"Wissenschaftliche Begleitmaßnahmen "Économie de l'Eau" des Einsatzes
von Hydrodyne in der Oasenbewässerung und im Landschaftsschutz
(Dünenfixierung)" (Kellner)
GTZ-Programm Integrierte Wasserwirtschaft, Algerien, Phase II 2007-2009
(Gestion Intégrée de l'Eau)", Komponente 3 "Gestion intégrée des
ressources en eau à l'oasis de Béni Abbès".

Integrated management of water resources in the oasis Béni Abbès --
Pedohydrological analysis of "Hydrodyne" for traditional irrigation
systems and sand dune stabilization

Abstract
In cooperation with the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) and
local partners in Algeria a possible solution for the problem of
irrigation efficiency is being studied. "Hydrodyne" is a biogenic super
absorbent with the potential to retain water in the soil by keeping it
available for plants and reduce evaporation losses of irrigation water.
It will be tested in different concentrations (0%, 1% and 4%) on
vegetables (carrots, onions) and apricots respectively. Soil water
content and climatological data will be logged continuously for a
complete monitoring of crop needs. Traditional irrigation techniques
will be applied to determine the direct influence of "Hydrodyne" on the
water use and to assure that the results can be easily implemented by
local farmers.
An experimental reforestation plot will be installed using traditional
techniques: a chequer-board pattern consisting of palm leaves and
adapted bushes and trees planted alongside. One half of the plants will
have 1% of "Hydrodyne" added to their substrate, the other half will be
planted in untreated substrate to determine the differences in growth by
the end of the project.