Nutrient management in China, Part 1 "Nutrient balances and nutrient cycling in agro-ecosystems"
IPI released the Proceedings of the IPI-ISSCAS Workshop on Nutrient management in China, Part 1 "Nutrient balances and nutrient cycling in agro-ecosystems", edited by R. Haerdter, Jian-Chang Xie, Jiang-Min Zhou and Qin-Zhen Fan and held in 1999 in Haikou, Hainan, China.
This volume 1 discusses with three chapters the global and regional nutrient balances and the corresponding fertilizer requirement of China. An additional chapter deals with on-site studies and the final chapter with nutrient management in perennial crops, cash crops and in special applications. The workshop intended to create a better awareness of the situation of nutrient balances in China's intensive agriculture and the resulting need of balanced fertilization. The Proceedings target the advisors, the fertilizer sector and decision-makers in agricultural policies. A Chinese version of the Proceedings has been published earlier.
Copies of the Proceedings can be obtained from the IPI-Coordinator East/Southeast Asia: rolf.haerdter@kali-gmbh.com
16. National Soil Degradation Maps for Africa, based on GLASOD (UNEP/ISRIC)
http://www.fao.org/landandwater/agll/glasod/glasodmaps.jsp
This website gives access to soil degradation assessments by country based on
the GLASOD survey carried out during the 1980's by UNEP and ISRIC. For the moment
only maps and data for countries in the African continent are included, but
these can easily be expanded to cover all countries of the world. Data on soil
degradation have been linked with population numbers and densities in the mapping
units. For each country the extent of each severity class of soil degradation
and the associated population numbers (LandScan 2000) in the area mapped are
given.
17. Photolibrary on Soil Erosion Processes
http://www.fao.org/landandwater/agll/photolib/index_e.htm
The trilingual on-line photolibrary is meant as a complementary and technically
annotated photography annex to the "Guidelines for mapping and measurement of
rainfall-induced erosion processes in the Mediterranean coastal areas" (UNEP/Mediterranean
Action Plan and the Priority Action Programme).
The implementation of this new erosion mapping approach and methodology has been the result of the urgent need for standardized and consolidated surveying tools in the mediterranean region: so far, practices on mapping of erosion processes in the Mediterranean countries often involved a number of different and/or incompatible methodologies and procedures.
The mapping methodology is applicable not only for rainfall-induced erosion processes as initially stated, but considers also wind erosion and other degradation processes induced by incorrect land use practices and management; similarly, the flexibility, adaptability and versatility of the mapping criteria and methods might be likely to be applied in other regions of the world.
Therefore, it seemed convenient not to limit the illustrating samples contained in the photolibrary exclusively and strictly to Mediterranean coastal areas but to extend them to a broader variety of eco-geographical environments.
18. Water Quality and Environment Programme
http://www.fao.org/landandwater/aglw/waterquality/default.stm
The new website presents an overview of the activities included in the Water
Quality and Environment Programme dealing with agricultural drainage management
and water quality improvement in the sustainable use and conservation of water
in agriculture. Specific detailed sections on Water logging and salinity and
Treated wastewater Reuse. Available on-line Wastewater Database.
19. Outputs of 1st Southeast Asia Water Forum (17-21 November 2003 in Chiang Mai, Thailand)
http://www.gwpseatac.ait.ac.th/index.php
Participants in the The First Southeast Asia Water Forum (17-21 November 2003
in Chiang Mai, Thailand) have called for the modernization of irrigation systems
in the region. The objectives of the Forum were to build regional capacity among
Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) practitioners with emphasis on
putting policy into practice.
The outputs of the six sessions of the forum as well as the forum's Declaration can be downloaded from the GWP-SEATAC's website at http://www.gwpseatac.ait.ac.th/index.php
20. Regional Workshop on Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands (LADA) in the Caribbean (3-7 February2004 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad)
The workshop was organized in partnership by FAO, the Global Mechanism of the UNCCD, the German Technical Cooperation GTZ and UNEP-Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Office.
The workshop was attended by 63 participants comprising National Focal Points, NGO focal points, NGOs, land resources and land degradation specialists, resource persons, representatives of regional and international agencies and representatives of the private and public sector.
The meeting consisted of two segments:
1) a planning session for the elaboration of National Action Programmes (NAPs)
and Sub-Regional Action Programme coordination; and
2) a Workshop on Land Degradation Assessment(LADA).
