A New Step in Conserving Water and Land Resources: New Equipment to Start Operating in Dashoguz and Lebap

A significant step has been taken toward introducing innovative technologies into Turkmenistan's agriculture. Within the framework of the joint Aral Sea region project implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), specialized laser land leveling equipment was officially handed over. Two sets of laser levelers were provided to the following institutions to enhance the agricultural potential of the regions: - The Hakimlika of Saparmurat Turkmenbashy district in Dashoguz province; - The "Obahyzmat" production association of Darganata district in Lebap province. This equipment will be used to demonstrate innovative methods on pilot plots and to widely disseminate this positive experience among local farmers. High-precision leveling of fields using automated laser systems provides several strategic benefits for agriculture: - Irrigation water is distributed evenly across the field, reducing water loss; - Land waterlogging is prevented, and soil salinity levels are decreased; - Proper management of soil and water resources significantly increases crop yields. Beyond the delivery of the technology, special training workshops were organized to ensure its effective use. Farmers and specialists from Dashoguz and Lebap provinces learned the principles of operation and technical maintenance of the equipment through practical sessions. This initiative is an important part of the large-scale efforts aimed at restoring degraded lands in the Aral Sea basin, preserving ecosystems, and improving the living standards of the regional population.