Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project Final

Bureau of Irrigation and Low Land Areas Development Qeha Diversion small scale Project
Amhara National Regional State

Irrigation & Low Land Area Development Bureau
(BOILLAD)
Feasibility Study and Detail Design

Of
Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project
Volume III: Irrigation Agronomy Final Report
June, 2023
Bahir Dar
Client: Irrigation & Low Land Area Development Bureau
(BoILLAD)
Address:
P.O.Box:88
Telephone: 052-820-08-53
Fax: 251-08-20-65-68/204676/202040
Bahirdar, Ethiopia
Consultant: Lalibela Design & Supervision Works plc.
Address:
P.O.Box:1628
Telephone:+251-58320-1366/4892/1786
Fax:(058)3204339
E-mail:Lalibelasdsw@gmail.comBahirDar,Ethiopia
Feasibility Study and Detail Design of Final Report, Qeha Diversion Irrigation Agronomy
FEASIBILITY STUDY & DETAIL DESIGN REPORT STRUCTURE
 Volume I Watershed Management
 Volume II Engineering Geology
 Volume III Agronomy study Report
 Volume IV Engineering Design
 Volume V Socio Economy Study Report
 Volume VI Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
 Volume VII Financial and Economic Analysis

 Volume VIII Agricultural Marketing and Agribusiness Study
 Volum IX Micro Watershed Management Study
 Volume X Soil Survey Study
i
EXECUTIVE SUMMERY
This report presents the agronomy feasibility level study of Qeha Diverston Irrigation Project which
comprises mainly two parts. The frontline part comprises the existing physical features and
agricultural situations as well as the constraints and opportunities of the agricultural developments
of the project area. The second part holds the with-project that comprises the selection of crops,
cropping pattern, agricultural inputs requirements, cropwater and irrigation water requirements,
estimates of crops yields and projections, crop budgets of the with-project as well as the conclusion
and recommendations.
The main objective of the present project study is to introduce modern irrigation scheme to the
project beneficiary people and create work opportunities for the landless youths from the modern
irrigation system of this project.
The project area is located in Amhara National Regional State (ANRS), South Gonder
Administrative Zone of LiboKemkem woreda, specifically in Birkuta kebele. It has found in Erteb
Woina Dega Climatic Zone with an altitude range of 1955.031-1930.121 meters above sea level.
The rainfall pattern of the project area is unimodal type which commence in the month of May and
withdraw in the end of September having the mean total annual rain fall of about 1308.2 mm as the
rainfall pattern is represented by Addis Zemen metrological station.
The existing land use pattern of the command area is dominantly cultivated land. The irrigated crop
production is the main agricultural farming system carried out in the project area; while the rain-fed
agriculture is secondary to this area. The major crops grown in the project area during dry seasons
are: potato, garlic, onion,tomato,cabbage; while in the wet seasons are maize, teff, millet,
wheat,barely and fababean. The soil texture of the command area is predominantly clay soil.
The size of the net command area is 180 ha with 200% cropping intensity (180 ha in wet and 180 ha
in dry seasons) and has proposed to be implement primarily to fulfill the food demand of the people
of the project area; and secondly to produce surplus crop productions for market purposes, domestic
and export, mainly vegetable crops in dry seasons for local market.
CropWat 8.0 software has used to compute the water requirements of the with-project proposed
crops. Accordingly, the maximum duty for the design requirement of this project is 1.6 l/sec/ha in
the month of February by adopting 51% overall project efficiency with 18 irrigation hours.
ii
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMERY ........................................................................................................... ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................... vi
LIST OF FIGURES .................................................................................................................... vii
LIST OF ANNEXES .................................................................................................................. viii
ACRONYMS ................................................................................................................................ ix
SALIENT FEATURES OF THE IRRIGATION PROJECT ..................................................... xi
1.INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 1
1.2. OBJECTIVES........................................................................................................................... 3
1.2.1. General Objective .............................................................................................................. 3
1.2.2. Specific Objective .............................................................................................................. 3
1.3. METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY .............................................................................................. 4
1.4. SCOPE OF THE STUDY ............................................................................................................ 5
2. PROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................... 6
2.1. PHYSICAL FEATURES ............................................................................................................. 6
2.1.2. Location and Accessibility ................................................................................................. 6
2.2. AGRO-ECOLOGY AND CLIMATE CONDITION ........................................................................... 6
2.2.1. Rainfall .............................................................................................................................. 6
2.2.2. Temperature....................................................................................................................... 8
2.2.3. Sunshine hours duration ..................................................................................................... 9
2.2.4. Relative humidity ............................................................................................................... 9
2.2.5. Wind speed ........................................................................................................................ 9
2.3. COMMAND AREA CHARACTERISTICS ...................................................................................... 9
2.3.1. Topography........................................................................................................................ 9
2.4. LAND USE SYSTEM AND SOIL CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................. 11
2.4.1. Land Use System ............................................................................................................. 12
2.4.2. Soil Characteristics .......................................................................................................... 13
2.5. NATURAL VEGETATION COVER............................................................................................ 14
2.6.WATER RESOURCES ............................................................................................................. 14
3. PRESENT AGRICULTURAL SITUATION ......................................................................... 15
3.1. FARMING SYSTEM ............................................................................................................... 15
3.2. CROPPING SYSTEM .............................................................................................................. 15
3.2.1. Shifting Cultivation .......................................................................................................... 16
3.2.2. Mono-Cropping ............................................................................................................... 16
iii
3.2.3. Intercropping ................................................................................................................... 16

3.2.4. Crop Rotation .................................................................................................................. 16
3.3. CROPS PRODUCTION AND YIELDS......................................................................................... 17
3.3.1. Rain-fed Crops, Cropping Patterns and Crop Calendar ..................................................... 17
3.3.2. Existing Irrigated Agriculture and Practices ..................................................................... 20
3.3.3. Experience of Private and State Agricultural Enterprises .................................................. 23
3.4. CROPPING PRACTICES AND USE OF TECHNOLOGIES .............................................................. 23
3.4.1. Pre-Harvest Practices ....................................................................................................... 23
3.4.2.Post-Harvest Practices....................................................................................................... 27
3.5. FARM INPUTS SUPPLY AND UTILIZATION EXPERIENCES ........................................................ 28
3.5.1. Organic Input Use ............................................................................................................ 29
3.5.2. Commercial input ............................................................................................................ 29
3.6. LABOUR AND DRAUGHT POWER CONDITIONS ...................................................................... 30
3.6.1. Labour Power .................................................................................................................. 31
3.6.2. Draught Power ................................................................................................................. 31
3.7. AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT SERVICES..................................................................................... 33
3.7.1. Agricultural Extension and Training ................................................................................ 33
3.7.2. Agricultural Research ...................................................................................................... 34
3.7.3. Credit Facility .................................................................................................................. 34
3.8. CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES OF AGRICULTURE AND IRRIGATION DEVELOPMENT ........ 34
3.8.1. Agricultural Development Constraints ............................................................................. 34
3.8.2. Development Opportunities for Irrigated Agriculture ....................................................... 36
3.8.3. Development Strategy for Irrigated Agriculture ............................................................... 36
4.THE IRRIGATION PROJECT .............................................................................................. 37
4.1. PROJECT RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES ................................................................................ 37
4.2. SELECTION OF CROPS .......................................................................................................... 38
4.2.1. Crop basket determination................................................................................................ 38
4.2.2. Crops Selection Criteria ................................................................................................... 38
4.3. CROP PRODUCTION DEVELOPMENT PLAN ............................................................................. 39
4.3.1. Crop Choices/Selection .................................................................................................... 39
4.3.2. Cropping Pattern and Crop Calendar ................................................................................ 40
4.4. CROP WATER REQUIREMENT (CWR) ................................................................................... 41
4.4.1. Calculation of Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) ......................................................... 41
4.4.2. Selection of Values for Crop Coefficient (Kc) .................................................................. 42
4.4.3. Effect of Agricultural Practice and Local Conditions ........................................................ 42
4.4.4. Crop Water Requirements Calculated for the Project ........................................................ 43
4.5. IRRIGATION WATER MANAGEMENT ..................................................................................... 45
4.5.1. Irrigation Methods and Systems ....................................................................................... 45
4.5.2. Irrigation Schedule (IS) .................................................................................................... 45
4.5.3. Irrigation application depth and crop critical stages .......................................................... 46
4.6 Organizational Aspects of Irrigation Schemes ...................................................................... 48
4.7. CROP YIELD ESTIMATE AND PROJECTION ............................................................................. 49
4.7.1. Crop Yield Estimation ..................................................................................................... 49
4.7.2. Production Projection ....................................................................................................... 51
4.8. SUPPORTING INTERVENTIONS ............................................................................................... 52
iv
4.8.1. Extension ......................................................................................................................... 52

4.9. AGRICULTURAL INPUT REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................ 55
4.9.1. Seed Requirements........................................................................................................... 55
4.9.2. Fertilizer Requirements .................................................................................................... 56
4.9.3. Agro-Chemicals Requirements......................................................................................... 57
4.9.4. Labor and Draft Power ..................................................................................................... 58
4.10. AGRONOMIC PRACTICES AND CROP REQUIREMENTS FOR SELECTED CROPS GROWN UNDER
IRRIGATION................................................................................................................................ 59
4.11.CROP BUDGET AND EXPECTED GROSS RETURN OF THE PROJECT.......................................... 64
4.12. AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT SCENARIOS AND OPTIONS ................................................. 67
4.12.1. GENERAL ....................................................................................................................... 67
4.12.2. Basis of agricultural development scenarios and options ................................................ 67
4.12.3. Pilot scheme and/or research .......................................................................................... 68
5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ...................................................................... 69
5.1. CONCLUSION .................................................................................................................. 69
5.2. RECOMMENDATION ............................................................................................................. 70
6. REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................ 71
7. ANNEXES ............................................................................................................................... 72
v
Table of Contents
Table 1: Monthly and dependable rainfall and rainfall coefficients: ................................................. 8
Table 2: Existing land use pattern of Birkuta kebele and the project command site. ....................... 12
Table 3: The existing crop rotation patterns of the project area ...................................................... 17
Table 4: Existing cropping pattern and production (rainfed) of Berkuta kebele, 2022/23 ............... 18
Table 5: Existing cropping pattern and production (rainfed) of Libokemkem woreda Woreda,
2022/23 ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Table 6: Existing crop calendar & farming activities for rain-fed (meher) crops at Berkuta kebele 20
Table 7: Irrigation crops production in the Berkuta kebele, 2022/23. ............................................. 21
Table 8: Existing cropping pattern & production of Libo Kemkem Woreda traditional irrigation,
2022/23 ......................................................................................................................................... 22
Table 9: Existing land preparation and weeding frequencies .......................................................... 24
Table 10: Common insect pests and crops infested and control measure used ................................ 26
Table 11: Major weed species and crops infested .......................................................................... 26
Table 12: Major Crop diseases and crops affected ......................................................................... 27
Table 13: Inputs used in Berkuta kebele in 2022/23 cropping year ................................................ 30
Table 14: Existing labour and oxen requirements for major crops and various farm operations ...... 32
Table 15: The possible list of crops for irrigated agriculture .......................................................... 38
Table 16: Cropping system (Wet and dry seasons) ........................................................................ 39
Table 17: Cropping patterns for the proposed project at Qeha command area ................................ 40
Table 18: Irrigation intervals for the dry season proposed crops of Qeha irrigation project ............ 46
Table 19: Maximum depth of irrigation application at Qeha weir irrigation project for dry season . 47
Table 20: The most critical moisture sensitive crops growth stages for proposed crops .................. 48
Table 21: Yield estimation and projection for smallholder farmers' crops, qt/ha. ........................... 51
Table 22: Estimated with-project of smallholder farmers' crops production ................................... 52
Table 23: List of improved and recommended crop varieties ......................................................... 56
Table 24: Fertilizer requirements for proposed crops ..................................................................... 57
Table 25 Input requirements and planting methods for proposed crops .......................................... 58
Table 26: Man-days and oxen-days required for the proposed crops per hectare basis ................... 58
Table 27: Crop budget for proposed project per hectare basis ........................................................ 65
Table 28: Gross return of the proposed project .............................................................................. 66
vi
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Average and 80% dependable rainfall at Addis Zemen station .......................................... 7
Figure 2. Slope map of Qeha irrigation project command area ....................................................... 10
Figure 3: Photo in Part Of Qeha Command Area Topography ....................................................... 11
vii
LIST OF ANNEXES
Annex 1: Meteorological and ETo data of the study area ............................................................... 72
Annex 2: Rainfall data of Addis Zemen ......................................................................................... 72
Annex 3: Length of growing period (LGP), crop coefficient (Kc) and others data for irrigated crops
in wet and dry seasons ................................................................................................................... 73
Annex 4: Net Crop Water Requirements for Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project ............................. 74
Annex 5: Irrigation schedule of Qeha Irrigation Project for proposed crops ................................... 79
Annex 6 Irrigation Scheme of Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project ................................................... 86
Annex 7 Agronomy Data Collection Checklist .............................................................................. 87
viii
ACRONYMS
ADO Agricultural development offices
AARC Adet Agricultural Reasearch Center
ANRS Amhara National Regional stat
ARARI Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute
ASE Amhara Seed Enterprise
BoILLAD Bureau of Irrigation & Low Land Area Development
CSA Centeral Stastical Agency
CEC Cation exchange capacity
CWR Crop Water Requirements
Cm Centimeter
DA Development agent
EC Electrical conductivity
Ep Project efficiency
ETc Crop evapotranspiration
ETo Potential evapotranspiration
ESE Ethiopia Seed Enterprise
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization
FTC Farmers Training centers
FRG Farmer’s Research Group
GIWR Gross irrigation water requirement
Ha Hectare
HH Householdes
Hr Hour
IPM Integrated pest management
Kc Crop coefficient
Kg Kilo gram
Km/h Kilometer per hour
Lt Liter
L/S/H Litter per second per ha
ix
LSDSW Lalibela study,design, supervision & works

LGP Length of growing period
MoA Ministry of Agriculture
M.a.s.l Meter above sea level
M/S Meter per second
MM Millimeter
M Meter
MD Man Day
NMSA National Metrological Service Agency
NIWR Net irrigation water requirement
NGO Non-governmental organization
OC Organic carbon
OD Oxen Day
OM Organic matter
PPM Parts per million
QT Quintal
RF Rainfall
RH Relative humidity
Sec Second
SMS Subject Matter Specialist
S/N Serial number
USDA United State Development Agent
UTM Universal Transverse Mercator
WUA Water User Association
x
SALIENT FEATURES OF THE IRRIGATION PROJECT
Name of the Irrigation Project: Qeha Small Scale Diversion Irrigation Project
Location: Amhara Region, South Gonder Zone, Libo Kemkem Woreda,Berkuta Kebele
Project site elevation: 1955-1930 masl
Soil texture: Clay dominated
Net irrigable land for full irrigation farming: 180 ha
Net irrigable land for supplementary irrigation farming: 180 ha
Water abstraction system: River Diversion structure
Client: ANRS BoILAD
Consultant: LSDSW
xi
1.INTRODUCTION
1.1. General Introduction
The Amhara national regional state has abundant land and water resources (surface and
underground water) which can be used for irrigation development. It is also one of the major crop-
growing regions in the country and contributes a lot for the domestic as well as foreign markets.
However, due to climate changes and thereby uneven distribution and erratic nature of Meher and
Belg rainfall as well as the recurrent drought occurrences, throughout the country in general and
within the region in particular, rainfed agriculture has not been found a reliable means of crop
production.
Irrigation scheme development plays vital role to increase crop production and productivity either
by supplementary or full irrigation. It stabilizes crop production by protecting against drought and
shortage of rain thereby increases crop yields and quality. And hence increases the income of
farmers’ and thereby improves their standard of livings. It also permits farmers to grow high value
(cash) crops and crops that improve their diet. Therefore, development of irrigation projects, which
is supported by effective research, strong extension and credit services, adequate and timely supply
of agricultural inputs (such as: fertilizers, improved seeds, agro-chemicals and farm implements) is
very indispensable to overcome the existing food shortage and other crucial needs. Of course,
encouraging efforts have been done by governmental and none-governmental organizations to
introduce irrigation developments, especially to the drought prone areas of the Region.
The present feasibility level study irrigation development project has centered to Qeha river
diversion irrigation project . The area identified for is located in the Western part of the Amhara
Region, South Gonder zone. The area which is estimated to be about 180 hectares in size was
suggested for irrigation by diverting and constructing weir from Qeha river water sources and using
earthen and lined canals.
This study was carried out, in the study area, to upgrade the traditional irrigation system to modern
irrigation scheme by constructing diversion weir from Qeha river. The study of Qeha Small Scale
irrigation Project was carried out by LSDSW(Consultant).
1
The present agronomy feasibility study report contains, in addition to the introduction, objectives
and the study methodology, the project area profile, existing Rainfed and irrigated crop production
systems, existing agronomic practices, major crop pests and their controlling measures, inputs
requirements and utilizations, proposed crops and cropping patterns, crop water requirements,
irrigation duty, irrigation schedules, supporting services, recommendations and the like, which are
required in the study report of Qeha small scale irrgation project. The feasibility study report also
includes references and annexes (comprising supporting reports prepared for the agronomy study).
In general, the study report can serve as the baseline/guideline for the implementation and
development of the Qeha Small Scale irrigation project, particularly for agronomy part.
2
1.2. Objectives
1.2.1. General Objective
The general objective of the project is to bring about food self-sufficiency (food security) of the
beneficiaries and to produce marketable surplus through the provision of irrigation water and
adoption modern crop production techniques in both wet and dry seasons.
1.2.2. Specific Objective

The specific objectives of the agronomy study is to make inventory on the existing agricultural
practices (farming systems, cropping systems, cropping pattern, crop calendar and crop rotation),
level of support services (i.e., agricultural extension, finance, credits, research and development,
agricultural inputs requirements and utilization and crop protections), existing physical features in
the study area (agro-climatic zones, soil conditions, land use) both traditional and modern irrigation
schemes and assess the potentials and constraints that exist in the project area so as to:-
Assess the existing agricultural, and crop production situations: such as farming system,
cropping systems, cropping pattern, crop calendar, crop rotations, and agriculture support
services, such as agricultural extension system, finance and credit, research and
development levels of agricultural inputs requirement and utilization, etc.
Investigate the present physical features, and agricultural situations in the study area /agro-
ecology, agro-climate zone, land use, topography, soil conditions, water resources/.
Assess the prevailing crop pests, diseases, and weeds of economic importance and their
control levels, etc.
Identity the main constraints of crop productions, and productivities and thereby propose the
necessary intervention measures to ensure development through the possible increase in crop
productivity in the project area.
Propose or select socially acceptable, environmentally friendly, technically feasible and
economically viable crops;
Propose diversified, high yielding and market-oriented cash crops to replace in the long run
existing subsistence cropping system.
Improve crop production and productivity on a sustainable bases by use of appropriate
technologies and practices.
3
Assess the existing institutions delivering financial credits and inputs to the local farmers for
important agricultural inputs, commercial fertilizers, variety seeds, agricultural tools
supplies.
To estimate the inputs requirements and determine the yield potentials of the proposed
crops, farm budgets and gross returns.
Compute the proposed crops’ water requirement and propose faire irrigation intervals for the
understudy project.
1.3. Methodology of the Study

In the project area agronomic survey was carried out during the month of May 2023; and the field
survey study was carried out through: field observation of the project command, held interviews
with key informants and individual farmers, primary and secondary data collection, and conducting
direct discussions and consultations with the concerned development agents (DAs) as well the
office of Libo kemkem woreda agricultural developments.
Observation of gross command area including head work site, vegetation cover, assessment of land
use and land covers, situations of cultivated lands, traditional irrigation practices, and cropping
mixes and patterns, etc are some of the first tasks carried out during the field study period.
Primary data sources were gathered directly from key informants, and individual farmers using
prepared checklist/formats. Assumption and parameters are based on the result of observation, and
discussion carried out among the informants and Development Agents (DAs).
Technical data (number of HHs, land use type, existing cropping pattern, input use of the
beneficiaries, pest occurrence and control measures), which are beyond the scope of beneficiaries,
are collected from Berkuta Kebele agricultural development office. Furthermore, climate,
topography, agro-ecology, land holding size, cropping calendar, crop rotation systems, agricultural
extension services, draft power (oxen) possession, traditional irrigation practices, selection of
appropriate irrigation methods (furrowing), Metrological data and use of crop water requirement
calculating Cropwat 8.0 Software and technical support, man-and oxen-day requirements, general
production constraints and mitigating measures are the major areas given much attention. Primary
and secondary data are also cross checked and incorporated into this report.
4
1.4. Scope of the Study

The scope of work of the present feasibility study includes, among other things:
Assessment of the present situation, including the physical and human environment, crops
and level of production, cropping systems and rotations, and support services such as
extension, finance and credit, and research and development.
Provision of a plan for irrigated agriculture in the project area, including selection of crops
for irrigation, crop make-up, irrigation methods, production methodology, and irrigated
crop management systems, including overall aspects of production.
Provision of overall crop water requirement in space and time for infrastructure planning
and for irrigation scheduling.
Provision of a roadmap for economic development of infrastructure, water user
associations, agro-industry, organized marketing, extension and other cooperative support
services deriving from the project.
5
2. PROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION

