Research is being conducted to assess the current eco-meliorative condition of soils in Azerbaijan’s Kura-Araz Lowland, identify salinization risks, and ensure the efficient use of irrigation water. Failure to follow proper irrigation regimes in the Kura-Araz Lowland increases the risk of secondary soil salinization.

This was stated in an interview with AZERTAC by Azad Karimov, Chief Specialist of the Projects and Grants Sector at the Institute of Geography, PhD in Agricultural Sciences and Associate Professor.

The expert noted that the proper application of irrigation regimes is of great importance for the efficient use of the country’s soil resources. In particular, the low level of precipitation and the arid climate of the Kura-Araz Lowland make it necessary to cultivate agricultural land mainly through irrigation. Failure to comply with irrigation standards and excessive irrigation of soils can cause groundwater levels to rise and, consequently, lead to secondary salinization.

Initial monitoring has covered an assessment of the eco-meliorative condition of soils in the Shirvan-Salyan economic region. During the studies, it was determined that groundwater levels had risen to within 1.6–2 meters of the surface in some areas. This situation increases the risk of secondary salinization, particularly under high-temperature conditions, because intensified evaporation causes salts to accumulate in the upper layers of the soil.

According to the preliminary monitoring results, farmers in certain areas were observed not to be fully complying with irrigation rates. Analysis of diagnostic indicators of the soils also showed that processes of transformation and waterlogging are occurring in some areas.

The risk of salinization is particularly high in the Shirvan and Mugan-Salyan areas of the Kura-Araz Lowland. In these areas, the low permeability of soils with a heavy mechanical composition can cause water to accumulate in the soil, raise groundwater levels, and accelerate salinization processes.

Two projects are being developed to prevent the problem and promote more efficient use of water resources. One of the projects aims to investigate the possibility of using water from the Main Mil-Mugan and Main Shirvan collector systems as alternative water sources. Within the framework of the study, the mineralization and salinity levels of collector water in different areas will be determined, its suitability for irrigation will be assessed, and the geographical coordinates of suitable areas will be identified.

The second project focuses on determining irrigation regimes for agricultural crops in the Mil-Mugan, Shirvan-Salyan, and other suitable areas of the Kura-Araz Lowland. The project will determine the water requirements and optimal irrigation rates for individual crops and develop irrigation methods appropriate to the characteristics of specific areas. The scientific and practical recommendations to be developed are expected to be submitted to relevant district and local executive authorities.

The expert believes that applying scientifically based irrigation rates will enable both more efficient use of water resources and a reduction in the risks of salinization and degradation of agricultural soils.

“By applying a proper irrigation regime, it is possible not only to conserve water but also to preserve soil productivity and ensure the long-term agricultural use of these lands,” Azad Karimov said.