This report summarizes results from a large multi-partner project, Integrated watershed development
for food security and sustainable improvement of livelihood in Barani, Pakistan. The project (2007
to 2010) aimed to develop, demonstrate, and evaluate cost-effective technologies for monitoring
and use of water and land resources at watershed scale. It used an integrated approach combining
applied research, capacity building, and watershed improvement/rehabilitation through community

CropSyst is the crop growth model chosen as a decision tool for the Tadla Benchmark project. CropSyst is a daily time step simulation model. The model was developed to serve as an analytic tool to study the effect of cropping systems management on productivity and the environment. The model simulates the soil water budget, soil– plant nitrogen budget, crop canopy and root growth, dry matter production, yield, residue production, and decomposition. Management options include cultivar selection, crop rotation, irrigation, nitrogen fertilization, tillage operations, and residue management.

The best use of irrigation water is reflected in the strategic approach of the Ministry of Agriculture and the major research objectives of institutions working on sustainable irrigation management. Related research programs can be summarized as follows:
• crop water requirements;
• irrigation techniques, especially surface irrigation;
• irrigation scheduling; and
• soil and water quality as affected by irrigation and drainage.

The rangelands of West Asia and North Africa are the grazing grounds for the Bedouin with their flocks of sheep, goats and camels and are known as al Badia in the Middle East region. Average annual rainfall in the Badia ranges between 50 and 250 mm (Haddad 2006). Despite its scarcity, rainwater is generally poorly managed and much of it is lost through runoff and evaporation. To improve production in hese areas, there is a need for the sustainable management of natural resources – land and water (FAO 1983).

Climate change has led to more severe conditions throughout the world as well as in Morocco. In general, rainfall has declined and average temperatures have increased. These new rainfall patterns are threatening water supplies. Fluctuations and reductions in annual rainfall have led to severe and frequent droughts throughout the Central and West Asia and North Africa region. Consequently, water resources have become scarce. Increasing municipal and industrial demand for water has resulted in steadily decreasing allocations for agriculture.