As a result of the planning session, the problems encountered by countries in preparing their NAPs were identified, and proposals were made to assist the countries. The LADA segment of the workshop reviewed the status of land degradation assessment in Caribbean countries as well as Argentina, Mexico, including the use of GIS based AEZ/LRIS tools. It reviewed the LADA methodology, in particular the LADA seven-step approach on the basis of the China and Argentina LADA pilot studies. It revised the draft LADA project Framework and made proposals for its improvements. The meeting finalized a draft Caribbean regional LADA TCP project for submission to FAO via CARICOM. In the proposed Caribbean LADA activities, the emphasis is to be placed on capacity building in assessing and combating land degradation using local and regional expertise through Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries (TCDC).
21. International Seminar "Role and Importance of Integrated Soil and Water Management for Orchards Development (Vineyards and Olive Trees)" held from 9-10 May 2004 in Mosciano S. Angelo, Italy
This Seminar has been organized together with the Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Teramo. The Seminar was attended by more than 100 participants from about 8 countries. The programme featured a variety of presentations representing emergent issues on integrated soil and water management for orchards development (viticulture and olive tree crops) given by invited keynote speakers from Australia, Chile, Spain, the United States of America and selected Mediterranean countries.
Preliminary proceedings are available. For more information please contact Prof. Michele Pisante: pisante@unite.it copied to Jose.Benites@fao.org
22. Regional Writeshop to review lessons learnt and develop training materials for farmer field schools on soil and water management (FFS-SWM), Rome, 13-21 May 2004
A core group of experts/resource persons from FAO and partner organizations in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda reviewed their experiences and lessons learnt on promoting improved soil and water management through FFS approaches. Drawing on their experiences in the target farming systems in the selected countries, they confirmed the need to target the FFS-SWM training materials for facilitators and master trainers. The group also agreed to ensure a problem-oriented approach to the modules to address the real concerns and problems that farmers are facing, with a focus on smallholder farmers in resource poor areas.
The group reviewed the module outlines, one by one, covering various aspects such as the experimental learning process on soil and water management, soil properties and functions, farm water management (focusing on runoff farming), conservation agriculture (focusing on increased soil cover, reduced soil disturbance and crop rotations), crop nutrient management, soil health and organic resources management, monitoring and evaluation, and farmer innovation and experimentation.
Following small group discussions on specific modules, and using interconnected computers, authors began the writing and review process. The draft modules will be reviewed during a second writeshop in early October.
For further information see website:
http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/farmspi/
or contact Sally.Bunning@fao.org
or Ines.Beernaerts@fao.org
23. LADA Meeting Rome 24-26 May 2004
The PDF-B phase of the project "Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands" (LADA) as approved by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for implementation by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and execution by FAO, is coming to an end, after a fruitful two years of developing a methodology for land degradation assessment and testing it in a number of pilot countries and case studies. The LADA project has been a succesful programme that succeeded to bring together various departments within FAO and achieved a high output in the form of reports, CD ROM's and websites within a very short timespan. Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands requires a country-driven participatory approach necessary to implement the techniques and information gathered during this phase. The meeting focussed on the overall objectives, approaches, strategy and key technical elements of the full LADA project. The meeting also reviewed a number of country experiences of assessments and rehabilitation of land degradation. A technical part dealt with specific technical and policy aspects of the LADA findings, in particularly questions related to indicators, biodiversity and fast local assessments as an integral part of LADA and discussed in parallel with the the second formal meeting of the International Technical Steering Committee (ITSC).
More information on LADA at:
http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/lada/default.stm
and http://lada.virtualcentre.org/pagedisplay/display.asp
24. The Expert Consultation on Water Desalination for Agricultural Applications, 26-27 April, Roma
Five external experts participated in the 2-day Consultation, jointly with the Chief of AGLW, the Technical Officers of the AGLW Water Quality and Environment Group and the Senior Irrigation and Water Resources Officer of the Regional Office for the Near East.
The experts covered the areas in the world where water desalination technology has been implemented, namely USA, North Africa and the Middle East countries, especially the Gulf countries, and Spain, where desalted water is also applied in agriculture in addition to drinking supply.
The experts presented their contributions under the 5 main themes selected
for discussion:
o State-of-the-Art on Water Desalination Technology and Costs.
o Environmental Impacts & Externalities Associated with Water Desalination Technology.
o Economic and Environmental Feasibility of Water Desalination for Agricultural
Applications.
o Public/Private Partnerships.
o Comparison between Wastewater Treatment and Desalination in Agriculture.