2.1. Physical Features
2.1.2. Location and Accessibility
Qeha River Diversion Irrigation Project is found in Amhara National Regional state (ANRS), South
Gondar Administrative Zone of Libo Kemkem woreda, along the main gravel road (to the North-
east) radiating from Addis Zemen (Libo kemkem woreda main town) to Ebinat . It is also about 25
km far (to the north East direction) from Addis Zemen town to Ebinat main gravel road.
The geographic coordinate of the position of the head work site lays at 1336970.6145 Latitude or
North, and 384994.299 Longitude or Easting at an elevation point of 1960.62 masl
2.2. Agro-Ecology and Climate Condition

As per the hydrological analysis and on the basis of the traditional Ethiopian Agro-Ecological
Zones (MOA, 2001), the Qeha Diversion Weir Irrigation Project area is basically classified as
Erteb weinadega (moist cool) agro-ecological zone, indicating better moisture condition in the area
in wet seasons. There is no belg rain season in the project area. Despite the fact that the Meher rains
are considered adequate, there is notable variation in terms of onset, distribution and withdrawal
from year to year affecting crop production in general and crop productivity in particular.
As the project site has no its own meteorological station, Addis zemen (for all Parameters rainfall,
minimum ,maximum temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and sunshine hour) meteorological
stations data were used for the project study as long as these stations are relatively nearer to the
proposed command area. In general, the sources of meteorological data are the National
Meteorology Service Agency (NMSA) and Western Amhara Metrological station.
2.2.1. Rainfall
The project area has unimodal pattern of rainfall. The main rainy season (Meher/Kiremt) occurs
from June to October.
Generally, the rainfall of the project area is characterized by its high variability in distributions.
Thus, the main bottle neck for successful crop production in the area is the nature of uneven
distribution of rain fall. Meher or Kiremt rainfall is largely received in the five months, May, June,
July, August and September. Had it been well distributed throughout the growing season the
amount of rainfall may have been sufficient for the growth of crops for two cropping seasons.
6
Twenty six successive years of rainfall data was used for the computation and analyses of irrigation
water requirements. The monthly total rainfall data record from 1997-2022 was analyzed. The data
source is the National Meteorological Services Agency (NMSA). The average annual rainfall at
Addis zemen is about 1308.2 mm.
The monthly rainfall distribution (Figure 1) has a unimodal or mono-modal characteristic with
better rainfall distribution from June to October.
Addis Zemen Rainfall Data 1997-2022

500.0
450.0
400.0
350.0
300.0
250.0
200.0
150.0
100.0
50.0
0.0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Ave 4.3 2.1 17.5 23.3 78.5 180.8 446.1 387.1 169.2 43.6 14.4 1.6
80% dp RF 3.1 1.5 12.8 17.1 57.5 132.4 326.8 283.6 124.0 31.9 10.5 1.2
RF CV 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.7 1.7 4.1 3.6 1.6 0.4 0.1 0.0
Figure 1: Average and 80% dependable rainfall at Addis Zemen station

The pattern of the seasonality of rainfall in the project area is determined by computing mean
monthly rainfall ratio with that of rainfall module as rainfall coefficient according to Daniel
Gemechu classification shown below:
7
Rainfall Coefficient Designation /Represent/
<0.6 Dry (represent a dry season/month)

≥ 0.6 Rainy (represent a rainy season/month)
0.6 to 0.9 Small Rains (represent small rain season/month)
≥1 Big rains
1.0 to1.9 Moderate (represent big-rains with moderate concentration)
2 to 2.9 High (represent big-rains with high concentration)
3.0 & over Very high (represent big-rains with very high concentration).
Rainfall coefficient which is defined as the ratio of mean monthly rainfall to rainfall module (one-
twelfth of the annual total) is shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Monthly and dependable rainfall and rainfall coefficients
Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
Ave 4.3 2.1 17.5 23.3 78.5 180.8 446.1 387.1 169.2 43.6 14.4 1.6 1308.2
80% dp
RF 3.1 1.5 12.8 17.1 57.5 132.4 326.8 283.6 124.0 31.9 10.5 1.2 958.3
RF CV 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.7 1.7 4.1 3.6 1.6 0.4 0.1 0.0 12.0
Accordingly, May represents small-rains season/month. June and September also represents big-
rains with medium concentration. Moreover, July and August represents big-rains with very high
concentrations of rainfalls. The rest (October, November, December, January, February, March, and
April) are known as dry months. Irrigation is required if crop production is envisaged in the long
period of October to April.
2.2.2. Temperature
The prevailing temperature considerably influences selection of crops and their growing periods.
Optimum temperature plays an important role on the growth period and the production of crops.
The mean minimum and maximum temperature at Addis zemen Station is 11.1 and 29.5 0C,
respectively. The monthly mean minimum temperature varied from 8.2 0C in December to 12.9 0C
in May; and the monthly mean maximum temperature varied from 25.3 0C in August to 32.7 0C in
March. Besides, the frost period is in December; and hail damage also occurs in the months of July
to August in the project area (based on information obtained from the Qeha kebele DAs).
8
2.2.3. Sunshine hours duration

The sunshine hours duration at Addis zemen ranges from 8.9 (Aug) to 12.5 hours/day (March). The
mean annual sunshine hour duration is 11.3
2.2.4. Relative humidity

The relative humidity (RH) at Addis zemen also varies from 63% (January and February) to 73%
(August) and the mean annual RH is 66%.
2.2.5. Wind speed

High desiccating wind in the form of storm not only increases crop water requirements, due to
increased evapotranspiration, but also adversely affects the growth and yields of crops depending on
the crops growth stage, at which it occurs. However, the wind speed at Addis Zemen ranges from
173 km/day (January ) to 173 km/day (December) which is low and not likely to cause any damage
to the crops.
2.3. Command Area Characteristics

2.3.1. Topography
The nature of topography can influence soils of an area in many ways. In irrigated agriculture,
topography influences the choice of irrigation method, the irrigation efficiency, the labour
requirement, cost of land development, the problems of drainage, the hazards of erosion, the range
of possible crops that can be grown, and the size/shape of fields to put under cultivation. The
suitable soils occur on a range of slopes up to 12%; while the slope of land greater than 12% is
considered permanently unsuitable for irrigation for all land use types (LUTs).
Based on data obtained from Berkuta Kebele Agricultural Development Offices, where the project
site is located, the topography of the kebele are: 40% plain, 37% rouged, 20 % and 3% valley. In
addition, Based on the survey data and the computation result of the proposed command area (using
ArcGIS 10.1 software) the slope gradient of the gross command area ranges from 0.3 % to 28%
slope gradients/classes. Owing to the computation results majority of the net command area is
found in slope ranges of b/n 3% to 8%; hence the command area lays in flat or almost flat to gently
sloping topographic features.
9
Figure 2. Slope map of Qeha irrigation project command area
The project command area is situated at the right side of Qeha River (to the West side of the river).
The natural topographic feature of the command area has inclined from the North-East to the South-
West direction.
10
Accordingly, most of the command area has identified to be suitable for surface irrigation method.
As observed on the field, the topography of the command area most of the land is flat to gently
slope land. From the abovementioned evidences and the agro-ecological situation of the project
area, the under study irrigation project is believed to be encouraging for the production of cash
crops to bring about rapid and sustainable development of the proposed area.
Figure 3: Photo in Part Of Qeha Command Area Topography
11
2.4. Land Use System and Soil Characteristics

2.4.1. Land Use System
Land use applies to the current use of the land, whether agricultural or non-agricultural, in which
the soil or command area is located (FAO, 2006). Land use has a major influence on the direction
and rate of soil formation. Land use in the study area is dominated by traditional rain fed peasants
farming on individual holdings and grazing of livestock on private and/or communal forest and
bush lands. The total area of Berkuta Kebele is about 3884 hectares. Of these the largest area share
is covered by cultivated land, 1794 hectares (46.2%), 210 ha grazing land (5.40%), the forest and
bush lands is 1681ha (43.3%), 150 hectares (3.9%) of land used for construction and 31 (0.80%)
hectares are others useless lands. ( based on data obtained from Birkuta Kebele and Libo kemkem
Woreda Agricultural Offices).
Table 2: Existing land use pattern of Birkuta kebele and the project command site.
S/N Land use Command area Berkuta Kebele Libo kemkem woreda
type
Area in % cover Area in % cover Area in % cover
(ha) (ha) (ha)
1 Cultivated 180 100 1794 46.2 71599.37 71.62
land
2 Grazing land - 210 5.40 4798.61 4.8
3 Forest lands - 1381 35.6 14805.73 14.81
4 bush lands - 300 7.7
5 Water body - 18 0.50 1499.56 1.5
6 Construction - 150 3.9
land
7 Others - 31 0.80 7267.90 7.27
Total Area 180 100 3884 100 99971.19 100
Source: Birkuta kebele, Field Observation and Libo kemkem woreda Agricultural Development Offices.
2.4.1.1. Land Tenure System, Land Holding Size and Share Cropping
According EFDRE constitution land is the property of the State and Ethiopian Nation and
Nationalities. The land holders have a use right for their land and may rent out their land for not
more than 25 years. The holding right to farmland is unlimited. Regular holders of land rights in
Kebele include private farmer, communal holders, Governmental and non-governmental
institutions.
Based on information obtained from land use and administration development agent Berkuta Kebele
and the local farmers, different land tenure systems has existed in the project area. Some of them are
12
regular land use right, sharecropping, providing the straw obtained from the ploughed farmland to
the owner of the oxen, and exchange of human labor by oxen power.
The average farmland holding size of individual households (HH) is about 0.75 hectare and it is
cultivated annually as there are land shortages in the area. In addition, most of the HHs found in the
project area has fragmented lands on average from 3 places. In general, the individual households’
average land holding size is decreasing through years owing to population number increase. In such
situations, to satisfy the needs of additional food requirements of the growing number of population,
crop yields has to be increased by employing agricultural intensification approaches such as
application of irrigation water, introduction of improved farmland inputs, use of appropriate farm
managements, employing better cultivation techniques, etc.
In the project area land becomes a scarce resource due to the increase of population and extension
of family size; this demographic change forces the farmers to search for extra land for renting.
Individual who have no land or to satisfy additional land need sharecropping is a common practice
in the project area. Land holders usually exchange land for a 50% or an equal share of its annual
production of the particular farmland. For reasons of labor availability and holding size, female
headed households are frequently involved in sharecropping agreements.
2.4.2. Soil Characteristics

Soil properties, such as physical, chemical, etc., greatly influences the growth and thereby yields of
crops which are grown in the area. To identify the soil fertility status of the command area, for the
recommendation of important macro elements for the required fertilizer application purposes, a soil
survey has been carried out by the soil survey team. The soil samples were collected from Qeha
command and submitted to the soil laboratory for the analysis of physical and chemical properties
of the sampled soils. The lab result and its detailed analysis has presented from the soil surveying
team report. On top of this, soils of the command area are predominantly clay textured soils.
Furthermore, the effective soil depth of the command area has categorized as deep to very deep
(100-160cm) based on measurements taken from dug out soil pits.
13
2.5. Natural Vegetation Cover

Based on information obtained from Berkuta kebele Development Center, the major trees
naturally grown and artificially planted there are: Bahir Zaf(Eucalyptus globulus), Girar (Acacia
abyssinica),Bisana(Croton macrostachyus), Weyra(Oleo Africana), Warka (Ficus vasta). Bushes
are: Atat, kega,Agam, Girar, etc. However, much of the command area is presently used to grow
annual crops.
2.6.Water Resources
There are perennial rivers (such as Qeha and Rib) and springs (Kusheshelet,Asa kuret,Aba
selama,Regereg and Dangura) in the project area. Irrigation practices are being carried out in the
project kebele (Berkuta) by using water from different small streams with water pumps and
traditional diversion structures. Moreover, farmers also use perennial springs for irrigation purpose
in the area (such as Asa kuret). Qeha River is the source of the present diversion irrigation scheme
which is under study and is going to be implemented.
14
3. PRESENT AGRICULTURAL SITUATION

3.1. Farming System
The livelihood of the rural communities, especially in the project area and its surroundings, is
almost entirely dependent on agriculture and its related sectors. The most common farming practice
is smallholder mixed-agriculture whereby crop cultivation is integrated with livestock husbandry,
which is a strategy adopted by smallholder farmers to minimize risks of crop failure in the face of
unreliable rainfall pattern. Thus, high and mid-highland mixed-farming is the common agricultural
practice being carried out in the project area where livestock production is undertaken
complementary to crop production, and almost all the farming society practice this activity. In
general, the main agro-economic base of the area is mixed-farming of field crops and rearing of
animals, like cattle (oxen, cow, bulls, hifers and calves), sheep, goats, pack animals (donkey, mule
and horses), hens and bee hives (modern, transitional and cultural).
The farming system, which accounts for the bulk of food production in the area, is characterized by
subsistence farming with its typical feature of low input to low output productivity. Crop production
is predominantly carried out both under rain-fed and irrigated conditions. Some times natural
vagaries, such as excess rainfall, hail damages and flood hazards, occurs in the wet season. In
addition to this, crop diseases, insect pests and weeds, especially on cereal and vegetable crops,
such as bacterial wilt of potatoes in dry season, yellow rust of wheat, chacholate spot on faba bean,
root rot on garlic and onion, aphids damage on cabbage, etc are hindrances of crop productions in
the project area.
At present, farmers in the project area are using their farmlands for both rain-fed and irrigated
subsistence cropping. Consequently, almost all their staple food production comes from the two
cropping systems. Irrigated farming is traditionally and considerately practiced in the project area.
Generally, irrigated agricultural production system has well-adopted and being carried out on
farmlands, where irrigation water sources are available, by using motor pumps and constructing
traditional diversion structures along rivers (such as Qeha river) as well as developing many
perennial and seasonal springs.
3.2. Cropping System

The market situation and the physical environmental conditions of the area are among the major
factors that influence the types of crops grown and are also the causes of farmers to grow similar
15
mixes of crops. When we consider the situation of the project area based on the following cropping
systems is being practiced.
3.2.1. Shifting Cultivation

In this system, the farm is not at a permanent location. Instead, a piece of land is cleared, farmed for
a few years, and then abandoned in preference for a new site. While the new site is being farmed,
natural vegetation is allowed to grow on the old site. Eventually, after several years of bush fallows,
the farmer returns to the original location. However, in the study area shifting cultivation does not
practice.
3.2.2. Mono-Cropping
From scientific point of view mono-cropping is not appropriate. However, cereals are mostly
rotated by cereals (such as teff by millet, millet by wheat, wheat by maize, maize by barely or
wheat) in the project area. Local farmers also practice mono-cropping by same type of crops, such
as maize by maize rotations. Nevertheless, there are also farmers practicing rotation of cereals by
vegetables, specifically in irrigated cropping.
3.2.3. Intercropping
The alternative practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same field is called
inter-cropping. The various crops in the intercrop do not necessarily have to be sown or harvested at
the same time, the main requirement is that they are on the field at the same time for a significant
part of their growing periods. The type of intercropping practices in the project area are mixed
intercropping. The type of crop grown in mixed cropping is growing of Maize (the main crop) with
Fababean,Maize with Potato.
3.2.4. Crop Rotation

The practice of growing different kinds of crops, one at a time, in a definite sequence on the same
piece of land. Farmers of the project area usually rotate cereals with cereals which is maize with
finger millet or tef with millet and barely with maize. However, the rotation does not keep the
principle of crop rotation (Table 3).
16
Table 3: The existing crop rotation patterns of the project area

1st Meher Season 2nd Meher Season
Maize Maize
Millet Teff
Wheat Millet
Haircotbean Millet
Barely Maize
Source: Berkuta Kebele agricultural development offices.
3.3. Crops Production and Yields

3.3.1. Rain-fed Crops, Cropping Patterns and Crop Calendar
The rain-fed agriculture is mainly based on wet season (Kiremt) rainfall. In the project area, the
long rainy season or Kiremt occurs from the late of May to September. During this time of span
different crops are grown. Sometimes, however, the rain season starts in early June and ends in
October. Therefore, depending on the climatic factors, late or early start of Kiremt rainfall, the
cultivated land coverage or cropping pattern varies from year to year. Furthermore, farmers’
preferences, market values, quality of land preparation, pest incidences, input availability, length of
growing period (LGP), food values of the crops, and so on determine the cropping pattern too.
As altitude governs the temperature, rainfall, and types of crops that can be grown, the project area
is suitable for the production of mid high land crops. The major crops grown during wet seasons in
Project area kebele, where the project site is found, includes maize, finger millet, teff, wheat, barely
and Fababean.
Based on the crop yield assessment data of the project area Kebele agricultural development offices,
for 2022/23 cropping year, maize is the leading crop grown that accounts for almost around 25 %
of the total area coverage followed by teff.(see table 4)
17
Table 4: Existing cropping pattern and production (rainfed) of Berkuta kebele, 2022/23
S/ Crop type Cropped Area Productivity( Production( Cropped Producti Productio
N qt/ha) qt) area vity(qt/ n(qt)
command ha)
area
(ha) (%)
1 Maize 450 25.1 42 18900 60 43 2580
2 Teff 350 19.5 18 6300 38 19 722
3 Millet 269 15.0 30 8070 35 28 980
4 Fababean 175 9.8 33 5775 20 9 180
5 Food barely 155 8.6 27 4185 22 30 660
6 Haircotbean 145 8.1 28 4060
7 Wheat 78 4.3 22 1716 5 75 375
8 Nigerseed 48 2.7 11 528
9 Rice 30 1.7 45 1350
10 Fieldpea 10 0.6 10 100
11 Potato 55 3.1 130 7150
12 Onion 2.75 0.2 120 330
13 Garlic 1.5 0.1 95 142.5
14 Pepper 24.75 1.4 54 1336.5
Total 1794 100.0 665 59943 180 204 5497
Source: Berkuta kebele Agricultural Development Office
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Table 5: Existing cropping pattern and production (rainfed) of Libokemkem woreda Woreda, 2022/23
S/N Crop type Cropped Area Productivity(qt/ Production(qt)

(ha) (%) ha)
1 Teff 4750 12.02 17.74 84248
2 wheat 4600 11.64 25.39 116798.2
3 Food barely 2500 6.33 33.52 83805
4 Millet 1800 4.56 23.67 42600
5 Aja 350 0.00 0.00 6250
6 Rice 13500 34.17 60.04 810505
7 Maize 5499 13.92 43.32 238194
8 Sorghum 1079 2.73 25.79 27828
9 Fababean 2406 6.09 21.77 52386
10 Fieldpea 500 1.27 18.00 9000
11 Chickpea 0 0.00 0.00 44680
12 Lentil 200 0.51 8.57 1713.5
13 Grasspea 0 0.00 0.00 140620
14 Haircotbean 1525 3.86 20.31 30977
15 Nigerseed 700 1.77 6.06 4240
16 Flax 400 1.01 6.66 2663
17 Groundnut 50 0.13 16.00 800
Total 39509 100.00 326.83 1697308
Source: Libo Kemkem Woreda Agricultural Development Office
Cropping calendar and activities schedule for wet season has illustrated in Table 6.
19
Table 6: Existing crop calendar & farming activities for rain-fed (meher) crops at Berkuta kebele
S/N Crop types Land preparation Sowing Weeding Harvesting Threshing
/cultivation
I Wet season
1.1 Teff Mar-May July Aug-Sep Oct Dec
1.2 Maize Mar-April May June-July Oct Nov
1.3 Millet Mar-May May-Early June July-Aug Nov-Dec Jan
1.4 Wheat Mar-May June July-Aug Oct-Nov End Nov
II Dry season
2.1 Onion Oct-Nov Nov Nov-Dec Jan
2.2 Garlic Oct-Nov Nov Nov-Dec Jan
2.3 Potato Nov-Dec Dec Jan Feb-Mar
2.4 Cabbage Oct Nov Nov-Dec Jan
Source: Key informant farmers’ interview of Berkuta kebele during field survey.
3.3.2. Existing Irrigated Agriculture and Practices

At present farmers in the project area are using their farmlands predominantly for rain-fed
subsistence cropping. Hence, almost all their staple food production comes from this system.
Irrigated farming system is not commonly practicing in the project area hence it can be said that
irrigated farming in the project area is nominal. The existing low productivity and production
capacity of rain-fed crops, rainfall abnormalities, increasing of population growth, and scarcity of
farmlands for young youths as well as damages caused by different crop pests is enforcing farmers
to develop traditional irrigation practices.
In general, farmers of the project area are traditionally trying to practice crop production. The first
one is rain-fed crop production which is the main income base and constitutes of the annual
cultivated land; and the second is irrigated crop production (traditional) that accounts very low
share of the whole cultivated land area for the 2022 cropping year.
According to the 2022 annual irrigated crops area and yield estimation data, obtained from Berkuta
Kebele and Libokemkem woreda Agriculture Development Office, a total of about 384.59 and
12163.1 hectares of land was covered by irrigated crops has illustrated in table 7 and 8,
respectively.
20
Table 7: Irrigation crops production in the Berkuta kebele, 2022

