As the Khareef season sweeps across the Dhofar region, its benefits extend far beyond the obvious boost to tourism. This unique climatic phenomenon is proving to be a significant asset to the local agricultural sector, bringing numerous advantages that promote sustainability and prosperity.
Dr Ahmed al Shanfari, Director of Agricultural and Livestock Research in Dhofar, highlights the agricultural benefits of Khareef.
“The plants receive ample irrigation, pests and diseases are washed away, and an automatic greenhouse-like environment is created, aiding farmers,” Dr Ahmed said.
This season's favorable conditions also reduce issues like papaya mealybug infestations, creating a healthier environment for crops to thrive.
The increased visitor demand during Khareef provides local farmers with a larger market for their produce.
“Khareef offers local farmers a larger market due to increased visitor demand, motivating them to adopt new technologies and prepare for the next season,” said Dr Ahmed.
This economic incentive encourages farmers to innovate and improve their agricultural practices, ensuring a more productive and profitable harvest.
Dhofar Governorate enjoys many advantages and benefits during the season, especially for the agricultural sector. The climate, characterised by low temperatures and moderate humidity accompanied by rain drizzle, increases the efficiency of water availability and reduces the rate of transpiration and evaporation.
“This creates an ideal environment for vegetation cover, allowing crops and plants to enjoy rapid growth and abundant fruit production. Many farmers take advantage of this season to engage in rain-fed agriculture, growing local crops such as cucumbers, beans, and corn. Wild mushrooms are also harvested from valleys and mountain slopes and sold in local markets at reasonable prices,” said Dr Shanfari, who is also a specialist in Agrotechnology, Biotechnology and Plant Molecular Biology, at the Ministry of Agriculture.
Another crucial benefit of Khareef is the significant enhancement of groundwater recharge. Rainwater reduces the salinity rate in local farms and groundwater, which is used to irrigate farms for the rest of the year. This natural desalination process is vital for maintaining the fertility of the soil and ensuring the availability of fresh water for agricultural use.
The Khareef season is a boon for Salalah, significantly enhancing groundwater recharge and providing substantial benefits to agriculture. By improving irrigation, reducing pest infestations, and offering economic incentives, Khareef ensures the sustainability and prosperity of the Dhofar region's agricultural sector.
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