The group of experts concluded that:
o Desalination might have a role in achieving food security although its emphasis
is still in drinking water.
o Applying water desalinisation technology to agriculture is rather cost ineffective
in general.
o To date, water desalination application in agriculture is limited to a reduced
number of areas, only for certain high-value crops and with government subsidies
in capital costs.
For further information, Technical details on the experts' conclusions and recommendations please contact: Sasha.Koo@fao.org or Julian.MartinezBeltran@fao.org
Technical details on the experts' conclusions and recommendations are now under preparation.
As parting editor I would like to thank everybody for their contributions to the Land and Water Newsletter over the last two years. I would also like to introduce the new editor Mr. Kohei Aoki, who will start his job with next issue. Please send your information from now onwards to Kohei.Aoki@fao.org.
With best wishes 1. Role and importance of integrated soil and water management
for orchards development (vineyards and olive tress), international seminar,
9-10 May 2004, Mosciano S. Angelo, Italy
2. Course: Development and implementation of bioindicators
in impact assessment and biodiversity monitoring schemes, Coimbra, 20-30 September
2004
3. ICID-FAO International Workshop on Water Harvesting and
Sustainable Agriculture, 7 September 2004, Moscow
4. ICID Special Session on Treated Wastewater re-use in
Irrigated Agriculture: the water chain approach, 9 September 2004, Moscow
5. Foro Electrónico sobre Sistemas de Pago por Servicios
Ambientales (PSA) en Cuencas Hidrográficas, 12 Abril - 21 Mayo 2004
6. Expert Consultation Meeting on "Assessing the Application
of Desalination Technology in Agriculture" in Rome from 26 to 27 April 2004.
7. A New One Year Master's Programme* at Stockholm University
Globalisation, Governance and Natural resource Management
8. International Technical Training Course on Rainwater
Harvesting and Utilization, July 19-August 31, 2004
9. A Review of Carbon Sequestration Projects
10. Tendencias Actuales y Perspectivas de los Fertilizantes
en el Mundo al 2007/2008
11. Tendences Actuelles du Marche Mondial des Engrais et
Perspectives jusqu'en 2007/2008
12. Fertilizer use by crop in Argentina
13. Legislation on water users' organizations: A comparative
analysis. FAO Legislative Studies Series number 79
14. Land and water - the rights interface, Legal Paper
Online #36
15. New publications on the AGL On-line Publications Database
16. Proceedings of the IPI-ISSCAS Workshop on the "Evaluation
of soil K fertility and rational K fertilization", September 3-5, 2002, Changsha,
China.
17. Potas - system nawozenia (Potassium in fertilizer systems)
18. Nawozenie rzepaku potasem (Importance of potash and
other nutrients for the success of oilseed rape cropping)
19. Fertigation and its Practice in China
20. ITC Water Newletter
21. Global Terrestrial Observing System: Global Land Cover 2000
Other News: 22. Phase III du projet Intrants GCP/NER/041/BEL "Promotion
de l'utilisation des intrants agricoles par les organisations de producteurs"
au Niger.
23. IWMI launches first region-wide research project to
combat drought and water scarcity in South West Asia
24. Associate Professional Officer FAO in KENYA, funded
by the Government of the Netherlands: APO Community-based education for IPM
and food security
25. Associate Professional Officer FAO in Dar-es-Salaam,
Tanzania, funded by the Government of the Netherlands: APO Agricultural Demand
Water Management Officer for Integrated Water Resources Management
1. Role and importance of integrated soil and water management for orchards development (vineyards and olive tress), international seminar, 9-10 May 2004, Mosciano S. Angelo, Italy
The Seminar will feature a variety of presentations representing emergent issues on integrated soil and water management for orchards development (viticulture and olive tree crops) given by invited keynote speakers from Australia, Chile, Spain, the United States of America and selected Mediterranean countries (Tunisia, Lebanon, Syria, Morocco, Egypt).
The current challenge is to make more efficient use of land, water and plant nutrient inputs, in order to meet present and future demands of these important tree crops. Best traditional practices and new developments of integrated land and water management could support efforts towards the sustainable intensification of the current vineyard and olive orchard production on a soil degradation-free basis.
The workshop includes one day (May 9) of field excursion in the vineyards and olive orchards around the Abruzzo Region and one day of paper and poster presentations, and roundtable discussion.