S/N Crop type Area covered Productivity(qt/ha) Production
Ha % (qt)
1 Wheat 225.75 58.70 20.75 4684.3
2 Teff 26.0 6.76 16 416.0
3 Garlic 21.5 5.59 140 3010.0
4 Onion 31.5 8.19 165 5197.5
5 Potato 33 8.58 150 4950.0
6 Tomato 4.5 1.17 156 702.0
7 Papaya 1.15 0.30 330 379.5
8 Mango 13.2 3.43 318 4197.6
9 Avocado 12.9 3.35 56 722.4
10 Banana 1.6 0.42 4.5 7.2
11 Orange 2.3 0.60 29 66.7
12 Guava 10.6 2.76 118 1250.8
13 Lemon 0.06 0.02 28 1.7
14 Coffee 0.53 0.14 6.5 3.4
Total 384.59 100.00 1537.75 25589.1
In the project woreda (Libo kemkem) the major crops grown under traditional and modern irrigation
practices are wheat, Onion, Potato, Garlic and teff etc (Table 8). However, beneficiaries of existing
irrigation system use in some extent improved seeds and fertilizers to increase the production and
productivity of irrigated crops.
21
Table 8: Existing cropping pattern & production of Libo Kemkem Woreda traditional irrigation, 2022
S/N Crop type Area covered Productivity(qt/ha) Production
Ha % (qt)
1 Maize 517 4.25 62.00 32054
2 Barely 32 0.26 37.00 1184
3 Emmer wheat 621.05 5.11 46.00 28568.3
4 Wheat 651 5.35 47.00 30597
5 Teff 2423.55 19.93 41.50 100577.325
6 Onion 1914.65 15.74 600.00 1148790
7 Shallot 255.3 2.10 407.00 103907.1
8 Potato 1972 16.21 545.00 1074740
9 Tomato 151 1.24 650.00 98150
10 Garlic 1351.25 11.11 168.00 227010
11 Swich Chard 51 0.42 350.00 17850
12 Lettuce 33.5 0.28 303.00 10150.5
13 Cabbage 71.75 0.59 460.00 33005
14 Sweet potato 19.25 0.16 200.00 3850
15 Water melon 3.5 0.03 450.00 1575
16 Beet root 19.27 0.16 286.00 5511.22
17 Carrot 12 0.10 230.00 2760
18 Onion seed production 313 2.57 9.00 2817
19 Pepper 468.95 3.86 31.00 14537.45
20 Fenugreek 44 0.36 13.50 594
21 Chickpea 281.45 2.31 37.00 10413.65
22 Grass pea 33 0.27 21.00 693
23 Haricot bean 25.5 0.21 20.00 510
24 Lentil 21.5 0.18 23.00 494.5
25 Chat 21.56 0.18 3.50 75.46
26 Orange 32 0.26 210.00 6720
27 Avocado 59 0.49 279.00 16461
28 Mango 321 2.64 277.00 88917
29 Pappaya 143 1.18 333.00 47619
30 Guava 121 0.99 207.00 25047
31 Apple 0.75 0.01 75.00 56.25
32 Gesho 162.57 1.34 13.00 2113.41
33 Banana 4.5 0.04 125.00 562.5
34 Coffee 7.25 0.06 3.00 21.75
35 Suger cane 4 0.03 192.00 768
Total 12163.1 100.00 6754.50 3138700.415
Source: Libo kemkem woreda Agricultural Development Office.
22
Concerning the irrigation development supporting services, like other Woredas of the region,
irrigation and Low land Areas Development Office has already established under Libo Kemkem
Woreda. Furthermore, irrigation expert has already assigned in Berkuta kebele.
During public meeting discussion, which was carried out during field survey period, farmers of the
project kebele has showed strong interest on the upgrading of the traditional irrigation scheme of
Qeha River to modern type.
3.3.3. Experience of Private and State Agricultural Enterprises

There are no notable private investment farming companies and state agricultural enterprises in the
project are other than smallholder farmers.
3.4. Cropping Practices and Use of Technologies

Analyses of existing agricultural practices are one of the important elements in agricultural
development planning. This includes both pre-harvest and post-harvest practices (tillage, land
preparation, seed bed preparation, planting methods and date of planting, transplanting, irrigation,
application of fertilizers and manure, cultivation, pest control, crop rotation, harvesting, threshing
and winnowing, transport, storage, marketing, etc). These practices had been done by all farmers in
the area even though the degree of implementation are varies.
3.4.1. Pre-Harvest Practices

3.4.1.1. Tillage and land preparation
In the project area, land preparation commences from land clearing, i.e., clearing of shrubs, weeds,
and plant residues. Stirring the soil for the benefit of domesticated plants is known as tillage.
Annual weeds are controlled more effectively by tillage than are perennials. Tillage for seedbed
preparation is intended to destroy existing weeds and to stimulate the germination of weed seeds in
the topsoil layers. Seedbed preparation in the project area has been carried out using animal-drawn
local plough called ''Maresha”. This practice has been used since ancient times and is still in use
without any improvement. They prefer this plough since it is cheaper, versatile, lighter, and easily
maneuverable. Tillage also enables farmers to control weeds which would otherwise compete with
their crops for soil moisture, nutrients, and light. Furthermore, it assists in the mixing and burying
of previous crop residues into the soil, controlling certain insect pests and plant diseases.
23
Plowing is the basic tillage operation in that the main purpose is to loosen, turn, and mix the soil,
burying crop residues, vegetation, or manure. It also brings to the surface a layer of soil from below
and exposing it to weathering. Subsequent tillage operations, normally called secondary tillage, is
harrowing, clod crushing, leveling, and weed control (cultivation) in the standing crops. The
frequency of plowing in the project area varies with soil types, types of plowing equipment, and
crops to be grown. The highest frequency of plowing is done for teff and finger millet. In general,
the frequency of plowing varies from two to five depending on the crop types (see Table 9); and the
time and labor required for primary land preparation are greater than planting (sowing) operations.
Table 9: Existing land preparation and weeding frequencies
Crop type Frequencies of Ploughing Weeding and/or cultivation
Rain fed
Teff 5 1-2
Maize 3 1-2(1 hoeing)
Millet 4-5 1-2
Barely 4 1-2
Wheat 4 1-2
Faba bean 1-2 1
Irrigation
Onion 4 3-4 (3 with hoeing all)
Garlic 4 3-4 (3 with hoeing all)
Potato 4 3-4 (3 with hoeing all)
Tomato 4 3 (3 with hoeing all)
Cabbage 4 3(3 with hoeing all)
Source: key informant.
3.4.1.2. Planting /Sowing

Following land preparation, sowing or planting operation traditionally starts in the month of May
for maize using pre-emergence supplementary irrigation water, in June for millet, in July for teff,
and in June for wheat. Generally, sowing begins shortly after the first rain shower for rain-fed crops.
Farmers of the project area commonly sow/plant seeds of barley, wheat, millet and teff crops using
broadcasting method. Row planting is being practiced for horticultural crops (like, potato, shallot,
onion, garlic, cabbage, etc). Moreover, almost all farmers use local seeds for planting purposes
except very few farmers who are using improved vegetable seeds by purchasing from Addis zemen,
Ebinat and other towns. The major reasons in that farmers of the project area are not using
24
improved crop varieties mostly due to lack of supply of improved seeds on time basis, farmers’ fear
(doubt) on use of improved crop varieties, with no demonstrations for variety adaptations, due to
excess rainfall of the project area and low level of wealth ranks local farmers’ do not show interest
for purchasing improved seeds (price increase of improved seeds). The local varieties are low in
yield potentials.
3.4.1.3. Crop protection practices

Every year a significant amount of crop yield is lost due to crop pest infestation. In this day, in most
farming systems, natural mechanisms of regulating the population of crop pests and other organisms
have been disturbed or partially replaced by artificial mechanisms such as chemicals and drugs.
Under such unnatural conditions, if not using chemicals it will lead to considerable production
losses. Hence, instead of direct use of chemicals, other alternative pest control measures are
growing such as application of integrated pest management (IPM) method.
In integrated pest management, in the context of farmer’s environment and the population dynamics
of the pest species all suitable techniques and methods are used in the most compatible manner
possible to maintain pest population at the level below those causing economic injury.
Generally, chemical pest control measures are recommended only if all the mechanical, biological,
and physical measures are ineffective to bring the losses caused by the pest below the economic
injury level. In the project area, there are economically important insect pests, weeds, and diseases
of crops.
a) Insect pest
In the project area, there are economically important insect pests, weeds, and diseases of crops.
Africa ball worm, spotted stem, cutworm, aphids, termites, and weevils (in storage) are some of the
most important insect pests causing extensive damages to different crops (See Table 10).
25
Table 10: Common insect pests and crops infested and control measure used
Crop pests Scientific name Host Control measures (Methods)
Crops Cultural Chemical
Stalk borer Buseiola fusca Maize Pulling out infected plant Carbaryl 85%WP1.5kg/ha
Shoot fly Delia Teff Deep plough & expose Malathion 50% EC 2 L/ha.
arambourgi larvae
Termites Different spp All crops Destruct the mound, & kill Malathion 50% EC 2L/ha
the Queen
Aphids Aphis spp Cabbage Spray fermented cattle urine Diamethoat 40% EC.2L/ha
Source: Project area kebele Agricultural Development Office and key informant.
B) Weeds
Weeding is the next operation immediately after sowing, and even sometimes sowing overlap with
weed control and at this time more labour is required; especially July and August are the months
that require more labour.
Weed floras are one of the most important pests known to cause great crop yield loss and quality
reductions. The control mechanism used by farmers is hand weeding for most crops and hoeing for
some other crops like onion, Garlic, cabbage, etc. However, the quality of weeding, time of
weeding, and the frequency of weeding affects the yield and makes below the standard quality.
Some of the most common weed types found in the project area, the crops infested, and the extent
of damage has shown below in (Table 11).
Table 11: Major weed species and crops infested
S/N Common Name Scientific Name Crops infested
1 Striga (Akenchira) Striga hermontica Maize
2 Yenug Anbessa(Amharic), dodder Cuscuta Nigerseed
3 Mech Guizotia scabra All crops
4 Amekela/Yeset Milas (Amharic) Hygrophila auriculata All crops
5 Aluma/Amedmado (Amharic) Amaranthus sp. All crops
Source: project kebele Agricultural Development Office.

C) Crop disease
Farmers in the project area do not have the concept of crop diseases. For this reason, they don’t
practice direct control measures. They relate the effects of crop diseases with insect pests. Diseases
are not scientifically diagnosed by expertise in the area, and hence shortfall of clear understanding
26
of diseases is another problem. The most common crop diseases identified and cause crops’ yield
reductions in the project area are: Yellow rust of wheat , bulb and root rot on onion,checholate spot
of faba bean and late blight of potato, etc (Table 12). The crops attacked by crop diseases and there
extent of damage are not all well known.
Table 12: Major Crop diseases and crops affected
S/N Types of diseases Crops attacked Extent of Damage
Common Name Scientific Name
1 Yellow rust Puccini spp. Wheat Medium
2 Late blight Phytophtera infestance Potato Medium
3 Bulb & root rot Fusarium spp Onion/garlic, pepper Medium
4 Chocolate spot Botrytis fabae Faba bean Medium
Source: Berkuta Kebele Agricultural Development Offices.
D)Vertebrate pest
Rodents, regular Birds and Monkeys are some of the most important Vertebrate pests that affect
crop production in the area. Rodents attack both in fields (outdoors) and storages (indoors) mostly
on cereal crops; Monkeys attacks: almost all crop types especially maize and fababean; Regular bird
pests attack different crop types, particularly barley, wheat and maize in the field. The control
measures used for vertebrate pests are dominantly using cultural or traditional methods.
3.4.2.Post-Harvest Practices
3.4.2.1. Harvesting and threshing
Harvesting and threshing are the final operations, and are the most labour intensive, and time-
consuming operations, and are done traditionally in the project area. Harvesting is carried out by
human labour using the local hand tool ‘Sickle’; and the harvested crops are piled up until the time
of threshing.
Cereal, pulse, and oil crops are left on the ground for about one to two days to get sun-dry after
harvest and then stay piled up to one month for finger millet, and teff, since it is hard for separation
of seeds from straws during threshing. The rest of the crops get threshed soon they get harvest.
Horticultural crops like onion, cabbage, are taken to the local market after harvest (for sale)
continuously or gradually, and also used for home consumptions.
27
The harvested, and piled crops are threshed by human labour, and animal power after a threshing
ground (Awudma) has been selected, cleaned, and compacted by sprinkling water; for teff, and they
plaster the threshing ground with dissolved cattle dung. Crop threshing is carried out by oxen, and
sterile cows by trampling on it. Farmers continuously turn the straw with a forked stick, locally call
it ‘Meshin’, to get the panicles exposed to the oxen/cows’ hooves, and the grain gets loosen and
eparated. The straw and chaffs are separated from the grain by the process of winnowing with the
help of local tools such as Layda and Metol.
3.4.2.2. Storage
After cleaning the grain farmers pack the produces by plastic bags, and transport to their home for
storage by loading on donkey’s back. The produces are stored in different storage structures. teff,
wheat and faba bean and are commonly stored in local Gottera, gotta (made of bamboos that
smoothly plastered by mud), and teff is also stored in Gushgusha made of wet mud mixed with teff
bran); While pulse crops, such as grass pea are stored by plastic bags (Kesha). The storage
structures are placed in the house (in the door) to protect from looting and rain. The storage
structures are placed in the house (in the door) to protect from looting and rain.
Regardless of the types of structures used, and the precautionary measures are taken, the overall
annual losses of stored grains by (rodents, birds, and insect pests like weevils) are high. The local
losses due to poor storage of grains have estimated to be about 8-10 % (based on the information
obtained from the kebele DAs).
3.5. Farm Inputs Supply and Utilization Experiences

The two essential agricultural inputs (fertilizers and improved seeds) are supplied by Admas Union
and distributed to the local farmers by Ambo meda farmers’ service cooperatives. The other
important input, i.e. agro-chemicals is purchased by individual farmers from private traders in the
free markets. The supply and distribution of fertilizers has summarized in Table 13. A total of 1480
and 1615.5 quintals of NPSB and UREA fertilizers was used in Berkuta Kebele in 2022/23
cropping years, respectively.
Ambo meda Farmers’ Service Co-operative are community based organizations that involves in the
inputs supply and distribution systems. Despite the weak organizational set up of farmers’ service
cooperatives in the project area Ambo meda Union is providing inputs supply services to the
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required members. Improved seeds of wheat and maize are the dominant seeds used by smallholder
farmers. Vegetable seeds are purchased by local farmers from private traders.
Regarding the supply and distribution of agro-chemicals, mainly herbicides and insecticides are
purchased from private dealers in the free market. The aforementioned suppliers are not involved in
the supply and distribution of agro-chemicals. However, during the outbreak of major regular pests,
like army worm, stalk borer and aphids, it is mandatory to supply the required chemicals by the
government.
The physical, chemical and biological processes, in the soils, are strongly influenced by climates,
plants and animals life, and activities of human beings. Generally, fertilizer inputs are added to the
farmlands to improve the capacity of the soils to supply plant nutrients for the plants/crops sown.
3.5.1. Organic Input Use

As most parts of the region, animal dung is used for fuel wood and hence very few farmers are
using for soil management. Even though trainings have been given for many of the local farmers, on
compost preparation and its uses due to low awareness among only few farmers have been prepared
compost (45325 m3 by 349 farmers) and used on their farmland in Berkuta Kebele in 2022/2023
cropping year. .
3.5.2. Commercial input

Modern inputs such as chemical fertilizers (NPSB & UREA), Bio-fertilizer, improved seeds, and
agrochemicals are introduced into the area through agricultural extension systems. In the study,
farmers are use of inputs which is below the recommended rate. In the study area demand and
supply of inputs are unbalanced. Strong credit facilities and agricultural extension supports should
have to be intensified to encourage the input used in the project area; otherwise, the level of input
use will become reduce in the coming years and hence production becomes lower than the present.
The types and amounts of inputs, improved seeds, agro-chemicals, and farm tools distributed and
used in 2022/23 cropping year in Project kebele has presented in Table 13.
Based on data obtained from Berkuta kebele DAs and information gathered from local farmers,
artificial fertilizers are applied for maize, wheat, barely, finger millet and teff. Furthermore, use of
improved seeds (such as maize, wheat and tef) is in an encouraging situation. Some of the inputs
that are being distributed in the area are fertilizers, improved seeds, agro-chemicals, and farm tools.
The inputs’ distribution data in 2022/23 cropping year in Project kebele are presented in Table 13.
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Table 13: Inputs used in Berkuta kebele in 2022/23 cropping year

Types of Inputs Unit Berkuta kebele Varity
Soil fertilizers Qt
NPSB “ 1480
UREA " 1615
Lime " -
Improved seeds
Teff Qt 17.4 Quncho,Etsub
Maize " 52.5 BH 540,Limu
Wheat " 4.0 Kekeba
Rice ’’ 3.5 Shega
Agro-chemicals
Insecticides Lt/kg 6.5 kg
Herbicides " 150 Li
Fungicides " 54 Li
Farm tools
Water pumps " Na
Geo-membrane (lined) " Na
Drippers (farmers level) " Na
Pedal pumps " Na
Pics bag No 85
Metal sione No 7
BBM No 285
Na=data not available
Source: Berkuta kebele Agricultural Development Office
3.6. Labour and Draught Power Conditions

Like most parts of the country, the main power source of production in the Amhara region in
general and the project area in particular is human labor and oxen power. Almost all rural
populations of the region in general and project area, in particular, earn their living by manual labor.
As compared to mechanized agriculture, manual labor requires mobilization of more human labor at
a time for seasonal farm operations. Oxen and donkey powers are the most important power sources
of the area next to human labor. This unskilled labor has been used for the last centuries and is still
in use without any modification.
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3.6.1. Labour Power

The rural populations are directly dependent on human labour for their livelihood within the region
in general and the project area in particular. No farming activities can be carried out without direct
involvement of human labour. All agricultural production processes from primary land preparation
up to final consumption are carried out using this unskilled labour. This labour is readily available
and relatively cheap in some months of the year except April to December where critical farming
operations take place.
Furthermore, when farmers are facing a problem of shortage of labour during crop production
processes they use group working systems. Such type of group working system is common in the
project area and they locally call it ‘Wonfel’ in Amharic. The major agricultural activities and time
where community labour is needed and used are in wet seasons during crop planting, weeding,
harvesting, and threshing times (especially for soya bean, maize). As to the existing labour
requirements of the project area see Table 14.
3.6.2. Draught Power

Draught animals make an important contribution to Ethiopian agriculture and the rural economy.
Generally, draught animals, such as oxen sometimes cows are the main power sources of traction
and threshing in the Amhara region in general and the project area in particular. Cows are mostly
used for milking and replacement of oxen. In the project area, donkeys carry out transportable
materials, including farm products. The main constraint encountered in the rearing of animals is the
shortage of feeds. Grazing system, in the overgrazed area and hay & straw as a supportive feed, is
the animal feeding system in the project area. However, the feed sources are not sufficient enough
for existing cattle and hence the traction power of draught animals and the milking potential of
cows are lower than their potential.
Oxen are the major source of draft-power in the project area. The total numbers of Oxen and
households (HHs) found in Project kebele are 2358 and 1860, respectively. (based on data obtained
from DAs of Berkuta kebele). Farmers, who have no farm oxen, grow crops using a traditional
renting agreement. The first means is using a sharecropping system where the produce is shared
between the landowner and the sharecropper equally except that the straw is fully offered for the
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sharecropper only. The second means is the exchange of labour power for oxen power with a 1:1the
ratio. The third means is begging oxen power from relatives and friends.
The existing labour and oxen requirements of the project area for various farm-operations and major
crop types on a one-hectare basis are presented in Table 14.
Table 14: Existing labour and oxen requirements for major crops and various farm operations
Crop Man & Land Sowing Weeding Irrigation Harvesting Threshing
type Oxen days Preparation &
cultivation
Teff MD 12 8 24 0 24 16
OD 16 8 0 0 0 4
Maize MD 20 12 20 0 32 16
OD 20 8 0 0 0 20
Wheat MD 12 8 16 0 20 12
OD 16 8 0 0 0 12
Millet MD 12 8 16 0 20 12
OD 20 8 0 0 0 12
Faba MD 10 6 18 0 18 12
bean
OD 14 6 0 0 0 4
Onion MD 24 40 28 12 40 0
OD 24 0 0 0 0 16
Potato MD 22 38 28 12 34 0
OD 22 0 0 0 0 12
Garlic MD 24 40 28 12 40 0
OD 24 0 0 0 0 16
Tomato MD 20 36 26 12 36 0
OD 20 0 0 0 0 16
Source: Farmers of the project area and Consultant estimation
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3.7. Agricultural Support Services

3.7.1. Agricultural Extension and Training
Agricultural extension is the technology dissemination service to potential producers (i.e.,
smallholder farmers, private investors, etc.). To facilitate the technology dissemination process and
the information transfer three development agents are mainly assigned in each Kebeles who have
trained in and working in different disciplines, i.e., crop production, livestock production, natural
resources management. Furthermore, in each agricultural development center, the head person has
assigned to lead and manage all agricultural activities carried out within the Kebele.
Furthermore, there is an extension team (work process) under the Woreda agricultural development
office (ADO) level. Technical staffs from the Woreda ADO provide technical supports to
development agents as required. In-service training is also given to development agents to improve
their skills and introduce extension package programs.
Libo Kemkem Woreda Agricultural Development Offices carry out agricultural extension activities
generally within the Woreda and particularly at the development center level (kebele). Currently, a
participatory extension system is being exercised not only in the project area but also in Amhara
Regional State as a whole. The system is based on demonstrating and training of farmers in proven
technologies in a participatory manner. Farmers training centers (FTCs) has constructed for the
above-mentioned purposes and training materials with necessary furniture are full-fledged. New
agricultural technologies are being demonstrated to farmers in the FTC model sites.
Close follow up and seasonal supervision is highly essential to give the local farmers an equal
chance of technical support. The major supports provided by the development agents include:
Close follow up of the packages, crop production, and protection activities, livestock
production and health, soil, and water conservation activities, afforestation, and other
integrated food security Programme.
Controlling of inputs supply, and distributions
Technically training, and support in the preparation of compost.
Demonstration of new agricultural technologies, such as motor or water pumps, and pedal
pumps for irrigation, modern bee keeping using modern bee hives, etc.
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Forage development activities, and reporting of animal diseases to the veterinarian, and
other extension activities to the supervisors.
Improved seeds of crops, farm implements, and equipments before disseminated for farmers have to
be tested for its adaptability and acceptance on farmer’s field or farmers training center (FTC).
3.7.2. Agricultural Research

