Sharjah24: The Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock (SDAL) was briefed on the preliminary results of a study conducted by the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) on the suitability of wheat seed varieties to the salinity levels of water and soil, as well as the climatic conditions in the country. This collaboration aims to promote scientific and research cooperation between both parties.
During the meeting, Dr. Khalifa Musabeh Ahmed A Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (SDAL), met with the ICBA scientific team led by Dr. Tarifa Al-Zaabi, the Director of the Center. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of high salinity irrigation water on crop growth and productivity, in order to provide appropriate recommendations for salinity levels based on the variety used. The preliminary results showed that the varieties planted by the ministry are able to withstand climate changes and are suitable for the country's conditions and water quality.
Al-Tunaiji stated that the scientific and research collaboration with the ICBA, through its pioneering work in developing high-nutrient crops that are able to tolerate harsh environments, contributes to providing data that supports sustainable agricultural projects, thereby enhancing food security. He added that the UAE's environment and water resources pose significant challenges to the agricultural sector, but through sustainable farming practices, successful experiments have been conducted in Sharjah despite the challenges imposed by several factors.