Irrigation program North Macedonia

active

The aim of the programme is to sustainably increase agricultural production and productivity in the selected irrigation perimeters through improved availability and efficient use of water resources. This is intended to contribute to improving the living conditions of the rural population in the programme area (development policy objective of the FC measure). The programme in the Vardar river basin includes, on the one hand, the expansion of the irrigation system by around 1,575 hectares of net irrigable area in the municipality of Valandovo. On the other hand, the irrigation of around 4,000-5,000 hectares of land in the municipalities of Veles and Chaska is to be improved by financing modern irrigation systems, among other things. Thirdly, the programme includes the rehabilitation of the Pepelishte irrigation system and the construction of the Konjsko irrigation system. As part of the accompanying measure, the programme executing agency will be strengthened in the implementation of the project, as will the local operators, especially with regard to operation and maintenance. It also includes professional training and advice for the target group in the areas of improved irrigation and cultivation methods, climate-resilient variety selection, sales and marketing, as well as the common EU agricultural policy.