Agricultural Drainage: Toward an Integrated Approach (Final Report and Case Studies)

Drainage as a human intervention in the hydrological cycle affects many different functions of natural resource systems and thereby has multiple impacts on society. Global experience provides insight into some of these effects, positive and negative.

A two-year study was conducted by the World Bank's Agriculture and Rural Development Department - Water For Food Team within the framework of the Bank-Netherlands Partnership Program (BNPP) - Environment/Water Resources Management Window. The study included investigation and analysis of experience and lessons learned in six countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, Netherlands, and Pakistan.

The main outcome of the study was a Drainage Integrated Analytical Framework (DRAINFRAME) to look at and act upon agricultural drainage from an integrated natural resources (land and water) management perspective. The framework provides an opportunity for discussion and negotiation of trade-offs related to the different functions and values related to and influenced by drainage. DRAINFRAME is therefore a tool for integrated analysis and assessment of drainage interventions embedded in a participatory planning process.

Please contact the ESSD Advisory Service, attn: Drainage Advisor, with questions on this study.