Deadlines: 250-word abstract by April 15, 2004, and full paper by April 30, 2004.
Contacts: Prof. Michele Pisante, Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Teramo, pisante@unite.it and José R. Benites, FAO, AGLL, Jose.Benites@fao.org
http://www.unite.it/Facolta/Agraria/Eventi/locandina.pdf
2. Course: Development and implementation of bioindicators in impact assessment and biodiversity monitoring schemes, Coimbra, 20-30 September 2004
The course is a two week post graduate course at the Department of Zoology University of Coimbra, Portugal. The lectures are in English.
This course includes various case studies on soil fauna. For more information, please consult the following web address http://www.uc.pt/ctce
3. ICID-FAO International Workshop on Water Harvesting and Sustainable Agriculture, 7 September 2004, Moscow
The main objective of the workshop are to exchange experiences gained in different countries and environments on planning, design, implementation and evaluation of water harvesting systems for sustainable crop production. The focus of the workshop is on runoff farming systems (including on-farm micro-catchment water harvesting systems, macro-catchment water harvesting systems and floodwater harvesting systems).
It is hoped that the outcome of the workshop will provide a suitable foundation to embark on the preparation of comprehensive policy and strategy guidelines on water harvesting.
Contact person on the workshop: s.nairizi@tooss-ab.com
First announcement is available at: http://www.icid.org/wsp_2004_wat_har.pdf
4. ICID Special Session on Treated Wastewater re-use in Irrigated Agriculture: the water chain approach, 9 September 2004, Moscow
This year's International Conference on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) will feature a Special Session on treated wastewater re-use in agriculture. The aim of this meeting will be to provide an array of issues related to wastewater applications in agriculture and its implications on livelihood, farm and watershed management, as well as pricing and cost recovery of wastewater. ICID would like to engage a wide cross section of practitioners involved in field work, management and research.
Information on the special session: frans.huibers@wur.nl
More info on ICID: http://www.icid.org
5. Foro Electrónico sobre Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales (PSA) en Cuencas Hidrográficas, 12 Abril - 21 Mayo 2004
Realizado por la Secretaria Técnica Internacional de la Red Latinoamericana de Cooperación Técnica en Manejo de Cuencas Hidrográficas (REDLACH). Auspiciado por la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Agricultura y la Alimentación (FAO) Oficina Regional para América Latina y el Caribe.
El Foro está abierto a todos los profesionales con experiencias en Sistemas de Pago por Servicios Ambientales en el ámbito de cuencas hidrográficas en la Región, tanto expertos de organizaciones gubernamentales, organizaciones no gubernamentales, del sector privado, y de organismos internacionales. En particular, se invita a participar activamente a los coordinadores de programas y proyectos que están implementando sistemas de PSA en cuencas hidrográficas.
La discusión en Foro Electrónico se divide en tres fases:
1. Diseño de sistemas de PSA en cuencas
2. Ejecución de sistemas de PSA en cuencas
3. Impactos de sistemas de PSA en cuencas
Cada fase tendrá una duración de dos semanas. Se discutirán las principales
conclusiones y recomendaciones del Foro de Arequipa sobre el tema, validándolas
a base de las experiencias de los participantes.
Como punto de partida, los moderadores pondrán a disposición el informe final del Foro Regional sobre Pagos por Servicios Ambientales (diponible en http://www.rlc.fao.org/foro/psa), realizado en Arequipa, Perú, del 9 al12 de junio 2003.
Contactos: Enrique Salazar: irh-intendente@inrena.gob.pe Benjamín Kiersch: Benjamin.Kiersch@fao.org
6. Expert Consultation Meeting on "Assessing the Application of Desalination Technology in Agriculture" in Rome from 26 to 27 April 2004.
The purpose of the meeting will be to bring together a small group of experts who have expertise in desalination (possibly the discussion will include broader issues of wastewater treatment) and to evaluate desalination's feasibility and potential in agricultural applications to irrigation and water management. The Water Resources, Development and Management Service will seek expert advice in the field of desalination, its costs and benefits for use in agriculture, and to analyze perspectives in its application on field projects. Worldwide knowledge and experience will be combined to provide strategic direction and advice to the Organization's Programme as to the issues and environmental impacts in the field of desalination.
Contact: Sascha.Koo@fao.org
7. A New One Year Master's Programme* at Stockholm University Globalisation, Governance and Natural resource Management
The course has a transdisciplinary and problem driven approach to the study of sustainability. Participants will perform in-depth case study analyses and discuss the complex relationships of social-ecological systems.
