Improved Policy Making for Sustainable Farming: A Case Study on Irrigated Dryland Agriculture in Western Uzbekistan

Abstract

A stochastic model was developed to explore policy scenarios designed to address the long-term sustainability of the farming sector in Western Uzbekistan. The model results evidence the need to move away from high input cropping systems, towards alternative crops. Reduced water use was obtained with the introduction of water-wise technologies, such as laser leveling and drip irrigation. In light of natural and man made water shortages in the region, a more sustainable farming system requires greater collective investment among Water User Associations (WUAs) as well as the redirection of government subsidies toward more environmentally friendly farming methods.