Water

SOILS THAT RETAIN higher amounts of water generate higher orop yields. "IN AFRICA, ONLY ABOUT 6% 50% OF THE TOTAL CULTIVATED LAND IS IRRIGATED. IT IS ESTIMATED THAT IRRIGATION ALONE COULD INCREASE OUTPUT BY UP TO IN AFRICA." - Kanayo Nwanze, IFAD President Statoment for Africa Agriculture Science Week, July 2013 IFDC PROMOTES WATER RETENTION TECHNIQUES THAT INCLUDE: ALTERNATE WETTING AND DRYING CAWD) DRIP IRRIGATION ensures adequate water moisture for crops while using less water. conserves water and reduces groundwater pollution. MINIMUM TILLAGE techniques reduce soil erosion. TERRACING intercepts water runoff and reduces erosion. "Training farmers on sustainable farming methods, including proper use of fertilizer with drip irrigation systems, is imperative to ensure water security for the global population. By using water and fertilizer more efficiently, farmers can both reduce groundwater pollution and increase their production." - Dr. Amit Roy, President and CEO of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) IFDC © IFDC 03/14