August 2004 - May 2005. Examination by Professor Carl Folke Please note: *This Master's programme is not equivalent to an International Master's Programme or Degree.
Website: http://www.ctm.su.se/globalisation Course assistant: Ms. Sara Borgstroem: sara@ctm.su.se
8. International Technical Training Course on Rainwater Harvesting and Utilization, July 19-August 31, 2004
As part of assisting program for the developing countries, the government of the People's Republic of China is going to fund an international training course on rainwater harvesting and utilization. Ministry of Commerce entrusts Gansu Research Institute for Water Conservancy to execute this course in Lanzhou city of Gansu province of China from 15 July to 31 August, 2004, with cooperation of International Rainwater Catchment Association, the course is oriented for candidates from the developing country in the World.
The participants of the course would be professionals and managers who deal with water resources management, rainfed agriculture, rural development and/or poverty alleviation in developing country.
The lecturing language of the course is English.
Contact: The Economic and Commercial Consul of the Chinese Embassy in your
country
Organizer: Course Director, Ma Cheng Xian: irrigs@public.lz.gs.cn
9. A review of Carbon Sequestration Projects
This document has been prepared within the framework of the FAO and Global Mechanism joint programme on Carbon Sequestration Incentive Mechanisms to Combat Land Degradation and Desertification. The main output of the programme is a knowledge base on carbon sequestration. The document reviews past and ongoing projects on carbon sequestration in different regions of the world as part of the knowledge base. It provides project factual information which could be useful to the Clean Development Mechanism and funding agencies, planners and administrators in the elaboration of future projects.
Projects The report can be viewed at: http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/agll/carbonsequestration/documents.stm
10. Tendencias Actuales y Perspectivas de los Fertilizantes en el Mundo al 2007/2008
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
11. Tendences Actuelles du Marche Mondial des Engrais et Perspectives jusqu'en 2007/2008
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
12. Fertilizer use by crop in Argentina
Argentina is an important world producer and exporter of soybeans, maize and wheat and certain other agricultural products. This study examines the cropping systems in the different regions of the country. The reasons for an extraordinary increase in fertilizer use in the fi rst half of the 1990s are analysed. The supply, distribution and economics as well as the research and advisory infrastructure for fertilizers are described. Constraints to increased fertilizer consumption and factors affecting the outlook for fertilizer demand are considered.
Contact : Tanja.VandenBergen@fao.org
It is also available for on-line reading and/or downloading at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertuseargent.pdf
13. Legislation on water users' organizations: A comparative analysis. FAO Legislative Studies Series number 79
A robust regulatory framework for the corporate governance of water users' organizations is a fundamental ingredient of irrigation management transfer policies. This publication offers a comparative analysis of the contemporary legislation of a wide variety of countries, providing the needed regulatory framework for water users' organizations to function and grow. This publication was prepared by Stephen Hodgson for the Development Law Service and the Water Resources Management and Development Service.
It has been published in the FAO Legislative Studies Series as number 79.
ISBN 9251050279. Pp. 116. Price US$18. For acquisition, please contact FAO
Publications at:
Sales and Marketing Group
Publishing Management Service
FAO Information Division
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00100 Rome, Italy
Publications-Sales@fao.org
Fax: + 39 06 5705 3360
14. Land and water - the rights interface, Legal Paper Online #36
By Stephen Hodgson (March 2004). Available on-line at:
http://www.fao.org/legal/prs-ol/paper-e.htm
15. New publications on the AGL On-line Publications Database
The below mentioned publications have been added to the AGL On-line Publications Database http://www.fao.org/landandwater/oldocs.jsp
15a. A review of carbon sequestration projects
It is available for on-line reading and/or downloading at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/misc37e.pdf
Abstract: see 9.
15.b A perspective on water control in Southern Africa
This document is available for on-line reading and/or downloading at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/aglw/docs/lwdp1_e.pdf
Abstract: This discussion paper is a joint production of the FAO Subregional Office for Southern and East Africa and FAO Land and Water Development Division as a response to the regional drought of 2001 and 2002 in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The paper attempts to diagnose the root causes of the failure of food production systems that depend upon the control of water in the all-important root zone. The continuing vulnerability of staple food production systems to periodic drought and the volatility of incomes that are derived from agriculture continue to confound the subregion. Food import bills use up hard-won foreign exchange and distribution logistics to food short areas are stretched to the limit. Turning this chronic vulnerability around, it is argued, will require an advance on two fronts. Firstly, by enhancing profitable farm operations through improved farm management and water control; secondly, by expanding the economic opportunities for farmers through progressive regulation of the agriculture sector and the associated business frameworks. In this respect, water control is only one (but nevertheless critical) element of the food security equation in the region and it is important to position good water control practice within the broader production environment.
