Khaberni - The excavations and earthen dams implemented by the Agriculture Directorate of Tafilah, as part of the water harvesting projects in the eastern and southern regions of Tafilah Governorate, absorbed about one and a half million cubic meters of rainwater experienced by the governorate during the current rainy season.
Bilal Helal, the director of agriculture in Tafilah, explained that the Ministry of Agriculture implemented about 34 dams and earthen excavations in the Tafilah Quasbat and the districts of Hasa and Buseira, which contributed during the current rainy season to collect sufficient amounts of rainwater. He pointed out that it is expected to exceed two million cubic meters of water, in line with the Ministry of Agriculture’s direction to expand water harvesting projects, according to the Kingdom.
Helal indicated that the water harvesting projects implemented in the areas of Jurf Al-Darawish, Sihaan, Aali, Tawana, and the Qarqur area in Buseira District, as well as Briyush, Quwa'et, Tawana reserve dam, Abu Khasheeba, and other areas in Zahira, Ahmar, and Namila, contributed to the harvesting of rainwater for use in the upcoming months for livestock watering, the growth of natural pastures, and enhancing groundwater reserves.
He clarified that these projects contributed to reducing floods and soil erosion, protecting it from salt accumulation and enriching the water springs, especially in the areas of Buseira District and the eastern regions, pointing out that the capacity of these excavations exceeds three million cubic meters of water.
Helal confirmed that the expansion of water harvesting projects aims to develop grazing areas in the eastern regions, provide water sources throughout the year, and increase the pastoral areas by utilizing the collected water.
He expressed optimism about the improvement of the agricultural season in the coming months, noting that the cumulative total of rainfall that fell on Tafilah Governorate has reached about 185 mm so far compared to only 20 mm during the same period last year. He urged farmers to plow their lands and prepare them for sowing field crops at the appropriate time, due to the soil currently being saturated with moisture.
He noted that the amount of rainfall in Al-Eis region reached 220 mm, which is about 90% of the annual average.
