Riyadh, February 20, 2024, The National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has initiated an extensive endeavor aimed at revitalizing 620,000 hectares of depleted land in Saudi Arabia. This ambitious project entails the implementation of innovative rainwater harvesting methods to enhance greenery across nine regions throughout the nation.
A meticulous approach will be adopted, encompassing a thorough examination of the viability of rehabilitation initiatives within Saudi Arabia's principal climatic zones: continental, coastal, and mountainous. This entails pinpointing target areas, selecting suitable rainwater harvesting methodologies, and delineating specific activities tailored to each region's unique characteristics.
To inform decision-making, NCVC will undertake comprehensive data gathering exercises, including the collection of climate and hydrological data, analysis of topographic and survey maps, and scrutiny of satellite imagery. Ground assessments will also be conducted, involving the collection of soil and water samples, field measurements, laboratory analyses, and the identification of drainage networks within focal basins.
Anticipated outcomes of this endeavor encompass an in-depth understanding of the root causes and severity of land degradation, an inventory of existing plant species and their populations, recommendations regarding appropriate plant species for restoration and optimal propagation techniques, estimations of seed or seedling requirements for designated areas, determination of optimal planting times, establishment of desired ratios between grazing-compatible and non-grazing plant species, as well as assessments of rainfall patterns, water needs, and cultivation zones. Additionally, tailored rainwater harvesting systems will be identified for each site to maximize effectiveness.
This initiative underscores NCVC's commitment to combat desertification and enhance environmental sustainability within Saudi Arabia, aligning seamlessly with the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. Recognizing rainwater harvesting as a pivotal strategy for water conservation, the project will leverage various techniques such as the construction of dams, reservoirs, cisterns, and wells to harness this valuable resource for future use.
