NORTHEAST SMALL SCALE IRRIGATION

RTG sector agencies will implement the project with U.S. long-term technical assistance. The delivery systems of seven of the region"s 200 tanks will be rehabilitated. This will include the design and construction of effective on-farm distribution systems (farm ditches and structures), as well as the topographical surveys, soils classification, and land preparation needed for system design and utilization. Main and lateral canals will be improved or extended upon consultant recommendation; and lining, culverts, drainage, inlets, turnouts, and checks will be provided to ensure better water control. In some cases, tank embankments will be rehabilitated to ensure their safety. A laterite-surfaced roadway will be constructed along main and lateral canals to provide operation and maintenance access roads. On-the-job training will be provided to personnel from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DOAE) and the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) working onsite. Improved methods for managing and maintaining water delivery systems will be tested, and 14 DOAE extension agents will be trained to assist farmers and farmer user associations in this regard. Farmer field trips to successful irrigation projects, approximately two per site, will also be financed. To increase coverage of farm families by DOAE extension agents, task forces of specialists will be available at project sites. Demonstration plots for appropriate crops and farming practices will be established, and promising varieties and techniques will be distributed to farmers by DOAE extension agents. A crop insurance system will be established to encourage farmers to use the new techniques. The Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives will use mobile teams to provide credit to farmers, especially for cash crops during the dry season. Finally, DOAE will contract with selected interested farmers to grow registered vegetables and other seeds.