Landscape-based integrated water resources management in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic

Abstract

This study examines the potential for integrated water resource management in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Azerbaijan. Water shortage and rainfall are calculated with data obtained from water observation station in districts, meteorology and irrigated agricultural fields. The scope of water shortage is visualised by means of geographical information systems based on land use analysis. The results showed that water demand is generally met by surface water resources across the country. In addition to drought, water shortages occasionally occur due to variations in seasonal rainfall and evaporation. The results also showed that the year 2008 had more severe drought conditions than 2004 and 2009, which was caused by low rainfall.