Evaluating amended water policies using whole-farm irrigation management in the context of risk

Abstract

Evaluating amended water policies using whole-farm irrigation management in the context of risk The European Water Frame Work Directive has established a legal framework to protect aquatic ecosystems. Against this background, the paper discusses a stricter regulation of water use for irrigation purposes. By means of an extended risk-programming approach, we examine the economic implications resulting from a reduction in water withdrawal permits and an increased charge for water withdrawals, using the example of a typical arable farm in the north-east of Lower Saxony. Based on irrigation field trials provided by the Chamber of Agriculture in Lower Saxony, we define production activities with regard to varying irrigation intensity. In contrast to increased charges for water withdrawals, a restriction of water withdrawal permits involves higher water savings and lower economic disadvantages for farmers. By using an adjusted cropping strategy and efficient irrigation management, the economic disadvantages, in particular for a moderate reduction of water withdrawal permits, can be partially mitigated.