Irrigation Water Resources in Libya: Challenges and Potentials
摘要
Due to the difficult climatic conditions in Libya, which include low rainfall and high rates of evaporation, water is a valuable and scarce resource. Water shortage in Libya has become a serious problem that requires efficient and sustainable methods of use and conservation. The primary objectives of this chapter are to: (1) explore the complex dynamics of water scarcity and irrigation practices in Libya, (2) discuss the importance of the agricultural economy in the country and its dependence on groundwater resources for irrigation due to the lack of surface water options; and (3) examine water quality considerations for irrigation and diverse irrigation practices in the region and highlighting issues such as water losses, soil salinity, and low crop productivity. The results confirm the value of effective water management in the country, which includes groundwater modeling, determining the amount of water needed for crops, and increasing irrigation system effectiveness. It is impossible to overestimate the significance of efficient water management in Libya, especially given the country’s desert geography and few water supplies. Furthermore, the impact of climate change exacerbates the challenges faced by agricultural production in semi-arid regions such as Libya, and it is important to develop strategies to adapt to these changes.