During the field survey it has not observed any adaptive research or demonstration trial sites in and
around the project area, though the project site is found under the working areas of Fogera ,Adet
and Gonder Agricultural Research centers . Diffusion levels of new technologies within the woreda
in general and the project area in particular are not at satisfactory levels. In general, there are no
strong Research-Extension-Farmer linkages in the area.
3.7.3. Credit Facility

Few credit supplier institutions are found in the project area: namely Tseday bank, Ambo meda
Farmers Cooperative etc. The supplied credits are used for inputs purchase .
3.8. Constraints and Opportunities of Agriculture and Irrigation Development

3.8.1. Agricultural Development Constraints
Agricultural development in general and crop production in particular usually exhibit several
constraints which mainly relate to climatic and edaphic factors, socio-economic conditions, bio-
physical situations, market access and availability, technological development, etc. Crop production
is an agricultural activity carried out in the external environment and easily exposed to
environmental hazards. The hazards hinder the full exploitation of available resources such as land,
water, and labour.
Of the various biophysical and socio-economic problems that affect crop production in the project
area in particular and within the region in general, are: poor management practice, crop pest
occurrence and insufficient controlling mechanisms, low level of agricultural inputs’ use by
farmers, lack of use of improved farm implements, poor cropping system, inadequate extension
service, Based on discussions made with the local farmers and DAs of Project kebele and visual
observations have made, during the field study period, the major constraints for the growths of crop
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production and productivity are categorized under three main groups and are listed in detail here
below:
3.8.1.1. Social constraints
Poor adaptation of soil fertility amendment practice

Poor adaptation of improved technology (i.e. improved seed)
Not leave crop residue on their farmland
Price increase of agricultural inputs on yearly basis refrain farmers from use of improved
seeds and artificial fertilizers. Unaffordable prices of inputs lead farmers to use local seeds
and low amount of artificial fertilizers and agro-chemicals, i.e., low rates per hectare basis.
Presence of many cultural holidays to conduct different crop farming activities.
3.8.1.2 Institutional constraints

Loose linkage among Research, Extension (Agricultural Development Offices) and Farmers.
Weaken contributions of farmers training center (FTC) to the local farmers based on the
target of its establishment.
Luck of NGOs existing in the project area to support the agricultural sector activities.
Lack of timely arrival, insufficient amount and required types of inputs by agricultural
inputs suppliers, especially for improved seeds and artificial fertilizers.
Lack of market-based value-chains especially for the harvest produces of irrigated crops.
3.8.1.3. Agronomic and environmental constraints

Insufficient crop protection measures/practices at field level and post-harvest stages.
Poor composting and low manure utilization practices of local farmers
Crop diseases, weeds and Insect pest problems (late blight of potatoes, chocolate spot of
fababean, yellow rust of wheat, Striga, Cuscuta, Stalk borer, Shoot fly, Red teff worm etc).
Uneven onset and offset and interruption in between of rainfall
Lack of good quality agro-chemicals and shortage of chemical sprayers supply.
35
In order to boost up the existing low level of crops productivity and production the above-
mentioned constraints have to be resolved step by step through provision of strong extension
services and close supervisions to the local farmers as well as input suppliers and finance
crediters.
3.8.2. Development Opportunities for Irrigated Agriculture
Assessing the available resources in the project area and estimating the gaps that require from
outside is an essential parameter to determine the success or failures of any project. Based on field
study and meteorological data analysis on potentials of the project area, the project area has better
rainfall for crop production; and farmers of the area have developing traditional experiences in
irrigation agriculture.
3.8.3. Development Strategy for Irrigated Agriculture
To achieve the goals of the project (i.e., to attain the food demand of the beneficiaries and produce
cash crops for domestic and export markets, to generate/improve household income) and based on
the existing production and market conditions, the project can combine/integrate the here below
mentioned alternative strategies to attain higher farm return.
a) Crop specialization
Crop specialization is one of the crop production improvement options focused on a single crop or a
group of crops. For this project it has focused on very few crops such as maize, wheat, millet faba
bean and teff, for the wet season; onion, potato, tomato, Garlic and wheat for dry seasons to attain
higher incomes.
b) Crop diversification
Different crop groups like cereals, pulse, horticultural crops, low land and mid high land fruit crops,
etc. could be selected. Hence, diversified crops have to be selected from the crop basket of the area
to grow for food and market purposes.
c) Domestic market-oriented
This project relies entirely on domestic markets mainly found in the vicinity of the project area
Ebinat and Addis Zemen.
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4.THE IRRIGATION PROJECT

4.1. Project Rationale and Objectives
Due to unreliable nature of rainfall (erratic and low amount), recurrent drought occurrences, etc,
farmers of the project area are suffering from low income, specifically shortage of food crops
supply, and poor standard of living. The importance of reversing the current situation is appreciated
by the concerned federal and regional governmental bodies and by farmers of the project area. Thus,
the development of Qeha River Diversion Irrigation Project is so vital with the integration of
improved agronomic practices.
The present irrigation project would contribute towards the supply of food crops and animal feed
production in the project area suffering from very low standard of livings. This can secure the use of
double cropping (harvesting twice in a year). As a result, food self-sufficiency could be assured and
household incomes would be improved.
Implementation of Qeha River Diversion Irrigation Project, therefore, aimed at increasing crop
yields through wider application of agricultural inputs and use of irrigation water from the Qeha
diversion weir on a net command area of 180 ha both in dry and wet seasons.
Establishment of modern irrigation scheme from Qeha River is expected to solve shortage of
rainfall and thereby enables double cropping so that increases crops production in the area. For this
irrigation scheme, the water harvesting structures proposed to be constructed are weir and earthen
canals to the command area.
The main objectives of Qeha River Diversion Irrigation Project are:

To increase crop yields through double cropping system and better use of agricultural inputs
in a sustainable farming system among the beneficiary households in the project area.
To bring about sustainable development of the farm families in the project area as a result
their farm incomes would be increased from food and cash crops.
To reduce the risk of crop production and productivity by minimizing moisture stress and
crop pests problem through the use of modern crop protection technique in the area of
irrigation.
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4.2. Selection of Crops

4.2.1. Crop basket determination
Before the start of the selection of potential crops for irrigated agriculture, a list of a range of crops
growing in the project area should be prepared. The crop basket not necessarily includes only the
list of crops currently grown in the project area rather based on the agro-climatic and soil conditions
all possible crops could be incorporated in the crop lists. Because there are potential and suitable
crops that might not currently found in the cropping patterns of the project area need to be
considered in new development intervention.
Table 15: The possible list of crops for irrigated agriculture
Crop group Types of crops
Cereal Sorghum, maize, barley, oats, millet, wheat, rice, etc.
Pulses Chickpea, faba bean,lentil, haricot bean, field pea, grass pea, etc.
Oil crops Nigerseed, Sunflower, Groundnut, Castor bean etc
Vegetables Shallot, Onion, Beetroot, cabbage, pepper, Potato, Carrot, Sweet potato, Tomato, etc.
Fruits Papaya, Avocado, Orange, Mango, Banana, Lemon etc
Spices and Fenugreek, Coriander, Hot pepper etc
condiments
4.2.2. Crops Selection Criteria

In the project area the smallholder farmers have two major objectives to carry out irrigation
agriculture on their plots of land; the primary objective is attaining the food demand of the family
members, while the second important objective is growing cash crops to generate household
income. Under small-scale irrigation the crops selection should take into account the optimum
utilization of water, land and labor to attain the objective of the project. Crop selection is a main and
determinant process to ensure the sustainable development of irrigation projects, because the overall
goals of the irrigation project are screwing to the improvement of crop outputs.
The criteria for selecting the potential crops should follow a multidimensional approach to cover
various issues. The criteria could categorize into agronomic, social, environmental, cultural, and
business sectors to simplify the determination of the selection criteria. Three major targets of the
criteria are increasing crop production, high-income generation, and restoration of soil fertility.
The criteria considered for the choice/selection of crops are:

38
Suitability to the given agro-ecology (soils, agro-climate)

Yield potential of the crop (high productivity)
Food and economic values,
Farmer's preference and experience in the production of the crop;
Marketability and potentiality for agro-processing Crop potential for irrigated agriculture, (
irrigation characteristics of the crop);
Length of growing period (LGP) of the crops (early maturing type).
Farmer's potential attitude to the introduction of new crops;
Potential of the irrigation water source,
High market value, and potential for the export market (marketability);
Potential for maintenance of soil fertility
Cropping intensity finally marketability and potentiality for agro-processing
Recurrent prevalence of pest infestation
Government policy, and development strategies
4.3. Crop Production Development Plan

4.3.1. Crop Choices/Selection
Based on these factors, suitable crops were selected for both wet and dry seasons. Farmers of the
area are well acquainted with most of these crops. The selected crops for Qeha irrigation Scheme, in
both dry and wet seasons, are presented in Table 16.
Table 16: Cropping system (Wet and dry seasons)

Crop Type Wet Season Dry Season
Cereals Maize, Teff, barley and Millet Wheat
Pulses Faba bean ……………..
Oil Crops …………… ……………..
Root Crops …………… Potato
Vegetables …………… Onion, garlic, tomato
Spices ……………
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4.3.2. Cropping Pattern and Crop Calendar

Cropping patterns are proposed based on crop mix and area coverage of individual crops. Crop
diversification has been taken as a basic criterion in establishing the crop mix and area coverage.
The introduction of various crops into the cropping pattern is assumed to widen the economic base
of the project and minimize the risks associated with the growing of a single or limited number of
crops. It is also very important to keep under continuous review the introduction of other crops both
for use in rotation as well as alternative crops under certain circumstances.
The cropping pattern, which shall be dominated by annual food crops, is assumed to cover an
annual cropping intensity of 200 % (i.e. wet season 100 % + dry season 100 %). Cereals (Maize,
Tef,barely,millet), pulse (Faba bean) will cover the major part of the area in the wet season. In the
dry season, vegetable (Garlic, Onion, Potato and tomato) and cereal(wheat) for dry season . The
percentage and area coverage of the crops to be grown annually, in wet and dry seasons, has shown
in Table 17. The planting dates have been set up based on agro-climatic conditions and local
experiences. The planting and harvesting dates are also presented in Table 17.
Table 17: Cropping patterns for the proposed project at Qeha command area
S/N Crop Area (ha) Coverage (% Planting date Harvesting date
I Wet 180 100
season
1.1 Maize 54 30 03-May 09-Oct
1.2 Teff 36 20 08-July 04-Nov
1.3 Fababean 18 10 29-May 15-Oct
1.4 Millet 36 20 01-June 23-Oct
1.5 Barely 36 20 28-May 04-Oct
II Dry season 180 100
2.1 Onion 54 30 26-Nov 25-Mar
2.2 Garlic 63 35 28-Nov 06-April
2.3 Potato 27 15 03-Dec 01-April
2.4 Tomato 27 15 28-Nov 12-Mar
2.5 Wheat 9.0 5 24-Nov 23-Mar
Total 360 200
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4.4. Crop Water Requirement (CWR)
The calculation of crop water requirement is a very important aspect of the planning of any
irrigation project and several methods and procedures are available for this. The Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has also made available several publications
on this subject and other issues related to this. The computer program available in FAO Irrigation
and Drainage Paper No. 56 “CROPWAT” has been used for the calculation of the Crop Water
requirement. This program is based on Penman-Monteith approach and procedures for calculation
of crop water requirements and irrigation requirements are mainly based on methodologies
presented in FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 24 “Crop Water Requirements” and No. 33
“Yield Response to Water”. As recommended in FAO Publications three steps (procedures) are
involved in the calculation of the crop water requirement.
4.4.1. Calculation of Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo)

The Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) represents the potential evaporation of a well-watered
grass crop. The water needs of other crops are directly linked to this climatic parameter. Although
several methods exist to determine ETo, the Modified Penman-Monteith Method has been
recommended as the appropriate method to determine ETo from climatic data (temperature,
humidity, sunshine, and wind speed).
4.4.1.1. Climate Data Collection

The methods of calculating evapotranspiration from meteorological data require various
climatological and physical parameters. The meteorological factors determining evapotranspiration
are weather parameters that provide energy for vaporization and removal of water vapor from the
evaporating surface. The evapotranspiration process is determined by the amount of energy
available to vaporize water. Solar radiation is the largest energy source and can change large
quantities of liquid water into water vapor. The principal weather parameters are rainfall,
temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and sunshine hour.
For the project, the FAO CROPWAT version 8.0 is used to estimate the evapotranspiration by using
data obtained from, Addis zemen meteorological station (rainfall, minimum, and maximum
temperature, RH, WR, and SS). The monthly ETO for the reference crop has been presented in
Annex 1.
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4.4.1.2.Climate Data Conversion

Climate data are, commonly, standardized by the National Meteorological Service Agencies.
However, some conversions are required to adjust the data into the format accepted by CROPWAT
8.0 software, i.e. conversion of all the climatic data to the units required for CROPWAT 8.0.
Particular attention should be given to the units in which the climatic records are given.
4.4.2. Selection of Values for Crop Coefficient (Kc)
The effect of the crop on its water requirement is represented by a crop coefficient (Kc). This is
presented by the relationship between reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) and crop
evapotranspiration ETC as ETc = Kc × ETo. The values for crop coefficients vary with the crop, its
stage of growth, growing season, and prevailing water condition. Hence, the second step is required
to select suitable values for the crop coefficient. Based on the recommendation of FAO Irrigation
and Drainage Paper No. 56 and No. 33 Yield Response to Water, crop coefficients (Kc values) and
other factors or aspects have been used for the selected crops in the calculation as presented in
Annex 3.
4.4.3. Effect of Agricultural Practice and Local Conditions

This requires evaluating the effect of climate and its variability over time and area. This also
requires to evaluate the effect of soil water availability and agricultural and irrigation practices.
4.4.3.1. Effective Rainfall (Peff)

The proportion of rainfall that can enter and support plant evapotranspiration is said to be effective
rainfall (Peff). Of the various methods used for CWR calculation, the USDA soil conservation
service method has been used to estimate the effective rainfall for this project, that is:
 Peff = (P* (125 - 0.2 * 3 * P))/125 ………………for P ≤ 250/3 mm

 Peff = 125/3 + 0.1 * P …………………………….for P > 250/3 mm
Where Peff = Effective rainfall,

P = Total rainfall
As the rainfall amount in the project area is medium, the effective rainfall has been accounted for
the present irrigation scheme crop water requirement’s calculation (See Annex 4). And hence,
Addis Zemen meteorological station rainfall data was directly used to calculate Irrigation Water
42
Requirements (IWR) for Qeha Diversion irrigation Project, and also rainfall data Addis Zemen
station was used for dependable rainfall computation.
4.4.3.2. Irrigation Efficiency

To complete the evaluation of the demand, the efficiency of the water distribution system and the
application must be known. The gross requirement of water for the irrigation system is very much
dependent on the overall efficiency of the irrigation system, which in turn is dependent on several
factors: Method of irrigation, type of canal (Lined and/or Unlined), method of operations
(simultaneously and continuous or rotational water supply), and availability of structures (for
controlling and distribution and measuring and monitoring).
Based on these factors, the project has planned to impose a surface irrigation method (using
furrows). The canal system is lined. Hence, the distribution efficiency 85 %, and field application
efficiency 60 %. As a result of these the overall irrigation efficiency has estimated to be about 0.51
%. According to the soil Lab result, soils of the command area are predominantly characterized as
clay textured soil.
The three steps as enumerated above will be able to give the crop water requirement during its
cropping period. The losses in the irrigation system have to be incorporated to arrive at the water
requirement at the head of the irrigation system.
4.4.4. Crop Water Requirements Calculated for the Project

The crop water requirement for Qeha command area has been calculated and presented in the
annexes for the wet season as supplementary irrigation and dry season as a full irrigation system. In
general, the NIWR for the proposed crops is presented in Annex 4 (4.1- 4.10).
4.4.4.1. Irrigation Duty

Irrigation duty is the volume of water required per hectare for the full flange of the crops. Moreover,
it helps in designing an efficient irrigation canal system. The area, which will be irrigated, can be
calculated by knowing the total available water at the source and the overall duty for all crops
required to be irrigated in different seasons of the years.
The proposed cropping pattern of Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project has shown maximum net
irrigation water requirement (NIWR) for overall proposed crops is in February with the amount of
5.5 mm/day for 18 working or irrigation hours. Even though, the area had better trained in crop
43
production in irrigation. However, the farmer irrigation discipline or know-how can be improved
with strong agricultural extension services, training, demonstrations, and experience exchange
tours.so that, if do this, the beneficiary farmers can irrigate up to 20 hour irrigation hours per day.
For Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project, it has been estimated to adopt 60% field application
efficiency (ea) and conveyance efficiency has estimated to be 85%. The soil is dominantly clay
textured soils and the canal systems are estimated to be lined. Irrigation water management
practices in the study area are traditional and are based on farmers ‘local knowledge, this is due to
little experience in irrigation. Therefore, to improve field application efficiency or overall project
efficiency providing training for farmers on different techniques of irrigation management practices
is essential. Once the conveyance and field application efficiencies are determined or estimated, the
scheme irrigation efficiency (e) for the selected surface irrigation method can be calculated using
the following formula:
e = ec * ea = 85*60 = 51% for
100
Where, e = Scheme irrigation efficiency (%)
ec = Conveyance efficiency (%)
ea = Field application efficiency (%)
For the designing of the project, the GIWR is given as follows:
GIWR = NIWR/e = 5.5/0.51 = 10.78 [mm/day] for full irrigation
The GIWR (10.78 mm/day) represents the daily quantity of water that is required to be applied.
This water quantity is also used for the determination of the canal discharge in consideration of the
time of flow and is defined as the duty, expressed as l/s/ha.
The duty is calculated by:
Duty (D) = GIWR × 1000 × 10 / (t × 60×60)
Where; Duty – the duty [l/s/ha]
GIWR – Gross Irrigation Requirement [mm/day]
t – Daily irrigation or flow hours [hrs.]