15.c On-farm composting methods
This document is available for on-line reading and/or downloading at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/lwdp2_e.pdf
Abstract: Soil productivity and environmental concerns have revived global interest in organic recycling practices such as composting. Composting is an attractive proposition for turning on-farm organic waste material into a valuable farm resource. A range of approaches to composting for different situations have been used. However, the information on recently evolved quick composting methodologies, especially those suited to small farmers, remains scattered and needs consolidation. The publication presents an overview of on-farm composting methodologies with special emphasis on rapid composting processes, and is intended to promote their wide-scale adoption with the ultimate objectives of improving soil productivity in developing countries and protecting the environment from degradation.
15.d Fertilizer use by crop in Argentina
It is available for on-line reading and/or downloading at ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fertuseargent.pdf
Abstract: see 12.
15.e Use of phosphate rocks for sustainable agriculture
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fpnb13.pdf
Abstract: Extensive research on the agronomic potential and actual effectiveness of phosphate rocks (PRs) as sources of phosphorus has been carried out in Africa, Asia, Latin America and elsewhere. A wealth of information is available, but it is scattered among meeting proceedings, technical reports and scientific and other publications. This bulletin gives comprehensive coverage of the key topics regarding the utilization of PRs in agriculture, including the latest information on PR research, and provides guidelines for the direct application of PR (DAPR) to the acid soils of the tropics and subtropics. The selected topics include: world PR deposits; characterization of PR sources; evaluation methodologies of PR sources for direct application; analysis of the biophysical and farming factors that affect the agronomic effectiveness of PR sources, together with an analysis of the socio-economic factors that influence the use and adoption of PR technologies as a capital investment to trigger agricultural intensification; development and use of decision-support systems for DAPR; soil P testing for PR application; available technologies for enhancing the agronomic effectiveness of indigenous PR sources; environmental issues; legislation guidelines; and future research areas and priorities.
15.f Assessment of soil nutrient balance
ftp://ftp.fao.org/agl/agll/docs/fpnb14.pdf
Abstract: Nutrient-balance assessments are valuable tools for delineating the consequences of farming on soil fertility. Various approaches and methods for different situations have been used. This bulletin presents a state-of-the-art overview of nutrient-balance studies. It brings out the evolution of the approaches and methods, provides for comparisons among them, features the improvements made and highlights remaining issues. This analysis will be useful in further development of the assessment methodologies as reliable tools for devising time-scale soil fertility management interventions.
16. Proceedings of the IPI-ISSCAS Workshop on the "Evaluation of soil K fertility and rational K fertilization", September 3-5, 2002, Changsha, China.
The proceedings - in Chinese language - compiled on 317 pages the contributions to the workshop and gives recommendations how to improve K management in different cropping systems and various agri-ecological regions in China.
Copies can be obtained through the IPI-Coordinator China 1: rolf.haerdter@kali-gmbh.com
17. Potas - system nawozenia (Potassium in fertilizer systems) by W. Grzebisz
The booklet explains, in Polish language on 29 pages with coloured graphs and 13 slides, the function of K in soil and plants, and is focused towards farmers and advisors. Requests for copies should be addressed to the International Potash Institute (IPI) Coordinator for Central/Eastern Europe, Dr. T. Popp: thomas.popp@kali-gmbh.com
18. Nawozenie rzepaku potasem (Importance of potash and other nutrients for the success of oilseed rape cropping) by W. Grzebisz:
The booklet describes, in Polish language on 48 pages with coloured graphs and 18 slides, the nutrient management for oilseed rape in Poland. Requests for copies should be addressed to the International Potash Institute (IPI) Coordinator for Central/Eastern Europe, Dr. T. Popp: thomas.popp@kali-gmbh.com
19. Fertigation and its Practice in China
The book is one of the first of its kind to be published in China on the topic of fertigation. It is intended to serve students, scholars, researchers, advanced farmers and government entities.
Written by scientists and experts, 'Fertigation and its Practice in China' is intended to supply basic and advanced information on the fast-growing field of fertigation.
