A Futures Study Analysis of Key Stakeholders and Actors in Agricultural Water Security

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Crop Sciences, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari, Iran.

2 Faculty of Economics and Agricultural Development, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

10.22059/jwim.2024.377399.1164

Abstract

Climate change and water crisis are critical issues impacting the agricultural sector, particularly in regions like Mazandaran province. Effective water security in agriculture hinges on identifying key players and variables in water management, as water scarcity is often linked to how water resources are managed. A diverse array of actors, from governmental and non-governmental institutions to individual farmers, plays a significant role in managing the water crisis. This study aimed to analyze the key actors and variables influencing agricultural water security in Mazandaran province, employing a futures studies perspective to anticipate and mitigate potential challenges. Data for this research were collected using a combination of questionnaires and in-person interviews, targeting a sample of 16 experts and specialists selected through purposive sampling. The analysis of variables and actors was conducted using the Mactor methodology, which focuses on pairwise comparison to determine the influence and competitiveness of each actor and variable. The results revealed that the most influential and competitive actors in agricultural water security are the Management and Planning Organization, Water User Associations, the Regional Water Company, and the Agricultural Jihad Organization. In contrast, the Rural Water and Wastewater Company was identified as the least influential actor in this context. Additionally, among the variables impacting water security, the most significant were quantity and diversity of water resources, good governance and management of agricultural water, land zoning and defining appropriate cropping patterns, development of modern irrigation systems and technologies. Empowering farmers to enhance their resilience and adaptability to climate changes can improve water management and strengthen water security.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Water and Irrigation Management
Volume 14, Issue 4
February 2025
Pages 879-919

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