The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has implemented a novel irrigation technique utilizing fish farming wastewater, significantly boosting date palm productivity across the Kingdom.
Recent research indicates that this method has a profound effect on soil nutrient concentration and enhances various characteristics of dates, ultimately improving their economic viability.
Conducted by a specialized team, the study, titled “The Impact of Using Fish Farm Wastewater on Palm Production”, shows that using wastewater from fish farms is a pioneering approach in the realm of sustainable agriculture. The organic matter and nutrients, particularly ammonia, contained in fish food residues and fish waste improve soil health and increase crop yield.
According to the findings, date palms irrigated with fish farming water exhibited a remarkable 26% increase in fruit weight, a 17% gain in length, and a 13% increase in diameter. Notably, the levels of key nutrients in the dates surged as well, with sugar conte
nt rising by 25%, zinc by 367%, manganese by 112%, copper by 9%, calcium by 15%, phosphorus by 42%, and iron by 162%.
This research aligns with a national initiative aimed at expanding applied agricultural research, a key component of the Kingdom’s transformation strategy.
The study estimates that the 362 fish farms in the Kingdom generate approximately 386 million cubic meters of wastewater annually. The strategic use of this wastewater for irrigating date palms has the potential to greatly enhance local date production and quality, thus contributing to sustainable agricultural practices, in line with the goals outlined in Vision 2030.
Furthermore, the study highlights the economic advantages associated with utilizing fish farming wastewater for irrigation, which include improved nitrogen and organic matter levels in the soil, reduced reliance on manufactured mineral fertilizers, conservation of water resources, increased farmer income, and promotion of the circular economy.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
