Seasonal forage cultivation in Najran boosts local production, livestock sector
Najran expands seasonal forage crop cultivation, leveraging its agricultural strengths to enhance food security and support livestock production.
Najran is expanding its seasonal forage crop cultivation, utilizing the region's agricultural strengths to bolster food security and bolster the livestock sector. This initiative leverages the diverse agricultural resources found in Najran, enabling farmers to grow a variety of crops throughout the year. The forage cultivation covers an area of approximately 990 hectares, with an annual production output of 16,000 tons.
The primary crops cultivated for this purpose are alfalfa and sorghum. Alfalfa is particularly valued for its high nutritional content, making it an ideal choice for livestock feed. Sorghum, on the other hand, is well-adapted to the region's arid climate and low water availability, contributing to a growing local demand for this crop.
Najran has made significant strides in improving forage crop production methods. Farmers are increasingly adopting modern agricultural technologies that are specifically designed to suit the region's environmental conditions and water limitations. These advancements include sophisticated irrigation management systems, careful selection of crops, and optimal planting schedules. By implementing these techniques, the sector's productivity and sustainability have seen substantial improvements.
Mureeh bin Sharaeh Al-Shahrani, the Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Najran, emphasized the critical role that forage cultivation plays in both the agricultural and livestock sectors. He stressed that monitoring this activity is essential due to its direct impact on overall sector performance.
Al-Shahrani pointed out that achieving agricultural sustainability is now a fundamental pillar of development in this field. This requires striking a delicate balance between maximizing production levels and safeguarding natural resources, particularly water. He highlighted the importance of expanding and refining solutions and technologies that enhance irrigation efficiency while minimizing waste.
Al-Shahrani stressed that comprehensive guidance programs, awareness campaigns, and the encouragement of modern farming practices are all essential in promoting efficient resource utilization and ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural activities in the region.
Written by urgent.news from Ajel English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
