New guide highlights Najd as model for sustainable farming
Published: 05:04 PM,Apr 18,2025 | EDITED : 09:04 PM,Apr 18,2025
The Najd Agricultural Guide represents a forward-thinking blueprint for arid-zone agriculture.
MUSCAT: In a strategic move to promote sustainable agriculture in arid environments, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) has released the Najd Agricultural Guide, showcasing the Najd as a pioneering model in managing limited natural resources while ensuring food and water security.
The guide highlights the Najd’s efforts to strike a balance between expanding agricultural productivity and preserving non-renewable resources, particularly groundwater. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also contributes to national goals outlined under Oman Vision 2040.
According to the guide, Najd relies on multiple water sources to meet its agricultural needs.
While deep groundwater wells serve as the primary supply, additional sources include rainwater, condensation from greenhouses, greywater reuse and water harvesting techniques. These diverse water inputs are managed through advanced irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler technologies that significantly reduce waste and improve efficiency.
The water quality in Najd is reported to be high, with hydrogeological assessments routinely conducted to ensure compliance with sustainable standards. These practices contribute to long-term resource security and optimise the use of available water for agricultural purposes.
Equally important is Najd’s soil quality, which supports a wide range of crops due to its sandy to loamy-sandy composition. The soil is known for both its permeability and water retention, making it suitable for both open-field farming and protected agriculture. The guide notes that soil pH levels range from 6.5 to 8.5, an ideal spectrum for most crop varieties.
To maintain and enhance soil fertility, the region has adopted a range of sustainable farming practices. These include crop rotation, organic fertilisation, the use of natural soil conditioners and balanced nutrient management, especially with key elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The Najd Agricultural Guide represents a forward-thinking blueprint for arid-zone agriculture and offers a model that could be replicated in other regions facing similar environmental constraints. By combining science-based resource management with agricultural innovation, Najd is setting a benchmark in Oman’s journey towards food security and sustainable development.
HIGHLIGHTS
The guide highlights the Najd’s efforts to strike a balance between expanding agricultural productivity and preserving non-renewable resources, particularly groundwater
The guide highlights the Najd’s efforts to strike a balance between expanding agricultural productivity and preserving non-renewable resources, particularly groundwater. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also contributes to national goals outlined under Oman Vision 2040.
According to the guide, Najd relies on multiple water sources to meet its agricultural needs.
While deep groundwater wells serve as the primary supply, additional sources include rainwater, condensation from greenhouses, greywater reuse and water harvesting techniques. These diverse water inputs are managed through advanced irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler technologies that significantly reduce waste and improve efficiency.
The water quality in Najd is reported to be high, with hydrogeological assessments routinely conducted to ensure compliance with sustainable standards. These practices contribute to long-term resource security and optimise the use of available water for agricultural purposes.
Equally important is Najd’s soil quality, which supports a wide range of crops due to its sandy to loamy-sandy composition. The soil is known for both its permeability and water retention, making it suitable for both open-field farming and protected agriculture. The guide notes that soil pH levels range from 6.5 to 8.5, an ideal spectrum for most crop varieties.
To maintain and enhance soil fertility, the region has adopted a range of sustainable farming practices. These include crop rotation, organic fertilisation, the use of natural soil conditioners and balanced nutrient management, especially with key elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The Najd Agricultural Guide represents a forward-thinking blueprint for arid-zone agriculture and offers a model that could be replicated in other regions facing similar environmental constraints. By combining science-based resource management with agricultural innovation, Najd is setting a benchmark in Oman’s journey towards food security and sustainable development.
HIGHLIGHTS
The guide highlights the Najd’s efforts to strike a balance between expanding agricultural productivity and preserving non-renewable resources, particularly groundwater