Description of practice

Micro-basins are formed by constructing a ridge around a cultivated area. They are highly efficient at storing water although any excess water cannot run off.

Examples of how to use micro-basins Further information
(see Note below)

AMP48 01

Vallerani system

In the Vallerani system a special tractor-pulled plough constructs micro-catchments combining traditional techniques of rainwater harvesting with mechanization for large scale land rehabilitation.

 

»WOCAT technology 1528

AMP48 02

Negarims

Negarims are V-shaped micro basins particularly constructed for fruit tree production in water-scarce areas. The tree is planted in the downstream corner of the basin, the rest of which serves as the catchment area.

 

»WOCAT technology 2842
»SSWM

AMP48 03

Water harvesting basins

1 m wide basins with a 2 m wide runoff area are constructed. The basins are mulched with either straw or stones. The runoff area is left bare and untilled to encourage development of a crust over which water runs into the basin.

 

»WOCAT technology 968


Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.