China Agriculture Press (CAP, ISBN 7-109-08520-1). Eds. T. Youguo (NATESC) and H. Magen (IPI), Beijing, P.R. China, 2003. 115 text pages (in Chinese) and 8 color pages with pictures.
Contact:
Dr. T. Youguo, National Agro-Tech Extension Service Centre (NATESC), Ministry
of Agriculture, No. 20 Maizidian Street, Beijing 100026, China; email: youguo.t@agri.gov.cn
The Newsletter contains information about water-related education, training and projects at the International Institute for Geo-information Science and Earth Observation (ITC).
http://www.itc.nl/news_events/archive/education/wrem_news2003_2.asp
21. Global Terrestrial Observing System: Global Land Cover 2000
The Global land Cover 2000 Project (GLC 2000) is a collaboration of partners around the world with the general objective to provide for the year 2000 a harmonized land cover database over the whole globe.
To achieve this objective GLC 2000 makes use of the VEGA 2000 dataset: a dataset of 14 months of pre-processed daily global data acquired by the VEGETATION instrument on board the SPOT 4 satellite.
The Global dataset of the Global Land Cover 2000 map (version 1) has been completed and can be downloaded with the accompanying poster from http://www.gvm.jrc.it/glc2000.
You will also find a report on the products download page (under the column 'Further Information') detailing the methodology involved in creating this product, as well as an update document relating to the most recent changes.
Registration to obtain free access to the data is at: www.gvm.jrc.it/glc2000/ProductGLC2000.htm For further details of GTOS projects and activities please to contact the GTOS Secretariat gtos@fao.org or visit http://www.fao.org/gtos.
22. Phase III du projet Intrants au Niger GCP/NER/041/BEL "Promotion de l'utilisation des intrants agricoles par les organisations de producteurs".
Le Gouvernement de la Belgique vient d'approuver la phase III du projet Intrants au Niger GCP/NER/041/BEL "Promotion de l'utilisation des intrants agricoles par les organisations de producteurs".
Ce projet a contribué à la préparation du PANFS/CER (Plan d'action national sur la fertilité des sols et la collecte des eaux de ruissellement).
La Banque Mondiale a pris ce projet comme exemple en ce qui concerne l'approvisionnement en intrants des petits agriculteurs.
Une étude est actuellement en cours pour évaluer la rentabilité des "Boutiques d'Intrants" développées par le projet.
Ce projet est suivi par les services techniques AGLL, AGSF et SDAR de la FAO.
Le site internet du projet: http://www.fao.org/ag/agl/fldproj.stm
23. IWMI launches first region-wide research project to combat drought and water scarcity in South West Asia
The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has launched a research project that aims to unite the scientific community and civil society organizations across India, Pakistan and Afghanistan in a common effort to find ways of mitigating the effects of the recurrent droughts that devastate the region.
A new web site launched today by IWMI is intended to be a portal for drought-related studies, news and information on the South West Asia region and a meeting place for scientists, managers and policy makers dealing with different aspects of droughts. It is focusing on Afghanistan, Pakistan and Western India.
IWMI is actively encouraging individuals and organizations to share drought related information that could be relevant to the research project. Organizations that wish to be registered in the regional resources directory, are requested to supply us with contact details and a brief (3-5 lines) description of your activities/expertise. This information may also be used to develop a regional community of practice, discussion groups and an e-mail list, to which regular updates of drought related initiatives may be sent.
For further information on the Drought Assessment and mitigation project in South West Asia contact: v.smakhtin@cgiar.org
The project's web site: http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/droughtassessment/index.asp
24. Associate Professional Officer FAO in KENYA, funded by the Government of the Netherlands: APO Community-based education for IPM and food security
Reference number: FAOR/KEN/AGPP/001
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is seeking qualified candidates for the following Associate Professional Officers (APO) positions funded by the Government of the Netherlands. The selection process is open for Dutch nationals and for candidates from eligible developing countries.
Minimum requirements:
under 32 of age on the date of application; and university education at M.Sc./MA
level, (working experience considered beneficial); or university education at
B.Sc./BA level with three years of working experience.
