Extension Education for Dryland Cropping Systems in Iraq.

Iraq, formerly known as Mesopotamia, is the birthplace of agriculture. The recent war and instability has affected the whole country, including its agricultural system. To support revitalization of the Iraqi agricultural system, USDA has funded a consortium of five universities (Washington State University, University of California-Davis, New Mexico State University, Utah State University, and Texas A&M taking the lead) to provide training to extension personnel from Iraq. Each institution had a specific theme. Washington State University is responsible for training in dryland cropping systems and developed five sessions. Questionnaires distributed in every session helped assess future training needs and enhance our understanding of extension and dryland cropping systems needs in Iraq. All Iraqi governorates have similar needs for agricultural rehabilitation. There is great demand for training, technology, seed and fertilizers since current access to resources is insufficient to satisfy the country’s requirements. In addition to supplying these inputs and equipment, later trainings have introduced methods for low-input agriculture more suitable to their needs and available resources. Training for the use of appropriate low and high technology methods will help Iraq to rebuild and sustain its agricultural infrastructure.