Agricultural Use of Reclaimed Water - Experiences in Jordan

Due to extreme water scarcity Jordan is integrating reclaimed water resources in the national water management system. This paper describes the recent framework conditions for reclaimed water use in agriculture in Jordan, with a focus on the central and southern Jordan Valley. The possible impacts of lower quality irrigation water on soil, groundwater, crops and human health are considered while appropriate guidelines and monitoring proposals are being developed. Testing of the guidelines and implementation of the monitoring systems have started with the final purpose of integrating them into the Jordanian standard and legal system and thus ensuring safe food for consumers and protection of the environment.