Applications:,br> Application forms can be requested via the following e-mail address: TC-APO-Programme@fao.org quoting the reference number. The deadline for application is 20 April 2004. If you have any questions regarding the selection procedure, use the same e-mail address or contact: APO Programme Unit Ms Tineke J. Volker Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 00100 Rome, Italy Tel. 00 39 06 57054269 / Fax 00 39 06 57055627
For more information: http://www.fao.org/tc/Apo/section_information_for_potential_applicants/index6_en.html
25. Associate Professional Officer FAO in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, funded by the Government of the Netherlands: APO Agricultural Water Demand Management Officer for Integrated Water Resources Management
Reference number: FAOR/URT/AGLW/004
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is seeking qualified candidates for the following Associate Professional Officers (APO) positions funded by the Government of the Netherlands. The selection process is open for Dutch nationals and for candidates from eligible developing countries.
Minimum requirements:
under 32 of age on the date of application; and university education at M.Sc./MA
level, (working experience considered beneficial); or university education at
B.Sc./BA level with three years of working experience.
Applications:
Application forms can be requested via the following e-mail address: TC-APO-Programme@fao.org
quoting the reference number. The deadline for application is 20 April 2004.
If you have any questions regarding the selection procedure, use the same e-mail
address or contact: APO Programme Unit Ms Tineke J. Volker Viale delle Terme
di Caracalla, 00100 Rome, Italy Tel. 00 39 06 57054269 / Fax 00 39 06 57055627
For more information: http://www.fao.org/tc/Apo/section_information_for_potential_applicants/index6_en.html
Activities:
1a. XIV International Congress on Nitrogen Fixation.
27 October - 1 November 2004, Beijing, China
1b. XIV Congreso Internacional de Fijación de Nitrógeno,
27 de octubre - 1 de noviembre de 2004, Beijing, China
2. XXII Reunión Latinoamericana de Rhizobiología y la primera
Reunión Nacional de Fijación Biológica del Nitrógeno. 13 al 15 de septiembre
de 2004, Miguel Pereira, Brasil
3. 5th Fertigation Course,Hebei Agricultural University,
Boading City, China, 16-19 June 2004
4. Regional Workshop on Potassium and Fertigation Development
in West Asia and North Africa, Rabat, Morocco, 24-28 November 2004
5. FAO-UNEP Project Design Meeting: "Addressing water-related
environmental footprints in agriculture for the next 30 years." held 15-17 December
2003, FAO Rome.
6. The WIN international workshop, held december 2003
7. Glossary on Integrated Nutrient Management (Jointly
published by the FAO and the Fertiliser Development and Consultation Organisation,
India)
8. Assessment of Soil Nutrient Balance - Approaches and
Methodologies
9. Use of phosphate rocks for sustainable agriculture
10. On-Farm Composting Methods
11. Conservation Agriculture (CA) leaflets: Soil Moisture,
organic matter, soil compaction and implementing CA
12. New publications on the AGL On-line Publications Database
13. World Water Actions: Making Water Flow for All
14. Rethinking Water Management: Innovative Approaches
to Contemporary Issues
15. Web-report on irrigation reform processes
16. New IRRIGATION-L.org website
17. New Sakia.org website and services
1a. XIV International Congress on Nitrogen Fixation. 27 October - 1 November 2004, Beijing, China
More information: www,n2fix.com
1b. XIV Congreso Internacional de Fijación de Nitrógeno, 27 de octubre - 1 de noviembre de 2004, Beijing, China
Más información en www.n2fix.com
2. XXII Reunión Latinoamericana de Rhizobiología y la primera Reunión Nacional de Fijación Biológica del Nitrógeno
13-15 de septiembre 2004, Miguel Pereira, Brasil.
Presidenta Comité Organizador: Verónica Massena Reis:
veronica@cnpab.embrapa.br
Más información en www.cnpab.embrapa.br/novidades/eventos.html
3. 5th Fertigation Course, Hebei Agricultural University, Boading City, China, 16-19 June 2004
This course will be jointly organised by the Soils Science Division of the Agro-Tech Extension and Service Centre (NASTEC), Ministry of Agriculture of the P.R.China and the International Potash Institute (IPI). The course will include lectures, demonstrations and a field trip. Faculty will consist of foreign speakers and reputed Chinese experts in the field of fertigation.
Registration until 30 April. Open to all. A fee will be charged. More information: www.ipichina.org
Contacts: hillel.magen@iclfertilizers.com (IPI) and yougou@yahoo.com (NASTEC)
4. Regional Workshop on Potassium and Fertigation Development in West Asia and North Africa, Rabat, Morocco, 24-28 November 2004
This workshop is organised by the International Potash Institute (IPI) and The Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire H