This report examines specific water harvesting systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Case studies of thirteen systems from six different countries are presented, and conclusions are drawn under the headings of techniques and engineering, production, socio-economic and project management aspects. A number of projects throughout the region, set up in the 1980's, have included water harvesting components. However, there is a wide range of techniques, approaches and costs - and the impact of these projects varies considerably. The majority of systems introduced are for crop production, but there are examples of water harvesting to establish trees in dry areas and for rehabilitation of grazing land also. The need for voluntary participation in all stages of project development is highlighted. It is evident that without this participation there is little or no chance of widespread adoption. The importance of indigenous systems of water harvesting, and their potential role as a base for planning, is stressed in the conclusions.

This report examines specific water harvesting systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Case studies of thirteen systems from six different countries are presented, and conclusions are drawn under the headings of techniques and engineering, production, socio-economic and project management aspects. A number of projects throughout the region, set up in the 1980's, have included water harvesting components. However, there is a wide range of techniques, approaches and costs - and the impact of these projects varies considerably. The majority of systems introduced are for crop production, but there are examples of water harvesting to establish trees in dry areas and for rehabilitation of grazing land also. The need for voluntary participation in all stages of project development is highlighted. It is evident that without this participation there is little or no chance of widespread adoption. The importance of indigenous systems of water harvesting, and their potential role as a base for planning, is stressed in the conclusions.

This report examines specific water harvesting systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Case studies of thirteen systems from six different countries are presented, and conclusions are drawn under the headings of techniques and engineering, production, socio-economic and project management aspects. A number of projects throughout the region, set up in the 1980's, have included water harvesting components. However, there is a wide range of techniques, approaches and costs - and the impact of these projects varies considerably. The majority of systems introduced are for crop production, but there are examples of water harvesting to establish trees in dry areas and for rehabilitation of grazing land also. The need for voluntary participation in all stages of project development is highlighted. It is evident that without this participation there is little or no chance of widespread adoption. The importance of indigenous systems of water harvesting, and their potential role as a base for planning, is stressed in the conclusions.

« "Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond, Volume 1' is the first book in a three-volume guide that teaches you how to conceptualize, design, and implement sustainable water-harvesting systems for your home, landscape, and community. The lessons in this volume will enable you to assess your on-site resources, give you a diverse array of strategies to maximize their potential, and empower you with guiding principles to create an integrated, multi-functional water-harvesting plan specific to your site and needs. »--

Dry areas suffer not only from limited rainfall but also ‘natural leakage’—90% of rainwater is lost directly or indirectly, and is unavailable for agriculture or domestic use. Water harvesting is a low-cost, easy-to-use, environmentally-friendly way to recover a large part of this lost water. How does water harvesting work? Which sites or areas are best suited and how can these areas be identified? How to design, build and maintain a water harvesting system tailored to local needs? How can water harvesting contribute to combating land degradation, enhancing food security and adapting to climate change? This book provides the answers. The book is based on many years of research, training and development by three of the world’s leading experts in water management and agriculture. It is authoritative, comprehensive, and easy to read, containing practical examples, many illustrations and little jargon. This volume will be of great interest to researchers, development workers, farmers, policymakers, students of the natural sciences—in fact, anyone interested in efficient, sustainable management of water resources and agriculture.

Water harvesting is gaining more and more recognition as the sustainable and resilient alternative to other water supply options. It is economically viable, socially compatible and environmentally friendly. Water harvesting has proven to be a robust solution to overcome or reduce water shortages all over the world. To apply this in a sustainable and effective way, it is important to understand exactly where it can be applied to make full use of its potential. The Handbook of Water Harvesting and Conservation: Case Studies and Application Examples is the most comprehensive, up-to-date and applied casebook on water harvesting and conservation yet published. The editors bring together the many perspectives into a synthesis that is both academically-based and practical in its potential applications. The Handbook of Water Harvesting and Conservation: Case Studies and Application Examples will be an important tool for education, research and technical works in the soil, water and watershed management area, and will be highly useful for drought strategy planning, flood management and adaptation to climate change in all urban, agricultural, forest, rangeland areas.