Irrigation Infrastructure in Fergana Today: Ecological Implications – Economic Necessities

Abstract

Managing water sustainably and efficiently is important for the Fergana Valley’s (FV) irrigation-dominated agricultural system and, subsequently, for its rural population and environment. During the past decade, national water legislation and the organisation of integrated water resources management have been reformed in FV and this development continues. Nevertheless, their implementation has been limited by the lack of resources and the weakness of the institutions. Moreover, the future challenges water management faces in the region’s agriculture are increasing all the time. These challenges include low water-use efficiency, fewer incentives for water users to increase land and water productivity, water shortages within the system, salinity and declines in key crop yields. Current irrigation strategies in the region are not adaptable enough to cope with variations in water supply and crop water requirements caused by land use and climate change. The objective of this chapter is to provide an overview of the irrigation water management in the region and to lay down some of the concepts and complexities in maintaining the existing irrigation infrastructure with the aim of increasing water productivity and environmental sustainability. We hope that this will help set the stage for productive discussions and to identify research needs.