44
The duty for the GIWR of 10.78 mm/day 18 hours of daily irrigation time (t = 18), is supported to
be used with furrow irrigation method. Hence, Duty for 18 working hours, as the site is nearer to
farmers’ village and local farmers have experiences in irrigation, is computed as follows:
 D = (10.78x 10 x 1000) / (18 x 60*60) = 1.6 l/s/h (for full irrigation)
 D= (5.49x10x1000)/(16x3600)=0.95l/s/ha(for supplementary irrigation)
Whereas, the duty (d) for 24 irrigation hours in dry season (full irrigation) is (10.78x10x1000)/
(24x3600) = 1.24 l/s/ha
4.5. Irrigation Water Management

4.5.1. Irrigation Methods and Systems
Among the different irrigation systems surface irrigation system will be used for the project area;
and the irrigation water will be obtained from Qeha River and carrying the water open canals at
initial, secondary and tertiary canals and then leading to field canals and finally turning to the
irrigation furrows.
Care should be taken when choosing the irrigation method which is best suited to the local
circumstances, i.e., depending on slopes, soil types, selected crops type, amount of water available,
etc. of the command area. Based on the above factors, among the various irrigation methods
surface irrigation method is proposed for the proposed crops in this project. Surface irrigation can
furrow border and basin irrigation methods. However, each method has its own advantages and
disadvantages.
Furrow irrigation method is best suited for most of the proposed and row planted crops. In general,
furrow irrigation method is simple, manageable and widely practiced irrigation method. This
method is suitable for row crops that cannot stand in water for long periods. The only thing required
to use this method is row planting of crops. Besides, basin and border irrigation method would be
used for the non-row planted crops. Rotational flow water distribution is also recommended for the
project area.
4.5.2. Irrigation Schedule (IS)

Irrigation scheduling is one of the managerial activities that aim at effective and efficient utilization
of water is expressed in terms of frequency rate and duration of how water is delivered to a farm
45
unit. The number and timing of irrigation vary widely for different crops. It is the function of crops,
soil, and climate. In this project study, it has tried to determine the irrigation intervals of the
proposed dry season crops . The 18 hours’ irrigation schedules (irrigation depth, intervals, etc) for
the proposed crops are presented in Annex 5 and Table 18.
I = (P.Sa) D
ETc
Where; I = Irrigation interval (days)
Sa= readily available soil water (mm/m)
ETc = Crop evapotranspiration (mm/day)
D = Rooting depth (m) of plants/crops
P = depletion fraction of available water
In general, the field irrigation scheduling is based on the field water balance and is expressed in
depth (d, mm) and interval of irrigation (I) and has presented in table 18.
Table 18: Irrigation intervals for the dry season proposed crops of Qeha irrigation project
Crop Sa P D (m) PSaD, ETc(mm/day) I(day)=
(mm/M) (mm/m) (P*Sa*D)/ETc
Garlic 200 0.3 0.3 18 5.8 3
Onion 200 0.3 0.3 18 5.83 3
Potato 200 0.35 0.4 28 5.98 5
Tomato 200 0.4 0.7 56 5.98 9
Wheat 200 0.55 1 110 6.02 18
4.5.3. Irrigation application depth and crop critical stages

The application depth of water and the length of application are directly related. Therefore, the
supply requirements at the field level are determined by the depth and interval of irrigation. These
data can be obtained from the soil-water balance and are primarily determined by:
The total available soil water (Sa) in mm/m

The fraction of available soil water (P) permitting unrestricted evapotranspiration and/or
optimal crop growth , and
The rooting depth (D).
46
The following formula is used to determine the irrigation depth of the proposed crops in the
irrigation scheme including application losses.
(𝑃 ∗ 𝑆𝑎) ∗ 𝐷
d=
𝐸𝑎
Where; d = Depth of irrigation application
Sa = Total available soil moisture (water) mm/m soil depth.
P = Fraction of available water
(P x Sa) = Readily available soil water (mm/m)
D = Rooting depth (m)
Ea = Application efficiency.
Although the P and D will vary over the crops growing seasons, using the above formula, the
maximum irrigation application depth can be calculated for the proposed crops by considering the
crops maximum root growth stage and by taking the command total available soil moisture content
(Sa) as 200 mm/m. Field application efficiencies (ea) has already estimated to be taken as 0.60% for
the clay textured soil. Hence, the maximum depth of irrigation application (d) for the different
proposed crops in the command has presented in Table 19
Table 19: Maximum depth of irrigation application at Qeha weir irrigation project for dry season
Crop Sa (mm/M) P D (m) PSaD, Ea D
(mm/m)
Garlic 200 0.3 0.3 18 0.6 30
Onion 200 0.3 0.3 18 0.6 30
Potato 200 0.35 0.4 28 0.6 47
Tomato 200 0.4 0.7 56 0.6 93
Wheat 200 0.55 1 110 0.6 183
Note: The depth of irrigation was determined for clay textured soil (Sa =200 mm/m).
47
Critical stages of crops are crop stages at which moisture stress adversely affects the growth,
flowering, seed formation and development, and ultimately the yield. At these stages care has to be
taken with the intention that crops are adequately irrigated. Hence, the proposed crops critical stages
has presented in Table 20:
Table 20: The most critical moisture sensitive crops growth stages for proposed crops
Crop Growth stages
Wet Season
Maize During the flowering period including tasselling and silking and pollination
Teff Boot to heading stage
Barely Flowering, panicle initiation, grain formation, tillering
Millet Flowering, panicle initiation, grain formation, tillering
Fababean Throughout but particularly during flowering and pod-setting/filling
Dry season
Garlic Late vegetative stage, bulb enlargement
Onion Throughout but particularly during bulb formation and enlargement
Potato Period of stolonization and tuber initiation > yield formation > early vegetative
Tomato When flowers are formed, and fruits are rapidly enlarging
Wheat Flowering, panicle initiation, grain formation, tillering
4.6 Organizational Aspects of Irrigation Schemes

Administrative and technical problems cause great failure of crops yield and irrigation extension, in
irrigated agriculture, unless they are solved as quickly as possible. Thus, water users association has
to be established; and due attentions should have to be given by the Woreda administrative councils
and development sectors in solving both social and technical problems.
The project beneficiaries, who organize under the water users association, would have the following
advantages:
The association controls the whole irrigation structures, irrigation water distribution and
management operation.
48
Damaged irrigation structures could be maintained easily and sooner after close supervisions
are made by the members of the association and irrigation water managing bodies of the
project.
Problems of local administration will be solved.
The organization could construct common storage facilities so that they could store their
surplus and low costly productions and sells when the price rises up.
When the association get the by-Laws can take credits of agricultural inputs, farm tools and
equipment’s for its members.
Therefore, the Woreda’ agricultural development offices and the Woreda’ cooperative promotion
agencies should have to take the lion share to carry out the organization of the water users
association and its structural set up.
4.7. Crop Yield Estimate and Projection

4.7.1. Crop Yield Estimation
Estimates of with-project crop yields consider the existing yields which are attained with presently
available technology. Projected yields are targeting crop productivity under improved agricultural
practice. The number of production years that are required to attain the planned optimum yields
depends on suitability of the area, level of farmers’ exposure to given technologies and efficiency of
supporting institutions.
The following assumptions are made to estimate achievable yield and yield projection: appropriate
input supply system, proper irrigation application, appropriate farm management, and provision of
consistent agricultural support by competent institutions. Based on the research findings on farmers’
fields and farmers’ experience the following crop yields are used to compute the expected crop
production.
Yield projections are normally required in order to determine the feasibility of the irrigation project.
Yield projections are usually made for the first five years of the project over which time the
exploitable genetic potential of the different crops is captured. Then the yields stabilize at the same
rate for following years provided all other conditions, such as proper use of inputs, viability of the
seeds, efficient use of water and good management practices are maintained. Such projections are
made for smallholders as it has illustrated in Table 21.
49
For the estimation of yield build-up/projection, it is expected that the with-project yields will be
improved due to the following favorable conditions:
Access to full irrigation in the dry season and supplementary irrigation as required during the
wet season;
Improve farm management system starting from land & crop selection to harvesting & post
harvesting.
Reduced flooding and water logging due to drainage works;
Farmers acquiring necessary agricultural skills and knowledge due to the provision of
trainings and strong agricultural extension services;
Improved access to improved seed varieties and other farm inputs, including fertilizer and
agro-chemicals;
By doing all agricultural practices on time,
Improved access to improved equipment, credit services;
Reduced crop losses due to better control of insect pests, diseases and weeds;
Present average yields obtained by farmers and research institutes.
Nonetheless, the yield projections (see Table 21) are rough estimates and can be treated with same
degrees of flexibility until determined by trials.
50
Table 21: Yield estimation and projection for smallholder farmers' crops, qt/ha.
S/n Crop Without project With project
Types Current local ANRS, Future Projected Yields (qt/ha)
average CSA data,
yield 2021/22
estimate
Wet Year 0 Year 1 Year2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
I
season
1.1 Maize 42.0 38.58 42 52 62 65 67
1.2 Teff 18.0 18.61 18 25 29 30 31
1.3 Barely 27.0 26.62 27 36 48 52 53
1.4 Millet 30 24.18 30 36 41 44 45
1.5 Fababea 33 18.24 33 37 38 40 41
n
II Dry
season
2.1 Onion 120 Na 120 145 164 180 185
2.2 Garlic 95 80.11 95 120 138 146 150
2.3 Potato 130 149.18 130 165 186 196 205
2.4 Tomato 156 Na 156 169 185 190 195
2.5 Wheat 22 28.10 22 34 40 45 47
Na=data not available
Present study estimate of rain-fed & irrigated yields based on Kebele survey data, regional
data and agronomic assessment & research center result.
CSA database (ANRS, 2021/22).
Future yield development rate based on management system (rain-fed with supplementary
and irrigated).
4.7.2. Production Projection
Taking into account the above yield estimates and the proposed cropping patterns for smallholder
farmers, crop production is estimated for both the wet and dry cropping seasons. It is assumed that
farmers will use inputs properly and they will receive appropriate technical supports. The crop
production estimates at full development stage of the project has presented in Table 22.
51
Table 22: Estimated with-project of smallholder farmers' crops production

Wet Season Dry Season
Crops Area, ha Productivity, Seasonal Crops Area, Productivity, Seasonal
(qt/ha) producti ha (qt/ha) production
on
1 Maize 54 67 3618 Garlic 63 150 9450
2 Teff 36 31 1116 Onion 54 185 9990
3 Barely 36 53 1908 Potato 27 205 5535
4 Millet 36 45 1620 Tomato 27 195 5265
5 Fababean 18 41 738 Wheat 9.0 47 423
Total 180 237 9000 180 782 30663
Source: Consultant’s estimates
4.8. Supporting Interventions
4.8.1. Extension
The success of any project will be measured by the ability to meet designed objectives and targets.
Extension support has mainly designed to achieve the following:
Increasing the agricultural returns, there by improve living standard and alleviate poverty.
Improving the farmers’ capacity to develop agricultural production so that schemes achieve
its economic potential.
The achievement of successful schemes and viable project therefore obtained with strong endeavor
of the beneficiaries and should not end on completion of the infrastructure. For the farmers to be
able to increase the total value of their input, they need not only regular access to markets, credit
and on farm inputs but also exposure to technological improvements and an opportunity to learn
new skills. It is necessary to ensure that, the level of extension, remains high enough especially
during the first three to five years of cropping as this is the time when farmers will need to adopt
changes in the cropping pattern, increasing intensity and agricultural practices that can be expected
from introduction of development projects. Therefore, it is important to note that, the extension
services are in place and prepared prior to the onset of the project.
4.8.1.1. Extension delivery alternatives

Extension services can be delivered in one or more of the following alternatives as appropriate.
52
A) Diagnostic visits
Regular visits by extension agents will be carried out frequently on a predetermined date agreed
with the communities. The purpose of the visit is to diagnose or identify current problems. If the
DAs are unable to solve the problem, they will consult at the kebele’s agriculture office level. For
example, if problems raise about pests, and diseases attack, and where the diagnosis is uncertain
research staff, and university academicians can be requested for assistance.
B) On-farm practical, and demonstration plots

As the name implies, the purpose of these plots is to practice farmers on the skills relevant to a
particular crop or farm practice and observe the results. Before setting up the demonstration plot,
the plan would be drawn up, which describes the plot objective, a sketch, and detailed activities to
be carried out. Results will be recorded, and cost benefits calculated. Tasks on the plots will be
demonstrated where possible with farmers' practice. The observable and quantifiable results will
make available to other farmers physically, and in photographs.
C) Demonstration /Pilot trials site

Any agricultural production problems, and/or new technologies, etc. anticipated in the study should
be tested and resolved before the operation of the project. Therefore, it is highly advisable to
establish at least 2.5 ha multipurpose demonstration sites for farmers training on how to practice
newly introduced technologies. Fogera National research center, Adet Regional agricultural
research center, Gonder Regional Agricultural research center and ARARI (Amhara Regional
Agricultural Research Institute) through its closest research station has the responsibility of
integrating the pilot issues into the existing research program.
D) Field days
Field days will be needed when scheme awareness is required of a particular topic or theme, and
will generally be focused around demonstration plots, and farmers. The activity may range from
modest demonstrations with short technical talks to a campaign with several presenters, audiovisual
aids, and displays. In certain cases, the event will permit the inclusion of some social activities
which will usually encourage attendance, and help foster community spirit. It is also encouraging to
prepare an award for merit jobs.
53
E) Farmers meeting
Meeting and making open discussion on different development agendas are a traditional way of
disseminating extension messages. Information is often exchanged among beneficiaries. Farmers
are usually enthusiastic to get the best way they can. This is not appropriate early, where new
practices are being introduced. The meetings will play an important role as the discussion forum
focused on opinions, and consensus, on programs, and plans, marketing, credit, and repayment,
farm inputs, and provision of services.
F) Farmers group visits and farm transect walks

Visits could be arranged when it is of particular advantage for farmers to, see and discuss the
activities with others or of particular benefit to visit farms, research, and field stations.
G) Audiocassette, tapes, and radios

A recorded newsletter, case histories, interviews made available for circulation to the irrigation
schemes, and beneficiaries. It is intended that the content should include a mix of technical subjects,
timely reminders, women features, music and other agricultural, and socio-economic affairs.
H) Study tours
Regional and national study tours can be arranged for a group of farmers to enable them to learn
new technologies. A study tour has to be arranged to visit areas where there is a good irrigation
management practice and other improved farming practices. If conditions are allowable, an
International study tour can also be arranged in advanced countries.
I) Notice board
Notice board or sheltered glassed wall, at a conventionally central location where members
regularly pass, can be used to display items of general information and be kept updated with
seasonal topics. It can be in written form, photographs, cartoons, talks, questions, folk talks, poems,
etc. as appropriate.
J) Schools, and youth students

Liaison activities with schools should be encouraging, as farmers’ sons and daughters are the major
sources of disseminating the information, and skills to their parents. This can be including the
practice as inputs into the classroom subject or facilitate to involve as a school project.
54
4.8.1.2. Training and experience sharing

Experts, a head person of kebele agriculture office, DAs, and beneficiaries need short-term training,
and experience sharing to develop their technical capacity on crop management. The training will
be aimed at ensuring that all staffs are capable of carrying out their duties in a manner that will meet
the objectives of the agricultural extension sector. The major functions of extension staff are the
dissemination of information, advice, training, and evaluation, and monitoring of its effect. To do
this effectively they will have to know or acquire.
The technical knowledge, and skills that have to be transferred to farmers

The skills that are necessary to be able to transfer this knowledge, and its associated practice
An understanding of the working procedures, and the organizational skills, necessary to
perform their duties effectively, and correctly.
Regular skill upgrading program should be devised accordingly at each hierarchy Farm Tools, and
Equipment’s, farm machinery, which are suitable to the area, and level of technology, have to be
provided through appropriate credits.
4.9. Agricultural Input Requirements

4.9.1. Seed Requirements
Smallholder farmers are intended to utilize high yielding crop varieties under irrigated agriculture.
Crop varieties, which are released from agricultural research centres or private seed
growers/companies and are also tested in similar agro-ecologies, are essential agricultural inputs.
shortages of certified crop seeds are identified as one of the major bottlenecks facing farming
communities in the project area and even elsewhere in the country (such as lack of improved maize,
tef). Improved seeds of high yielding and reliable crop varieties are essential inputs of smallholder
farmers of the present irrigation project. Hence, the estimate of improved seeds requirement has
given in Table 23.
55
Table 23: List of improved and recommended crop varieties

Crop types Improved crop verities Seed rate (kg/ha) Requirement (qt.)
Wet Season
Maize BH 540,Limu 25 1350
Teff Quncho (Dz-Cr-387), Etsub 10 360
Millet Degu,Necho 15 540
Barely HB-42,HB1307 125 4500
Fababean Degaga,Messay,Gebelcho 270 4860
Wet Season
Garlic Kuriftu,Qoricho,Tseday 92 1200 75600
Onion Adama red,Bombie red 4.0 216
Potato Belete,Tolcha,Jalenie,Gudenie 2000 54000
Tomato Glilea.Eden 0.15 4.05
Wheat Kekeba,Dandaa,Digalu 175 1575
4.9.2. Fertilizer Requirements

Fertilizer is an important input to ensure high production and productivity under improved irrigation
agriculture. However, soil analysis should be the basis of this decision. Based on the proposed
cropping patterns and research literature showed fertilizer recommendations, for selected crops, the
following types and rates of fertilizers are recommended per hectare bases, including the total
requirements, has presented in Table 24.
56
Table 24: Fertilizer requirements for proposed crops

Crop NPSb(qt/ha) Sub total(qt.) Urea(Kg/ha) Sub total(qt.)
Area(ha)
Wet season 180 6 234 575 23850
Teff 36 1 36 100 3600

Fababean 18 1 18 25 450
Millet 36 1 36 100 3600
Barely 36 1 36 150 5400
Maize 54 2 108 200 10800
Dry season 180 9 351 650 22950
Garlic 63 2 126 150 9450
Onion 54 2 108 100 5400
Potato 27 2 54 150 4050
Tomato 27 2 54 100 2700
Wheat 9.0 1 9 150 1350
Total 360 15 585 1225 46800
4.9.3. Agro-Chemicals Requirements

In this day, in most farming systems, natural mechanisms of regulating the population of crop pests
and other organisms have been disturbed or partially replaced by artificial mechanisms such as
chemicals and drugs. Under such unnatural conditions, if not using chemicals it will lead to
considerable production losses. Hence, instead of direct use of chemicals, other alternative pest
control measures are growing, such as the application of integrated pest management (IPM) method.
Generally, chemical pest control measures are recommended only if all the mechanical, biological,
and physical measures are ineffective to bring the losses caused by the pest below the economic
injury level.
The estimate of the seasonal and annual requirement of pesticides/agrochemicals has presented in
Table 25. The approach for estimation of agro-chemicals here is by considering the area likely
requiring treatment each year. Nonetheless, herbicide chemicals are not recommended to be used in
57
this project to consider the protection of environmental pollution and the availability of labour
power in the area.
Table 25 Input requirements and planting methods for proposed crops

Crop Area (ha) Rate of application pestcide Pesticides required
(L/ha) (kg/ha.) (L/ha) (kg/ha.)
Wet season 180 8 3.5 306 135
Maize 54 2 1 108 54
Teff 36 2 1 72 36
Millet 36 1 0.5 36 18
Barely 36 2 0.5 72 18
Fababean 18 1 0.5 18 9
Dry season 180 10 6.5 360 261
Garlic 63 2 1.5 126 94.5
Onion 54 2 1.5 108 81
Potato 27 2 1.5 54 40.5
Tomato 27 2 1.5 54 40.5
Wheat 9 2 0.5 18 4.5
Annual Total 360 18 10 666 396
4.9.4. Labor and Draft Power

The labour and oxen power requirement of the proposed crops to be grown in the project area are
presented in Table 26.
Table 26: Man-days and oxen-days required for the proposed crops per hectare basis
Crop Man-days(MD) Oxen days(OD)
Wet season
Maize 86 26
Teff 88 28
Millet 72 30
Barely 68 40
Fababean 64 24
Dry Season
Garlic 144 40
Onion 144 40
Potato 134 36
Tomato 130 34
Wheat 68 38
58
4.10. Agronomic Practices and Crop Requirements for Selected Crops Grown Under
Irrigation
1. Teff ( Eragrostis teff)
Teff is cultivated between 1400 - 2700 masl, and where daily temperature average ranges
from 10- 270c. It requires an annual rainfall of 750 – 850 mm. Clay and clay loam soils are
very suitable for the crop.
Field preparation: depending on soil conditions, three to five plowings are recommended to
ensure the absence of cloudiness, weed control, good, and uniform stand of the crop.
Ploughing frequency: on average is 4 times.
Time of planting, and seed rate: Teff is planted from the end of June up to the first week of
July on the red soils, and from mid-July to the second week of August on black soils. Seeds
are broadcasted at the rate of 25-30 kg/ha.
Sowing method: row planting using row planter/manually or broadcasting after stepping
with animals’ hoofs or pulling/rolling trunks on the field for leveling is recommended.
Fertilizer: the rate of fertilizer application is 100 kg NPSB & 100kg urea, and 100kg DAP
&50 kg urea per hectare on black clay soils, and red soils, respectively.
Weed control: at least two hand weeding, the first 25-30 days after planting, and the second
50-55 days after planting are required. Herbicides, such as 2-4D, at the rate of 1 lt/ha for
broad-leaved weeds
Insect pests:
Red teff worm: spray cypermetrine 25% EC 1lt/ha
 Recommended varieties: Quncho,Estub
2. Maize(Zea mays)
Maize is Grows well between altitude ranges of 1000-2600 m.a.s.l and where daily temperature
average ranges from 24- 30 0c. It grows well on most soils, but it does better on medium
textured and well drained soils. It is sensitive to water logging conditions.
Grows well b/n 1,800 to 2,500m.a.s.l.

Ploughing frequency: on average 3-4 to ensure fine, and weed free seedbed.
Seed Rate: 25-30kg/ha.
Sowing method: row planting
59
Spacing: 75cm b/n rows, and 25cm b/n plants.
Fertilizer application:
 NPSB 200 kg/ha all at time of sowing
 Urea 200 kg/ha (Urea should be applied in split applications).
Weed Control: at least one hoeing and one hand weeding are recommended
 1st at 4 leaf stage: hoeing or inter row cultivation
 2nd at knee height stage: hand-weeding
 3rd weeding: up to the flowering stage
3. Bread wheat(Triticum aestivum)

● Altitude: Wheat crop is grown at 1500-3200 meters above sea level. However, it is more
suitable at 1800-2800 meters above sea level and average temperature of 15-25o is required.
● Rainfall: 500-1200 mm of rain is enough during the growing season, and it gives good
yield in areas with 800-1000 m/m of annual rain.
● It grows in all soil type but more preferable clay, red & blue loam soil, soil PH ranges from
5.5-7.5 is suitable.
● Plowing frequency: 3-5 times of plowing frequency on average is enough.

● Planting method row planting, recommended spacing for row planting: 20cm b/n rows.
● Seed rate: if row planting use 100 kg seed amount but if sowing method is broadcast 175
kg/ha.
● Varieties like: Kekeba,Dendaa... etc
❖ Fertilizer application:
● NPSB 100 kg/ha all at time of sowing.
● Urea 150kg/ha (half at time of sowing and half when the plant reach at knee height
❖ Crop protection: generally using integrated pest management technics is the best option (like
use of cultural, physical, biological, control, and chemical use).
❖ Weeding: needs two weeding
● 1st weeding 20-25 days after sowing
● 2nd weeding 45-55 days after sowing
● Herbicide like pallas 0.45 l/ha, 2,4-D 1 l/ha
❖ Wheat disses: Aphides
60
Chemical: Diamatote 40% Ec 2l/ha ,Diazinone 60% Ec 1 l/ha etc

4. Food Barely(Hordeum Vulgare)
Ploughing frequency: 3 times (average)
Sowing method: broad casting or row planting.
Recommended spacing for row planting b/n rows is 20-25 cm.
See rate: 125 kg/ha for BC or 85kg/ha for row planting.
Planting depth: 3-4 cm
● DAP 100 kg/ha all at time of sowing
● Urea 100 kg/ha (half at time of sowing and half when the plant reach at ankle height
Weeding: needs two weeding
● 1st weeding 25-35 days after sowing
● 2nd weeding 55-60 days after sowing
5.Fababean (Vicia faba L.)

