Water Reuse for Irrigated Agriculture in Jordan: What's Waste about Wastewater?

Abstract

Jordan has very limited water resources and treated domestic wastewater offers a valuable contribution to the country‛s agricultural water supply. The high salt content of the water means that suitable soil management strategies, such as periodic leaching, are required to maintain soil productivity. In research conducted by the authors, soil sampling in Jordan has led to the compilation of data on the effects of irrigation with treated wastewater on soil salinity and boron content. Interviews with farmers and organizations involved with water reuse have gained information on the management of the water. Results reveal that the implementation of effective strategies is infl uenced by the perception and knowledge of the water. The maintenance of soil sustainability is imperative and achievable through water management both on and off the farm