Grows well between altitude ranges of 1500-2600m.a.s.l.
Plowing frequency: on average 2 times
Sowing method: row planting/seed drilling
Recommended spacing for row planting: 20cm b/n rows × 5-8cm b/n plants
Seed rate: 270 kg/ha
DAP: 100 kg/ha and all apply at time of sowing & 25 kg/ha urea use as starter.
Weeding: needs two hand weeding
✔ 1st weeding 25-30 days after sowing
✔ 2nd weeding 55-60 days after sowing
Disease: fuba bean affected by fungal diseases, to control use fungicide chemical, like;
mancozeb or redomil.
Insect pests like ball worm other affect the crop, use insecticides before damage the crop by
pest; like malatine 50% or other chemical.
Finally harvest on time and keep the yield from storage pest.
6. Tomato
61
Tomato grows well at elevations of up to 2000 m.a.s.l. It can be grown on a wide range of
soils but slightly acid conditions with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8 are considered very suitable. Day
temperatures within the range of 21-27oC and night temperatures between 16 and 20oC are
necessary for optimum growth and fruit production. High temperatures and low relative
humidity affect fruit set. Excessive rainfall and high relative humidity are harmful to tomato
production.
Field Preparation: Seeds are generally sown in nursery beds and transplanted to well
prepare fields when seedlings reach about 8-10cm height. Plants may be established in
single rows of 70-90cm apart, 30cm between plants or in double rows 45-60cm apart, 45cm
between plants in the row, and 75-90cm between the double rows.
Seed Rate: The seed requirement is 0.15kg/ha
Fertilizer: The crop demands higher fertilizer application and about 200kg NPSB and 100
kg Urea/ha is the normal recommendation.
Weed Control: Two hand-weeding throughout the growing period of tomato control most of
the weed infestation.
Diseases: Early and late blights, septoria leaf spot, wilt, and fruit rot are important diseases
of tomato. The use of resistant varieties, crop sanitation, and crop rotation are the principal
control measures of these diseases.
Insect Pests: Insects like whiteflies, bollworms, flea beetle, and cutworms attack tomatoes.
Very selective application of insecticides based on established thresholds is recommended.
Irrigation: Tomato has a high water requirement throughout the growing period until
fruiting occurs. The water requirement is between 400-600mm depending on the climate.
7.Potato (Solanum tuberosum)
Best suited altitude range from 1500-2800 masl.
Optimum soil temperature for normal tuber growth is from 15 to 18 oc.
Sensitive to frost; night temp. < 15 oC required for good tuber initiation
Soil potato requires a well-drained, aerated & porous loam or loamy sand soils with PH
values of 4.5-7.5. Not recommended heavy clays & waterlogged soils.
Rainfall: for high yields, the total crop water requirements for a 120 to 150 days crop are
about 500 to 700 mm, depending on the climate of the area.
62
Plowing frequency: 4 times (average)

Sowing /planting /method: row planting
▪ Recommended spacing: 75cm b/n rows and 30cm b/n plants
Seed rate: 15- 20 qt/ha
Varieties : Tolcha, jalenie,Belete,Gudene
Fertilizer application: 200 kg/ha NPSB and 150 kg /ha urea, apply all the recommended
NPSB fertilizer at time of sowing & apply the first half urea during transplanting & apply
the rest urea when at firs cultivation & earthen up (after 30-40 days after transplanting).
Crop protection:
Weeding: at least 4 times hoeing /earthling-up and/or hand weeding.
Generally, potato requires continuous cultivation and earthling up; however at least 3
weeding and/or hoeing is required.
Make appropriate drainage system to remove excess water, unless it is exposed to
fungal disease (root rot).
Disease control: potato is susceptible to a wide range of disease, of which potato late
blight are series problems. Use of disease free planting material, crop rotation, 3kg/ha
of mancozeb or redomyl m.z 63.5 % w.p 2 kg/ha.
8. Onion(Allium cepa L.)
In Ethiopia onion grows between 500 and 2400 meter above sea level (masl) albeit the best
growing altitude is between 700 and 1800 m.a.s.l.
Onion can be grown on different soil types but well- drained medium textured soils rich in
organic matter content are more preferred. Optimum pH is in the range of 6 to 7. The crop is
sensitive to soil salinity and yield decrease varies at different levels of salinity /Ece/. In
particular, young seedlings are susceptible to salt injury so direct seeding on saline soils
should be avoided. Heavy black soil is not suitable for onion bulb development.
The crop has shallow root system and needs frequent irrigation after short interval. Irrigation
should be provided at regular intervals for good crop yield. Critical periods for irrigation are
during stand establishment and the period of bulb development through maturity.
Grows well b/n altitude ranges of 1800-2500m.a.s.l.
Ploughing frequency: 4-5 times
63
Sowing method: row planting, seeds are sown in seedbeds and transplanted to well-prepared
fields after 45-55 days when seedlings are at 13 - 15cm height.
Spacing: 40cm width b/n beds × 20cm b/n rows × 10cm b/n plants
Seed rate: 3 – 4 kg/ha
● DAP 200 kg/ha all at time of sowing
● Urea 150 kg/ha (half applied at the time of transplanting and half after one and half
months of transplanting)
Weed control: needs three weeding/hoeing
● 1st weeding & hoeing: 20-25 days after transplanting
● 2nd weeding & hoeing: 50-60 days after transplanting
❖ Disease control: potato is susceptible to a wide range of disease, of which onion root and
bulb rot are series problems. Use disease free or clean seeds, crop rotation, use of disease
tolerant verities, field sanitation and seed treatment with Apronstar 42ws at the rate of
250-300 gram for 100kg of seed.
9. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Suitable altitude 1900-3350
Plowing frequency: 4 times (average)
Sowing method: row planting, recommended spacing: 30cm b/n furrow and 10 cm b/n
plants
Seed rate: 8-12 qt/ha
Recommended Varieties: bishoftu nech, tsedey 92
Fertilizer Application:
● 200 kg/ha NPSB or other blended fertilizer and all apply at planting time and 100 kg/ha
Weeding: at least 4 times hoeing and/or hand weeding is recommended
4.11.Crop Budget and Expected Gross Return of the Project
4.11.1.Without and with Project Crop Budget
Taking existing farm gate, and improved input price from local information, the total cost of the
project and its gross return is estimated (Table 27 and Table 28). The estimation considers only
agronomic cost and return.
64
Table 27: Crop budget for proposed project per hectare basis
Description
Wet season Dry season
Teff Maize Barely Millet Fababean Garlic Onion Potato Tomato Wheat Total
Labour (MD) 88 86 68 88 64 144 144 134 130 68
Unit cost (birr) 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200
T otal cost (birr) 17600 17200 13600 17600 12800 28800 28800 26800 26000 13600 202800
Oxen power 28 26 40 30 24 40 40 36 34 38
Unit cost (birr) 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400
T otal cost (birr) 11200 10400 16000 12000 9600 16000 16000 14400 13600 15200 134400
Fertilizer (qt)
NPSB 100 200 100 100 100 200 2000 200 200 100
Unit cost (birr) 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980 3980
T otal cost (birr) 398000 796000 398000 398000 398000 796000 7960000 796000 796000 398000 13134000
Urea 100 200 100 150 200 150 100 100 100 150
Unit cost (birr) 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950 3950
T otal cost (birr) 395000 790000 395000 592500 790000 592500 395000 395000 395000 592500 5332500
Bio Fertlizer 0 0 0 0 500 0 0 0 0 0
Unit cost (birr) 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50
T otal cost (birr) 0 0 0 0 25000 0 0 0 0 0 25000
Seed (kg) 10 25 125 15 270 1200 4 2000 0.15 175
Unit cost (birr/kg) 50 25 35 35 75 80 25 15 20 38
T otal cost (birr) 500 625 4375 525 20250 96000 100 30000 3 6650 159028
Pesticides(lt/kg) 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2
Unit cost (birr) 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800
T otal cost (birr) 1600 1600 1600 800 800 1600 1600 1600 1600 1600 14400
Grand total cost
(birr/ha)
823900 1615825 828575 1021425 1256450 1530900 8401500 1263800 1232203 1027550
T otal area (ha) 36 54 36 36 18 63 54 27 27 9
Annual cost (birr) 29660400 87254550 29828700 36771300 22616100 96446700 453681000 34122600 33269481 9247950 832898781
65
Table 28: Gross return of the proposed project
Crop Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

Description
Type
Yield (qt/ha) 42 52 62 65 67
Area (ha) 54 54 54 54 54
Maize Total produce 2268 2808 3348 3510 3618
Unit price (birr) 3200 3200 3200 3200 3200
Gross return 7257600 8985600 10713600 11232000 11577600
Yield (qt/ha) 18 25 29 30 31
Area (ha) 36 36 36 36 36
Teff Total produce 648 900 1,044 1,080 1,116
Unit price (birr) 7200 7200 7200 7200 7200
Gross return 4,665,600 6,480,000 7,516,800 7,776,000 8,035,200
Yield (qt/ha) 27 36 48 52 53
Area (ha) 36 36 36 36 36
Barely Total produce 972 1,296 1,728 1,872 1,908
Unit price (birr) 3100 3100 3100 3100 3100
Gross return 3,013,200 4,017,600 5,356,800 5,803,200 5,914,800
Yield (qt/ha) 30 36 41 44 45
Area (ha) 36 36 36 36 36
Millet Total produce 1,080 1,296 1,476 1,584 1,620
Unit price (birr) 3,800 3,800 3,800 3,800 3,800
Gross return 4,104,000 4,924,800 5,608,800 6,019,200 6,156,000
Yield (qt/ha) 33 37 38 40 41
Area (ha) 18 18 18 18 18
Faba
Total produce 594 666 684 720 738
bean
Unit price (birr) 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500
Gross return 2,079,000 2,331,000 2,394,000 2,520,000 2,583,000
Yield (qt/ha) 120 145 164 180 185
Area (ha) 54 54 54 54 54
Onion Total produce 6480 7830 8856 9720 9990
Unit price (birr) 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000
Gross return 259,200,000 313,200,000 354,240,000 388,800,000 399,600,000
Potato Yield (qt/ha) 130 165 186 196 205
Area (ha) 27 27 27 27 27
Total produce 3,510 4,455 5,022 5,292 5,535
Unit price (birr) 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500
Gross return 5,265,000 6,682,500 7,533,000 7,938,000 8,302,500
66
Yield (qt/ha) 95 120 138 146 150

Area (ha) 63 63 63 63 63
Garlic Total produce 5985 7560 8694 9198 9450
Unit price (birr) 11,000 11,000 11,000 11,000 11,000
Gross return 65835000 83160000 95634000 101178000 103950000
Yield (qt/ha) 156 169 185 190 195
Area (ha) 27 27 27 27 27
Total produce 4212 4563 4995 5130 5265
Unit price (birr) 3500 3500 3500 3500 3500
Tomato Gross return 14742000 15970500 17482500 17955000 18427500
Yield (qt/ha) 22 34 40 45 47
Area (ha) 9 9 9 9 9
Total produce 198 306 360 405 423
Unit price (birr) 4700 4700 4700 4700 4700
Wheat Gross return 930600 1438200 1692000 1903500 1988100
Total Return 367,092,000 447,190,200 508,171,500 551,124,900 566,534,700
4.12. Agricultural Development Scenarios and Options

4.12.1. General
The major target of the irrigation development study at any level is to prepare a developable,
feasible, fundable and above all sustainable project to the planners and decision makers for
implementation. After formulating cropping pattern, farm inputs, yield estimation and build up crop
water requirements in pervious sections, etc. the next decisive step of agricultural development
planning is to provide at most possible scenarios, options and alternatives. Agricultural
Development Scenarios and Options should give the choice of possible crop mix and farming
enterprise available. Justifications for those scenarios and options have to be in place.
4.12.2. Basis of agricultural development scenarios and options

Basis for formulation of scenarios could be: crop types and cropping pattern, settlement and land
consolidation, land allocation and re-allocation, development of agro-processing industries and raw
materials, integration of livestock with irrigation (such as, livestock & irrigated pasture), fishery and
tourism (i.e., creation of a reservoir for development of irrigation could stimulate fishery and lake
tourism), irrigation and apiculture (i.e., their compatibility), etc.
67
On top of the above exemplary basis for the formulation of agricultural development scenarios and
from the nature of the present irrigation project site and localities, “integration of livestock with
irrigation”, to use as mixed farming, has been proposed for this project.
Justifications for this scenario are:
The agro-ecology of the project area is suitable for most low-land & mid-land cereals,
pulse, root &vegetable crops production.
The agro-ecology of the project area is suitable for most forage growing,
There is shortage of animal feed,
Farmers experiences on the production of Onion, Garlic, Maize, Teff, potato, pulse crops
are long lasting,
Vegetables & root crops are a high yielder crop as compared to other field crops.
4.12.3. Pilot scheme and/or research
The recommended cropping patterns and scenarios/options have to be tested on a pilot basis before
it is extensively adopted on the whole project area. A pilot scheme serves, for example, to adopt
new and presently untried varieties of selected crops, including hybrid varieties and pasture crops,
to display new agro-technologies and agricultural practices, etc.
Based on the aforementioned facts, some of the recommended crop varieties for this development
irrigation project are new for the project area and farmers too. Of the recommended crop varieties
which are new for the area and local farmers are; Potato.Barely varieties most vegetable varieties,
etc.
68
5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1. CONCLUSION
The current crop production of the project area has been constrained by different social,
institutional, agronomical, and environmental factors that contribute undesirable development of the
cropping system in particular and the agriculture sector in general. The productivity of crops hasn’t
at promising stages due to moisture stress, crop pests attack (especially insect pests like stalk borer),
weeds (like striga) and crop diseases, and also traditional farming practices and other extension
associated problems. For the reason that agricultural support services are not strong enough or are
loosen, majority of the farmers in the project area are not acquainting those improved technologies
that transforms the existing backward farming practices. As a result, the current crop production
system shows neither sustainable growth nor modern technology based production system.
Following the aforementioned reasons, even farmers of the project area currently haven’t developed
good traditional irrigation agriculture in the area. As a consequence, introduction of modern
irrigation is a shortcut solution for sustainable development to avoid crop production uncertainties.
To see sustainable development, the existing back ward production system of rain-fed agriculture
has to be transformed to modern rain-fed (with supplementary irrigation) . In view of that, it is
highly valuable to implement the proposed development project with proper application of the
following recommendations so as to deserve the intended project objectives.
69
5.2. Recommendation
The following points are recommended for the success full implementation of the present project:
Training on irrigation agronomy and management should be provided to DAs and

beneficiary framers to equip them with sufficient techniques and skills on irrigation
methods, utilization of agricultural inputs (specifically improved seeds), improved crop
management practices, etc.
Different demonstration and adaptation trials on modern irrigation practices should have to
be adopted on farmers’ fields.
As the irrigation water source is from Qeha and has limited water resources and planned to
irrigate the limited area so that Qeha weir irrigation project recommended for supplementary
irrigation and first round irrigation .
Following the irrigation water source, Qeha weir structure flow rate per second will be
reduced in the dry seasons; and hence it should be used as efficiently as possible; wastage of
water should be avoided.
The project Water Users Association (WUA) should be established soon and acquire legal
bases from the concerned offices and has to play its role for the sustainability of the project.
It is quite important to implement the irrigation project in accordance with the proposed
cropping pattern and calendar so as to avoid irrigation water management related problems.
It is also important to widen and strengthen the inputs and credit supplying institutions in the
area so as to supply inputs and credits sufficiently and on timely bases.
70
6. REFERENCES
Agricultural research technologies using manual (Amharic version) volume 1, 2005. Cereal
crops production. Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), Ethiopia.
Agricultural research technologies using manual (Amharic version) volume 2, 2005.
Pulse, oil crops and spice crops production. Amhara Agricultural Research Institute
(ARARI), Ethiopia.
Agricultural research technologies’ use manual (Amharic version) volume 2, 2005.
Vegetables and fruit crops production. Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI),
Ethiopia.
Agricultural research technologies manual (Amharic version), 2007. Crop technologies and
managements. Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia.
Amhara national regional state of Bureau of Agriculture, 2000. Crop production and
protection manual, Ethiopia.
Andrews, D.H. and A.H. Kassm, 1977. The importance of multiple cropping in increasing
world food supplies. In: Multiple cropping (egs)-ASA. Special publication number ASA.
CSSA.SSSA. Madison, Wisconsin.
The 2021 Population and Housing Census of Ethiopia: Statistical Report for Amhara
Region. Central Statistics Agency (CSA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
FAO, 2000. Irrigation and drainage Paper No.56, Crop Evapotranspiration-Guideline for
computing crop water requirements, Rome, Italy.
FAO, 1984. Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 24, Crop Water Requirement, Rome, Italy.
FAO, 1986. Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 33, Yield Response to Water, Rome, Italy.
J.Doorenbos and W.O.Pruitt, 1977. Guidelines for Predicting Crop Water Requirements.
FAO Irrigation and Drainage Pepper, No. 24, Rome, Italy.
71
7. ANNEXES
Country: Ethiopia; Alt: 2020, Lat: 12.07 0 (North), Long: 37.520 (East)
Station: Addis Zemen
Annex 1: Meteorological and ETo data of the study area
Min Max
Month Temp Temp Humidity Wind Sunshine Radiation ETo
°C °C % km/day hours MJ/m²/day mm/day
January 8.8 30.6 63 173 12.3 24.5 4.39
February 10.5 32.2 63 173 12.4 26.4 5
March 11.6 32.7 64 173 12.5 28.2 5.53
April 12.1 31.7 65 173 12.2 28.4 5.57
May 12.9 31.5 66 173 12 27.6 5.52
June 12.8 28.2 69 173 10.6 25.1 4.88
July 12.4 25.4 72 173 9.2 23.1 4.33
August 12.6 25.3 73 173 8.9 23 4.27
September 12.1 27.5 69 173 10.2 24.7 4.64
October 10.6 29.3 66 173 11.5 25.4 4.73
November 9 29.7 64 173 12.1 24.5 4.42
December 8.2 29.9 63 173 12.3 23.8 4.21
Average 11.1 29.5 66 173 11.3 25.4 4.79
Annex 2: Rainfall data of Addis Zemen

Eff.
Rain Rain
mm Mm
January 4.3 4.3
February 2.1 2.1
March 17.5 17
April 23.3 22.4
May 78.5 68.6
June 180.8 128.5
July 446.1 169.6
August 387.1 163.7
September 169.2 123.4
October 43.6 40.6
November 14.4 14.1
December 1.6 1.6
Total 1368.5 755.9
72
Annex 3: Length of growing period (LGP), crop coefficient (Kc) and others data for irrigated crops in wet and dry seasons
crop
Land
Crops Planting Harvest Critical depletion Root depth (m) max.
LGP Initial Dev. Mid Late share Yield response
proposed Date date (P) ( stages) ht
%
(m)
Wet
100 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 Initial Late
Season
0.2
120 20 30 40 30 08-July 04-Nov 20 0.20 0.60 0.50 1.0 0.45 0.50 0.50 0.15 0.50 0.8
Tef 0
Kc 0.3 1.0 0.7
160 35 45 50 30 03-May 09-Oct 30 0.4 1.25 0.5 0.2 1.25 0.50 0.55 0.55 0.20 1.0 2.0
Maize
Kc 0.7 1.2 0.6
0.2
145 25 30 55 35 01-June 23-Oct 20 0.20 0.55 0.45 0.90 0.50 0.55 0.55 0.10 1.0 1.0
Millet 0
Kc 0.7 1.0 0.3
0.2
130 15 35 50 30 28-May 04-Oct 20 0.20 0.65 0.55 1.15 0.50 0.55 0.55 0.10 1.0 1.0
Barely 0
Kc 0.5 1.15 0.3
0.2
140 20 40 40 40 29-May 15-Oct 10 0.20 1.10 0.75 1.15 0.40 0.45 0.45 0.10 0.7 0.8
Faba bean 0
Kc 0.5 1.15 0.30
Dry Season
0.3
120 25 55 25 15 26-Nov 25-Mar 30 0.45 1.0 0.80 1.10 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.15 0.30 0.4
Onion 0
Kc 0.7 1.05 0.75
130 20 50 30 30 28-Nov 06-Apri 35 0.45 1.0 0.8 0.3 1.10 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.1 0.3 0.4
Garlic
Kc 0.7 1.05 0.75
120 20 30 40 30 28-Nov 04-Apr 15 0.8 0.95 0.7 0.2 1.10 0.30 0.35 0.35 0.2 0.4 0.6
Potato
Kc 0.5 1.2 0.75
0.4
105 25 30 30 20 28-Nov 12-Mar 15 0.4 1.1 0.8 1.0 0.35 0.40 0.40 0.25 0.7 0.6
Tomato 0
Kc 0.6 1.15 0.70
0.2
120 15 35 40 30 24-Nov 23-Mar 5 0.20 0.65 0.55 1.0 0.50 0.55 0.55 0.20 1.0 1.0
Wheat 0
73
Annex 4: Net Crop Water Requirements for Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project
Annex 4.1: Net Crop Water Requirement of Teff
Month Decade Stage Kc ETc ETc Eff rain Irr. Req.
coeff mm/day mm/dec mm/dec mm/dec
Jul 1 Init 0.3 1.35 4.1 16 4.1
Jul 2 Init 0.3 1.3 13 58.7 0
Jul 3 Deve 0.32 1.39 15.2 57.3 0
Aug 1 Deve 0.53 2.26 22.6 56.3 0
Aug 2 Deve 0.77 3.27 32.7 56.2 0
Aug 3 Mid 0.99 4.33 47.6 51.2 0
Sep 1 Mid 1.02 4.59 45.9 46.9 0
Sep 2 Mid 1.02 4.72 47.2 43.1 4.1
Sep 3 Mid 1.02 4.75 47.5 33.3 14.3
Oct 1 Late 1 4.72 47.2 21 26.2
Oct 2 Late 0.92 4.35 43.5 10.9 32.7
Oct 3 Late 0.82 3.8 41.9 8.8 33
Nov 1 Late 0.75 3.4 13.6 2.9 10
422 462.6 124.3
Annex 4.2: Net Crop Water Requirement of Maize

May 1 Init 0.7 3.87 31 13.9 13.7
May 2 Init 0.7 3.86 38.6 22.3 16.3
May 3 Init 0.7 3.71 40.8 29.1 11.7
Jun 1 Deve 0.71 3.62 36.2 36.7 0
Jun 2 Deve 0.81 3.94 39.4 43.7 0
Jun 3 Deve 0.92 4.31 43.1 48 0
Jul 1 Deve 1.03 4.65 46.5 53.4 0
Jul 2 Deve 1.14 4.94 49.4 58.7 0
Jul 3 Mid 1.2 5.19 57 57.3 0
Aug 1 Mid 1.2 5.16 51.6 56.3 0
Aug 2 Mid 1.2 5.14 51.4 56.2 0
Aug 3 Mid 1.2 5.29 58.2 51.2 7
Sep 1 Late 1.2 5.43 54.3 46.9 7.3
Sep 2 Late 1.08 5.01 50.1 43.1 7
Sep 3 Late 0.89 4.15 41.5 33.3 8.2
Oct 1 Late 0.71 3.32 29.9 18.9 9
719.1 669 80.2
74
Annex 4.3: Net Crop Water Requirement of Finger Millet

Jun 1 Init 0.7 3.57 35.7 36.7 0
Jun 2 Init 0.7 3.42 34.2 43.7 0
Jun 3 Deve 0.72 3.36 33.6 48 0
Jul 1 Deve 0.81 3.64 36.4 53.4 0
Jul 2 Deve 0.91 3.93 39.3 58.7 0
Jul 3 Mid 1 4.29 47.2 57.3 0
Aug 1 Mid 1.01 4.31 43.1 56.3 0
Aug 2 Mid 1.01 4.29 42.9 56.2 0
Aug 3 Mid 1.01 4.42 48.6 51.2 0
Sep 1 Mid 1.01 4.54 45.4 46.9 0
Sep 2 Late 1 4.64 46.4 43.1 3.3
Sep 3 Late 0.85 3.99 39.9 33.3 6.7
Oct 1 Late 0.65 3.07 30.7 21 9.7
Oct 2 Late 0.45 2.14 21.4 10.9 10.5
Oct 3 Late 0.32 1.48 4.4 2.4 0
549.2 619.1 30.2
Annex 4.4: Net Crop Water Requirement of Barely

May 3 Init 0.5 2.65 10.6 10.6 10.6
Jun 1 Init 0.5 2.55 25.5 36.7 0
Jun 2 Deve 0.58 2.85 28.5 43.7 0
Jun 3 Deve 0.77 3.62 36.2 48 0
Jul 1 Deve 0.96 4.31 43.1 53.4 0
Jul 2 Mid 1.12 4.86 48.6 58.7 0
Jul 3 Mid 1.15 4.96 54.6 57.3 0
Aug 1 Mid 1.15 4.94 49.4 56.3 0
Aug 2 Mid 1.15 4.91 49.1 56.2 0
Aug 3 Mid 1.15 5.06 55.6 51.2 4.5
Sep 1 Late 1.09 4.93 49.3 46.9 2.4
Sep 2 Late 0.83 3.83 38.3 43.1 0
Sep 3 Late 0.54 2.53 25.3 33.3 0
Oct 1 Late 0.34 1.61 6.4 8.4 0
520.5 603.8 17.4
75
Annex 4.5: Net Crop Water Requirement of Fababean

May 3 Init 0.5 2.65 8 7.9 8
Jun 1 Init 0.5 2.55 25.5 36.7 0
Jun 2 Deve 0.51 2.49 24.9 43.7 0
Jun 3 Deve 0.64 3 30 48 0
Jul 1 Deve 0.8 3.62 36.2 53.4 0
Jul 2 Deve 0.96 4.17 41.7 58.7 0
Jul 3 Mid 1.12 4.83 53.1 57.3 0
Aug 1 Mid 1.15 4.94 49.4 56.3 0
Aug 2 Mid 1.15 4.91 49.1 56.2 0
Aug 3 Mid 1.15 5.06 55.6 51.2 4.5
Sep 1 Late 1.12 5.06 50.6 46.9 3.6
Sep 2 Late 0.93 4.31 43.1 43.1 0
Sep 3 Late 0.72 3.34 33.4 33.3 0.1
Oct 1 Late 0.5 2.36 23.6 21 2.7
Oct 2 Late 0.34 1.62 8.1 5.4 2.7
532.2 619.2 21.5
Dry Season Crops

Annex 4.6: Net Crop Water Requirement of Onion
Nov 3 Init 0.7 3.05 15.2 1.4 13.8
Dec 1 Init 0.7 3 30 1.3 28.6
Dec 2 Init 0.7 2.95 29.5 0 29.5
Dec 3 Deve 0.74 3.17 34.9 0.4 34.5
Jan 1 Deve 0.82 3.54 35.4 1.3 34.1
Jan 2 Deve 0.89 3.9 39 1.6 37.4
Jan 3 Deve 0.96 4.42 48.6 1.3 47.3
Feb 1 Deve 1.04 4.97 49.7 0.5 49.2
Feb 2 Mid 1.09 5.43 54.3 0 54.3
Feb 3 Mid 1.09 5.64 45.1 1.8 43.4
Mar 1 Mid 1.09 5.83 58.3 4.3 54.1
Mar 2 Late 0.98 5.42 54.2 6.1 48.1
Mar 3 Late 0.83 4.59 23 3 19.7
517.2 22.9 494
76
Annex 4.7: Net Crop Water Requirement of Garlic

Nov 3 Init 0.7 3.05 9.1 0.9 9.1
Dec 1 Init 0.7 3 30 1.3 28.6
Dec 2 Deve 0.7 2.97 29.7 0 29.7
Dec 3 Deve 0.77 3.29 36.2 0.4 35.8
Jan 1 Deve 0.85 3.69 36.9 1.3 35.7
Jan 2 Deve 0.93 4.09 40.9 1.6 39.2
Jan 3 Deve 1.01 4.65 51.2 1.3 49.8
Feb 1 Mid 1.08 5.19 51.9 0.5 51.4
Feb 2 Mid 1.09 5.45 54.5 0 54.5
Feb 3 Mid 1.09 5.64 45.1 1.8 43.4
Mar 1 Late 1.08 5.8 58 4.3 53.8
Mar 2 Late 1 5.55 55.5 6.1 49.5
Mar 3 Late 0.9 4.98 54.8 6.5 48.2
Apr 1 Late 0.81 4.52 27.1 3.4 24.3
580.8 29.3 553
Annex 4.8: Net Crop Water Requirement of Potato

Dec 1 Init 0.5 2.14 17.1 1.1 15.8
Dec 2 Init 0.5 2.1 21 0 21
Dec 3 Deve 0.6 2.57 28.3 0.4 27.8
Jan 1 Deve 0.86 3.73 37.3 1.3 36
Jan 2 Deve 1.11 4.87 48.7 1.6 47.1
Jan 3 Mid 1.25 5.73 63 1.3 61.7
Feb 1 Mid 1.25 5.98 59.8 0.5 59.3
Feb 2 Mid 1.25 6.23 62.3 0 62.3
Feb 3 Mid 1.25 6.45 51.6 1.8 49.8
Mar 1 Late 1.19 6.38 63.8 4.3 59.5
Mar 2 Late 1.04 5.76 57.6 6.1 51.6
Mar 3 Late 0.88 4.9 53.9 6.5 47.4
Apr 1 Late 0.79 4.41 4.4 0.6 4.4
568.8 25.3 543.8
77
Annex 4.9: Net Crop Water Requirement of Tomato

Nov 3 Init 0.6 2.61 7.8 0.9 7.8
Dec 1 Init 0.6 2.57 25.7 1.3 24.4
Dec 2 Init 0.6 2.52 25.2 0 25.2
Dec 3 Deve 0.68 2.91 32 0.4 31.6
Jan 1 Deve 0.89 3.85 38.5 1.3 37.2
Jan 2 Deve 1.09 4.78 47.8 1.6 46.1
Jan 3 Mid 1.2 5.5 60.5 1.3 59.2
Feb 1 Mid 1.2 5.74 57.4 0.5 56.9
Feb 2 Mid 1.2 5.98 59.8 0 59.8
Feb 3 Late 1.09 5.67 45.3 1.8 43.6
Mar 1 Late 0.89 4.77 47.7 4.3 43.4
Mar 2 Late 0.76 4.18 8.4 1.2 8.4
456.1 14.5 443.6
Annex 4.10: Net Crop Water Requirement of Wheat

Nov 3 Init 0.3 1.31 9.1 2 7.7
Dec 1 Deve 0.31 1.32 13.2 1.3 11.9
Dec 2 Deve 0.49 2.08 20.8 0 20.8
Dec 3 Deve 0.77 3.27 35.9 0.4 35.5
Jan 1 Deve 1.04 4.49 44.9 1.3 43.6
Jan 2 Mid 1.2 5.28 52.8 1.6 51.2
Jan 3 Mid 1.2 5.53 60.9 1.3 59.6
Feb 1 Mid 1.2 5.78 57.8 0.5 57.3
Feb 2 Mid 1.2 6.02 60.2 0 60.2
Feb 3 Late 1.11 5.75 46 1.8 44.2
Mar 1 Late 0.87 4.65 46.5 4.3 42.3
Mar 2 Late 0.6 3.33 33.3 6.1 27.2
Mar 3 Late 0.43 2.37 7.1 1.8 3.8
488.4 22.3 465.2
78
Annex 5: Irrigation schedule of Qeha Irrigation Project for proposed crops
Wet Season
Annex 5.1: Irrigation Schedule of Teff

Net Gr.
Date Day Stage Rain Ks Eta Depl Irr Deficit Loss Irr Flow
mm fract. % % mm mm Mm mm l/s/ha
8-Jul 1 Init 0 0.91 91 54 16.9 0 0 24.2 2.8
11-
Oct 96 End 0 1 100 53 52.9 0 0 75.6 0.09
28-
Oct 113 End 0 1 100 52 52 0 0 74.3 0.51
4-Nov End End 0 1 0 18
Annex 5.2: Irrigation Schedule of Maize

Net Gr.
mm fract. % % mm mm mm mm l/s/ha
5-
May 3 Init 0 1 100 55 25.4 0 0 36.3 1.4
16-
May 14 Init 0 1 100 53 36.2 0 0 51.7 0.54
9-Oct End End 0 1 0 12
Annex 5.3: Irrigation Schedule of Millet

Net Gr.
1-Jun 1 Init 0 1 100 65 15.2 0 0 21.7 2.52
23-
Oct End End 0 1 100 17
Annex 5.4: Irrigation Schedule of Barely

Net Gr.
28-
May 1 Init 0 1 100 61 14.5 0 0 20.7 2.39
2-Jun 6 Init 0 1 100 53 22.2 0 0 31.8 0.74
4-Oct End End 0 1 100 1
79
80
Annex 5.5: Irrigation Schedule of Fababean

Net Gr.
Date Day Stage Rain Ks ETa Depl Irr Deficit Loss Irr Flow
29-
May 1 Init 0 0.83 83 60 13.2 0 0 18.9 2.19
2-Jun 5 Init 0 1 100 48 14.5 0 0 20.7 0.6
15-
Oct End End 0 1 100 9
81
Dry Season
Annex 5.6: Irrigation Schedule of Onion
Date Day Stage Rain Ks ETa Depl Net Irr Deficit Loss Gr. Irr Flow
mm fract. % % mm mm Mm mm l/s/ha
26-Nov 1 Init 0 0.71 71 57 17.4 0 0 24.8 2.87
29-Nov 4 Init 0 1 100 31 9.7 0 0 13.8 0.53
3-Dec 8 Init 0.7 1 100 37 12.1 0 0 17.2 0.5
7-Dec 12 Init 0.7 1 100 35 12 0 0 17.2 0.5
11-Dec 16 Init 0 1 100 35 12.6 0 0 18 0.52
15-Dec 20 Init 0 1 100 33 12.5 0 0 17.8 0.52
19-Dec 24 Init 0 1 100 32 12.5 0 0 17.8 0.52
23-Dec 28 Dev 0.2 1 100 32 12.9 0 0 18.5 0.53
27-Dec 32 Dev 0.2 1 100 31 13.2 0 0 18.8 0.54
31-Dec 36 Dev 0 1 100 31 13.4 0 0 19.1 0.55
4-Jan 40 Dev 0 1 100 32 14.2 0 0 20.3 0.59
8-Jan 44 Dev 0 1 100 31 14.2 0 0 20.3 0.59
12-Jan 48 Dev 0 1 100 32 15.6 0 0 22.2 0.64
16-Jan 52 Dev 0 1 100 33 16.2 0 0 23.1 0.67
20-Jan 56 Dev 0 1 100 31 16.1 0 0 22.9 0.66
24-Jan 60 Dev 0 1 100 33 17.5 0 0 25 0.72
28-Jan 64 Dev 0 1 100 32 17.5 0 0 25 0.72
1-Feb 68 Dev 0 1 100 34 18.7 0 0 26.7 0.77
5-Feb 72 Dev 0 1 100 35 20.1 0 0 28.8 0.83
9-Feb 76 Dev 0 1 100 34 20.1 0 0 28.8 0.83
13-Feb 80 Dev 0 1 100 36 21.6 0 0 30.9 0.89
17-Feb 84 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.7 0 0 31.1 0.9
21-Feb 88 Mid 0 1 100 37 21.9 0 0 31.3 0.91
25-Feb 92 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.7 0 0 31 0.9
1-Mar 96 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.9 0 0 31.2 0.9
5-Mar 100 Mid 0 1 100 35 21.1 0 0 30.2 0.87
9-Mar 104 Mid 0 1 100 35 21.1 0 0 30.2 0.87
13-Mar 108 End 3.1 1 100 32 19 0 0 27.1 0.78
17-Mar 112 End 3.1 1 100 31 18.5 0 0 26.5 0.77
21-Mar 116 End 0 1 100 35 20.8 0 0 29.8 0.86
25-Mar End End 0 1 100 17
82
Annex 5.7: Irrigation Schedule of Garlic

Net
Date Day Stage Rain Ks Eta Depl Irr Deficit Loss Gr. Irr Flow
mm fract. % % mm mm mm Mm l/s/ha
28-Nov 1 Init 0 0.71 71 61 12.5 0 0 17.8 2.06
30-Nov 3 Init 0 1 100 31 6.7 0 0 9.5 0.55
3-Dec 6 Init 0.7 1 100 39 9.2 0 0 13.1 0.51
6-Dec 9 Init 0 1 100 39 9.9 0 0 14.1 0.54
9-Dec 12 Init 0 1 100 37 9.8 0 0 14 0.54
12-Dec 15 Init 0 1 100 34 9.8 0 0 13.9 0.54
15-Dec 18 Init 0 1 100 32 9.7 0 0 13.9 0.54
18-Dec 21 Dev 0 1 100 30 9.7 0 0 13.9 0.54
22-Dec 25 Dev 0 1 100 40 13.6 0 0 19.5 0.56
26-Dec 29 Dev 0 1 100 39 14.3 0 0 20.4 0.59
30-Dec 33 Dev 0 1 100 37 14.2 0 0 20.3 0.59
3-Jan 37 Dev 0.6 1 100 36 14.8 0 0 21.2 0.61
7-Jan 41 Dev 0.6 1 100 35 15.2 0 0 21.7 0.63
11-Jan 45 Dev 0 1 100 36 16.2 0 0 23.2 0.67
15-Jan 49 Dev 0 1 100 35 16.6 0 0 23.7 0.69
19-Jan 53 Dev 0 1 100 33 16.6 0 0 23.7 0.69
23-Jan 57 Dev 0.7 1 100 35 18.5 0 0 26.4 0.76
27-Jan 61 Dev 0.7 1 100 35 19 0 0 27.2 0.79
31-Jan 65 Dev 0 1 100 34 19.7 0 0 28.1 0.81
4-Feb 69 Dev 0 1 100 36 21.6 0 0 30.9 0.89
8-Feb 73 Mid 0 1 100 34 20.5 0 0 29.3 0.85
12-Feb 77 Mid 0 1 100 35 21.3 0 0 30.4 0.88
16-Feb 81 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.8 0 0 31.1 0.9
20-Feb 85 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.8 0 0 31.1 0.9
24-Feb 89 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.7 0 0 31 0.9
28-Feb 93 Mid 0 1 100 36 21.7 0 0 31 0.9
4-Mar 97 Mid 0 1 100 35 21 0 0 30 0.87
8-Mar 101 End 0 1 100 35 21 0 0 30 0.87
12-Mar 105 End 0 1 100 38 22.7 0 0 32.5 0.94
16-Mar 109 End 0 1 100 37 22.2 0 0 31.7 0.92
20-Mar 113 End 0 1 100 37 22.2 0 0 31.7 0.92
25-Mar 118 End 0 1 100 36 21.5 0 0 30.8 0.71
30-Mar 123 End 0 1 100 36 21.5 0 0 30.8 0.71
4-Apr 128 End 0 1 100 34 20.2 0 0 28.9 0.67
6-Apr End End 0 1 100 8
83
Annex 5.8: Irrigation Schedule of Potato

Net Gr.
3-Dec 1 Init 0.7 0.74 74 52 21.3 0 0 30.5 3.53
9-Dec 7 Init 0 1 100 32 14.6 0 0 20.9 0.4
16-
Dec 14 Init 0 1 100 34 17.6 0 0 25.2 0.42
23-
Dec 21 Dev 0.2 1 100 33 18.8 0 0 26.8 0.44
30-
Dec 28 Dev 0 1 100 33 20.6 0 0 29.5 0.49
5-Jan 34 Dev 0 1 100 34 23 0 0 32.9 0.63
11-Jan 40 Dev 0 1 100 35 25.3 0 0 36.2 0.7
17-Jan 46 Dev 0.8 1 100 39 30.1 0 0 42.9 0.83
23-Jan 52 Mid 0.7 1 100 40 32.4 0 0 46.2 0.89
29-Jan 58 Mid 0 1 100 42 33.7 0 0 48.1 0.93
3-Feb 63 Mid 0.2 1 100 36 29.2 0 0 41.7 0.96
8-Feb 68 Mid 0 1 100 37 29.7 0 0 42.4 0.98
13-
Feb 73 Mid 0 1 100 38 30.6 0 0 43.8 1.01
18-
Feb 78 Mid 0 1 100 39 31.1 0 0 44.5 1.03
23-
Feb 83 Mid 0.9 1 100 39 30.9 0 0 44.2 1.02
28-
Feb 88 Mid 0 1 100 39 31.4 0 0 44.8 1.04
5-Mar 93 End 0 1 100 37 29.7 0 0 42.4 0.98
10-
Mar 98 End 0 1 100 37 29.7 0 0 42.4 0.98
16-
Mar 104 End 0 1 100 39 31.5 0 0 45 0.87
22-
Mar 110 End 0 1 100 41 32.9 0 0 46.9 0.91
29-
Mar 117 End 0 1 100 39 30.9 0 0 44.2 0.73
1-Apr End End 3.4 1 100 12
84
Annex 5.9: Irrigation Schedule of Tomato

Net Gr.
28-
Nov 1 Init 0 0.77 77 54 27.8 0 0 39.8 4.6
5-Dec 8 Init 0 1 100 37 23.2 0 0 33.2 0.55
14-
Dec 17 Init 0 1 100 38 29.8 0 0 42.5 0.55
24-
Dec 27 Dev 0 1 100 37 34.9 0 0 49.9 0.58
4-Jan 38 Dev 0 1 100 39 44.1 0 0 63 0.66
15-Jan 49 Dev 0 1 100 42 54.7 0 0 78.1 0.82
26-Jan 60 Mid 0 1 100 43 59.6 0 0 85.1 0.9
6-Feb 71 Mid 0 1 100 44 61.7 0 0 88.1 0.93
16-
Feb 81 Mid 0 1 100 42 58.8 0 0 84 0.97
26-
Feb 91 End 0 1 100 41 57 0 0 81.5 0.94
11-
Mar 104 End 0 1 100 42 58.8 0 0 84 0.75
12-
Mar End End 3.1 1 0 0
Annex 5.10: Irrigation Schedule of Wheat

Net Gr.
Date Day Stage Rain Ks ETa Depl Irr Deficit Loss Irr Flow
24-
Nov 1 Init 0 1 100 53 22.9 0 0 32.8 3.79
12-
Dec 19 Dev 0 1 100 51 51.8 0 0 74 0.48
1-Jan 39 Dev 0 1 100 54 89.3 0 0 127.6 0.74
21-Jan 59 Mid 0 1 100 56 112.2 0 0 160.3 0.93
10-
Feb 79 Mid 0 1 100 56 111.4 0 0 159.1 0.92
2-Mar 99 End 0 1 100 57 113.7 0 0 162.4 0.94
23-
Mar End End 3.4 1 100 32
85
Annex 6 Irrigation Scheme of Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project
Annex 1Annex 6 Irrigation Scheme of Qeha Diversion Irrigation Project

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Precipitation deficit
1. Teff 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.1 0 21.9 95.4 10.2 0
2. Maize 0 0 0 0 41.7 0 2.5 9.8 29.3 10.1 0 0
3. Millet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 14.4 21.9 0 0
4. Barely 0 0 0 0 10.6 0 0 7 4.6 0 0 0
5. Fababean 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 6.8 8.5 5.9 0 0
6. Onion 118.8 147 121.9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13.8 92.6
7. Garlic 124.8 149.3 151.6 24.3 0 0 0 0 0 0 9.1 94.1
8. Potato 144.9 171.5 158.6 4.4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 64.7
9. Tomato 142.6 160.3 51.8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7.8 81.2
10. Wheat 154.4 161.7 73.3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7.7 68.2
Net scheme irr.req.
in mm/day 4.2 5.5 4 0.3 0.5 0 0.1 0.2 0.6 0.9 0.4 2.8
in mm/month 130.2 154.2 124.8 9.2 15.4 0 1.6 5 17.8 27.1 10.9 86
in l/s/h 0.49 0.64 0.47 0.04 0.06 0 0.01 0.02 0.07 0.1 0.04 0.32
Irrigated area(% of total area) 100 100 100 50 60 0 50 60 100 80 105 100
Irr.req. for actual area(l/s/h) 0.49 0.64 0.47 0.07 0.1 0 0.01 0.03 0.07 0.13 0.04 0.32
Project effficiency, e (%) 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51 0.51
NIWR, mm/day 4.2 5.5 4 0.3 0.5 0 0.1 0.2 0.6 0.9 0.4 2.8
GIWR, mm/day 8.24 10.78 7.84 0.59 0.98 0.00 0.20 0.39 1.18 1.76 0.78 5.49
Preferred Irrigation Hours, IH (hr) 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 16
Duty, l/s/ha 1.27 1.66 1.21 0.09 0.15 0.00 0.03 0.06 0.18 0.27 0.12 0.95
Irrigated area (% of total area) 100 100 100 50 60 0 50 60 100 80 105 100
For 180 ha (area) IWR, mm/month 45952.9 56294.1 43764.7 6352.9 9117.6 0.0 2188.2 3647.1 6352.9 12308.8 4033.6 30635.3
IWR in m3 459529.4 562941.2 437647.1 63529.4 91176.5 0.0 21882.4 36470.6 63529.4 123088.2 40336.1 306352.9
IWR in MM3 0.46 0.56 0.44 0.06 0.09 0.00 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.12 0.04 0.31
number of day /month 31 29 31 30 31 30 31 31 30 31 30 31
86
Bureau of Irrigation and Low Land Areas Development Qeha Diversion small scale
Project
Annex 7 Agronomy Data Collection Checklist

1. Key Informant Interviews
 Name of the interviewee: ________________ ________________ _____________
i. Location and description of the study area:
 Region _____________________________________
 Zone _______________________________________
 Woreda_____________________________________
 Kebele (PA) _________________________________
 Major agro-climatic zone_______________________
 Project area _________________________________
ii. Climatic condition of the area:

Rainfall conditions:
 Duration of main/meher rain season _____________________ to ____________
 Duration of Belg rainy season (if any)____________________ to _____________
 Rainfall distribution (uniform/ erratic) __________________ belg ___________
 Rainfall intensity (low, high, very high) _________________ belg ____________
 Early rainfall start month of the area ____________________ belg ___________
 Late rainfall start month of the area _____________________ belg ___________
 Early rainfall end month of the area _____________________ belg ___________
 Late rainfall end month of the area ______________________ belg ___________
 Major rainfall receiving month/s of the area (Meher) _____________ belg ____
Temperature conditions:
 Hottest month/s in the area: ___________________________________________
 Coldest month/s in the area: __________________________________________
iii. Name of the bordering places of the project site
 East: _________________________________________________
 West: _________________________________________________
 South: ________________________________________________
 North: ________________________________________________
 Other: ________________________________________________
iv. Topography or Land form of the area
 Flat (Medama) _______________________ ha ________________ %
 Rouged (Wota geba) __________________ ha ________________ %
 Mountainous (Terarama) _______________ha ________________ %
 Marshy (Regregama) __________________ha ________________ %
 Valley (Shelekoma) ___________________ha ________________ %
v. Forest trees, bushes and shrubs commonly found in the area
 Forest trees: _________________________________________________________
 Bushes:______________________________________________________________
 Shrubs: _____________________________________________________________
vi. Soil types (color) and Land suitability of the project Area
 Red soils _________________________________________________ %
 Brown ___________________________________________________ %
 Black soil _________________________________________________ %
87
Bureau of Irrigation and Low Land Areas Development Qeha Diversion small scale
Project
 Gray soil __________________________________________________ %

 Any other __________________________________________________%
vii. Human population status of the project area
 Total population of the area____________________________________________

 Total households of area_______________________________________________
Viii . Present land use pattern of the project area
 Cultivated land area ____________________ Ha__________________%
 Grazing land area ______________________ Ha__________________%
 Forest land area ________________________ Ha__________________%
 Bush land area _________________________ Ha _________________%
 Water body area _______________________Ha__________________%
 Construction land area ___________________ Ha_________________%
 Useless land ___________________________ Ha_________________%
 Other land ____________________________Ha __________________%
 Total area project area ______________ha____________________%
Cropping System of the area
 Is shifting cultivation practiced? (Yes/no). If yes, in what extent? ______________
______________________________________________________________________
 Is crop rotation practiced? (Yes/no). If the answer is yes, which crops are commonly
rotated? (Draw the rotation pattern).
a) Rain Fed or Meher crops b) Irrigated crops /day season
_______________ ________________ _______________

_______________ ________________ ________________
_______________ ________________ _______________
_______________ ________________ _______________
_______________ ________________ _______________
88
 Is intercropping practiced in the area? (Yes/no). If your answer is yes, which crops are
commonly intercropped? (Rain fed /Irrigated)
Season Main crop Sub/second crop Intercropping method Adoption rate of

/Row or broad casting/ intercropping
Rain fed
Irrigated
viii. Cropping pattern

a) Existing crops grown under rain fed /Meher season/ in ______________ cropping year
Season Crop Area Share Yield Productivity Remark
Type Coverage in % Obtained (q/ha)
(ha) (Qt)
Rain fed
 What are the basic criteria for selection of crops grown under rain fed condition?
___________________________________________________________________________
b) Crops grown by commercial farming system in _____________ cropping year

Season Crop type Area Shar Yield Productivi Beneficia Remark
coverage e in (Qt) ty (q/ha) ry (HH)
(ha) %
Rain fed
c) Existing crops grown under irrigation (Traditional or modern) by medium holder farmers in-------
-------------cropping year
89
90
Season Crop Area Shar Yield (Qt) Productivi Beneficiar Remark

type coverage e in ty y (HH)
(ha) % (q/ha)
Irrigated
 Is there a water user’s administrative committee in the area? Explain.

___________________________________________________________________________
 What are the irrigation interval experiences in a season for the different crop
types?_____________________________________________________
 Existing irrigation activities (woreda or kebele) in ______________cropping year
No Types of structure No. of structures Cultivated Beneficiary Remark
. Functional Non- area (ha) (HH)
functiona
1 Diversion intake
2 Earthen dam
3 Spring development
4 Ground water
5 Water harvesting structures
 Geo-membrane lined
ponds
 Medium water walls
 Trapizoidal (on vertisols)
5 Water pumps
6 Pedal pumps (concrete &
metal)
7 Drippers
8 Traditional/Local diversions
 Rivers - Perennial
- Seasonal/Streams
 Springs - Perennial
-Seasonal
 What are the basic criteria for selection of crops grown under irrigation?
________________________________________________________________________
 What are the lists of rivers and springs found in the project area?
91
 Rivers: __________________________________________________________
 Springs: __________________________________________________________
 What is the individual farmer’s average land holding size (ha) in the area?
________________________________________________________________________
 What is the individual farmer average irrigated land holding size (ha) in the area?
_____________________________________________________________
 What is the individual farmer whole average land holding size (ha) in the area?
________________________________________________________________________
 What is the individual farmer average number of fragmented cultivated land (plots) in the area?
___________________________________________
 What is the farmers’ reaction as to the fragmentation of land? Explain.
________________________________________________________________________
 Is the average cropland holding size of the households decreasing through years? If yes explain
the main reasons for the decrease?
_____________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________
 Is there any cultivable land that is not cultivated in the area due to some reasons? If so what is
the reason? ______________________________________________
 Is there a change in the cropping pattern in the last 5 years? Mention the changes and the
reasons.__________________________________________
 Which year do you consider was good/medium/bad year for agriculture in the area? Mention the
year respectively.
___________________________________________________________________________
xiii. Crop establishment and management practices
 Do farmers clear or remove crop stubble’s and residues on their farmlands before land
preparation starts? If not, explain main reasons. ________________________
 Crop calendar for major crops in Rain fed or Meher season (fill in months of the year)
Major crop Start & Plowing/land Raise Sowing/ Weeding Harvesting Threshing
types End preparation transplant Planting
seedlings
Start
End
Start
End
Start
End
Start
End
92
 How many times do farmers plow their land during land preparation?
Type of Frequency of plowing Months of plowing Remark
crops
a. Rain fed
b. Irrigated
 For which crops land preparation starts earlier? Explain main reasons. _________
_______________________________________________________________________
 Do farmers plant in time before the rains? If not, explain main reasons.
________________________________________________________________________
 How is weeding carried out?
 Do farmers start weeding on time? ____________________________
 Do farmers have sufficient labor for weeding? _____________________
 Do farmers weed all types of crops? If not which crops are commonly not weeded.
__________________________________________________
 Who participate in weeding from the household members? __________________
 Do women participate in weeding? __________________________
 Is weed control a critical problem in the area? ______________________________
 How do farmers normally sow/plant and weed their crop fields during wet & dry seasons (main
crops)?
93
Type of crops Sowing/planting method & Frequency weeding time (month)

share in % of
Broad casting Row weeding 1st 2nd 3rd Cultivation
(%) planting (%) round round round (hoeing)
a. Rain fed
crops
b. Irrigated
crops
 What is the common seed rate that the local farmers use (by crop type)?
_____________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
 Do farmers have shortage of draught power in the area? If yes, explain the extent of the
problem.__________________________________________________________
 How many oxen and households are there in the project are? No. of oxen: _______ Households
________
 How many of the households have 1, 2, 3 or 4 oxen and how many are oxen-less in the area?
Describe.
 Oxen- less: ______________________________________________________
 Single ox: ______________________________________________________
 Two oxen: __________________________________________
 Three oxen: ________________ More than three oxen: __________________
 How farmers, who have no farm oxen, cultivate their farmland and grow crops? Describe the
local experiences. If there is renting of land describe how the renting agreement is
performed.__________________________________________________
 How do female farmers, who have farmland, can cultivate and grow crops in the area?
Describe.___________________________________________
 Do farmers weed and harvest their crops individually or by group (Debo, Wonfel, etc)?
Describe.____________________________________________________
What is the existing man days and oxen days for major crop types in the project area?
94
Activities Major crop types
Nursery Man
(Raising
Oxen
transplant
materials)
Land Man
preparation Oxen
Sowing/plant Man
ing (fertilizer Oxen
application)
Weeding/cro Man
p protectionOxen
Irrigation Man
Oxen
Harvesting Man
Oxen
Threshing Man
Oxen
Transportatio Man
n & storage Oxen
xiv. Input provision and utilization
 Describe the demand, supply and distribution situation of agricultural inputs and whether there
is constraint or not in the area?
 Fertilizer:___________________________________________________
 Improved seed:_______________________________________________________
 Agro-chemicals: _____________________________________________________
 Farm tools: ____________________________________
 Explain the constraints for the major inputs distributed in the area?
 Fertilizer: ______________________________________________________
 Improved seeds: ___________________________________________________
 Agro-chemicals: ______________________________________________________
 Farm tools:__________________________________________________
 Are artificial fertilizers used in the area? Yes /No? If yes, to which extent? (in ________ crop
year).
95
S Crop type Area cultivated Fertilizer Application Condition

/ With fertilizer Type of Fertilizer Used
N (DAP/UREA/Bio- Rate of Fertilizer Used
Fertilizer)
Ha % DAP UREA
 Are improved seeds used? Yes /No. If yes, to which extent? (in _________cropping year)
S/N Crop type Total Area cultivated

With improved With local seeds Type of Total
seeds improved amount used
Ha % Ha % Variety used (qt)
Summary for modern agricultural inputs use during ___________________ cropping season
S/no Types of inputs Unit Quantity Unit price Application Time of
used (birr) rate application
I Improved seed
II Fertilizer
DAP
UREA
Lime
Bio-fertilizer
III Agro-chemicals
Insecticides
Fungicides
Herbicides
Rodenticides
Storage pest chemicals
96
IV Farm tools
BBM
Tieriger
Subsoiler
Armstrong
Row planter
Walky tractor (Adisu Gebere)
Thresher
Sheller
Polisher
Silo
Horse cart
 What are the input suppliers and/or distributors in the area?

S/N Types of inputs Supply Distribution
Name of Amount Name of Amount
Supplier supplied Distributor Distributed
I Improved seed
II Fertilizer
III Agro-chemicals
IV Farm tools
 Is the farmers’ fertilizer application rate per hectare optimal? If not, what would you
recommend/ suggest?________________________________________________
 Describe the timeliness of inputs supply. Describe the farmers’ needy time and the actual supply
time of execution.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________
97
 Which traditional and/or improved soil fertility improvement practices are being used in the
area? What is the quantity used per hectare, total hectares covered in the last cropping year and
the number of households used this? Describe.
 Compost
___________________________________________________________________
 Farmyard manure?
__________________________________________________________________
 Mulch: _____________________________________________________________
 Green maturing: ______________________________________________________
 Agro-forestry ________________________________________________________
 Others specify if any: _______________________________________________
 Which of the above practices is on the increasing and meeting farmers’ interest?
Describe.__________________________________________________
 Is the current inputs supply sufficient for farmers’ for their crop production requirements?
Yes/No, if no, what is the reason? How could farmers’ maximize/improve their
utilization?______________________________________
 Do farmers’ have sufficient local materials (livestock, etc.) to produce organic materials? If not,
how will be the problem addressed? Are there areas that can be improved that would supply?
How? Describe.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________
 Do farmers’ carry out soil and water conservation activities on their farmlands? Describe the
type and quantity of SWC structures.
________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________
xv) Pest Control and Weeding

 What are the major and economically important crop pests that prevail in the area? How pests
are controlled? What methods do you use?
Major insect pests, diseases, weeds, etc of the area
Kind of pests Local Host crop Time of Type of Control measure/method
Name of occurrence Cultural/physical/ Chemical
pests Traditional/ Botanical
Insect Pests
Kind of pests Local Host crop Time of Type of Control measure/method

Name of occurrence Cultural/physical/ Chemical
pests Traditional/ Botanical
Plant Diseases
98
Parasitic &
non-parasitic
weeds
Domestic
animals
Wild life
xvii. Crop marketing

 What are the main crops for sale?
 Cereals: __________
 Pulse crops:_____________________________________
 Oil crops: ______________________________________
 Vegetable: __________________________________
 Fruit crops: ____________________________________
 Fiber crops: ____________________________________
 Others: _______________________________________
 Are there specific perennial cash crops farmers’ grow and sell? Yes /No. If yes, which ones are
these?________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
 For which crops prices are satisfactory and which ones low?
 Satisfactory: ________________________________________
 Low: ____________________________________________________________
 How is the accessibility of the market? Are markets accessible throughout the year? Describe
(ask questions to women in particular).
________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
 Do you think that if crop production increases farmers would have no difficulty finding new
markets? What kind of outlet do you have and/or foresee? (Explain by
gender)__________________________________________________________
 Are you satisfied with the marketing infrastructure in farmers’ village/nearest market town?
(Assembly points, market facilities, etc.). Explain by gender. _______________
xiii. Harvesting, Handling and Storage of food grains/other products
99
 Is crop harvesting a problem in the area? Yes/No. If yes, explain the reasons.
___________________________________________________________________________
 Are post-harvest losses high? Yes/No. If yes, explain.
 How much is approximately estimated as loss in post-harvest losses (in % and quintal for the
main crops)? _________________________
 What precautions are taken? ______________________
 What types of storage structures do farmers commonly use?
 Explain the name of storage structures corresponding to the crop type they commonly store?
__________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
 Is the structure indoors or out door or both? _____________________________
 Do farmers have sufficient storage capacity/structures? Yes/No. If yes,

 Are stores in good conditions? ___________________________________
 Are pests/insects affecting food grains stored? ___________________________
 What are the losses expected in storages (qt or %)? ________________________
 Which crops are mostly affected in storage? ______________________________
 How do you prevent infestation (traditional or new methods)? _____________
xix. Labor supply

 Is labor a constraint in the area? Yes /No. If yes,
 for which type of crops and agricultural practices ________________________
 What is the role of women in the various tasks? __________________________
 What months of the year is labor a constraint? _______________________________

 Why? ____________________________________________________________
 Which month is the slack period for:-
 Female: ____________________________________________________________
 Male: _____________________________________________________________
 Do farmers hire people during peak period of activities? Yes/No. if yes,
 For which type of activities? __________________________________________
 For how long? ______________________________________________
 How much do they pay per day per person? ____________________________
 Is the payment the same for male and female workers? ____________________
Extension and Training
 What type of extension system is followed in the area? Explain. _______________
 How many extension workers are assigned in the project area (kebele/woreda)? __________
 Do the SMS groups support the extension activities strongly? Yes/No. If yes,
 How frequent they support? __________________________________________
 Do you think that a strong agricultural extension services are being provided to farmers? (i.e., in
fertilizers use or applications, advantages of improved seeds, use of chemicals, compost
preparation, different agronomic practices, physical and biological soil Conservation measures,
irrigation, fertility management measures). Explain.
100
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
 Do you think that farmers’ are satisfied with the training and the extension services that they
have provided?
________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
 In which subject areas do farmers need training? Provide your suggestion.
________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
 Research and demonstrations
 Is there research institute working around the project area? ___________________
 On what aspects do they work? __________________________________________
 What types of crop varieties are verified/tested/demonstrated/used in the area? List the crop
varieties.
________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
 Labor and draught power

 Is there shortage of labor and draught power in the area? Explain. __________________
 Is there shortage/availability of farm tools (shovels, rakes, matchets, etc)?
Analysis Sheet for the crop production

Major constraints on increasing of crop production and productivity (by rank)? (Rainfed & irrigated).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Main recommendations or possible solutions regarding crop production:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
 What type of crops do you propose for the command area to be grown? Suggest in priorities?
 Wet seasons: ________________________________________________________
 Dry (irrigated): ______________________________________________________
 Suggest the proposed crops share both in the rain fed and irrigated systems (in %)?
 Rain fed :
____________________________________________________________________
101
 Irrigated:__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
What do you propose to be the irrigation working hour in the area? Why?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
102
103

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Bureau of Irrigation and Low Land Areas Development Qeha Diversion small scale Project

Amhara National Regional State

Feasibility Study and Detail Design

Volume III: Irrigation Agronomy Final Report

FEASIBILITY STUDY & DETAIL DESIGN REPORT STRUCTURE

 Volume I Watershed Management

 Volume II Engineering Geology

 Volume III Agronomy study Report

 Volume IV Engineering Design

 Volume V Socio Economy Study Report

 Volume VI Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

 Volume VII Financial and Economic Analysis

 Volume X Soil Survey Study

3.2.3. Intercropping ................................................................................................................... 16

4.8.1. Extension ......................................................................................................................... 52

LSDSW Lalibela study,design, supervision & works

SALIENT FEATURES OF THE IRRIGATION PROJECT

Project site elevation: 1955-1930 masl

Soil texture: Clay dominated

Net irrigable land for full irrigation farming: 180 ha

Net irrigable land for supplementary irrigation farming: 180 ha

Water abstraction system: River Diversion structure

Client: ANRS BoILAD

1.2.2. Specific Objective

1.3. Methodology of the Study

1.4. Scope of the Study

2. PROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION

2.2. Agro-Ecology and Climate Condition

Addis Zemen Rainfall Data 1997-2022

Figure 1: Average and 80% dependable rainfall at Addis Zemen station

Rainfall Coefficient Designation /Represent/

<0.6 Dry (represent a dry season/month)

2.2.3. Sunshine hours duration

2.2.4. Relative humidity

2.2.5. Wind speed

2.3. Command Area Characteristics

Figure 2. Slope map of Qeha irrigation project command area

Figure 3: Photo in Part Of Qeha Command Area Topography

2.4. Land Use System and Soil Characteristics

2.4.2. Soil Characteristics

2.5. Natural Vegetation Cover

3. PRESENT AGRICULTURAL SITUATION

3.2. Cropping System

3.2.1. Shifting Cultivation

3.2.4. Crop Rotation

Table 3: The existing crop rotation patterns of the project area

3.3. Crops Production and Yields

S/N Crop type Cropped Area Productivity(qt/ Production(qt)

Source: Libo Kemkem Woreda Agricultural Development Office

3.3.2. Existing Irrigated Agriculture and Practices

Table 7: Irrigation crops production in the Berkuta kebele, 2022

3.3.3. Experience of Private and State Agricultural Enterprises

3.4. Cropping Practices and Use of Technologies

3.4.1. Pre-Harvest Practices

3.4.1.2. Planting /Sowing

3.4.1.3. Crop protection practices

Source: project kebele Agricultural Development Office.

Source: Berkuta Kebele Agricultural Development Offices.

3.5. Farm Inputs Supply and Utilization Experiences