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Towards a Eurasian Soil Partnership for
food security
and sustainable development
Collection of contributions received
Discussion from 26 August to 15 September 2013
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Table of Contents
Topic .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Contributions received ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
1. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov, Russian Federation, ECFS....................................................................................... 7
2. Prof. Sergey Kiselev Russian Federation, MSU ........................................................................................... 7
3. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan................................................................................................................. 7
4. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan................................................................................................................. 8
5. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research
Institutions (CACAARI) ............................................................................................................................................. 9
6. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, India .............................. 9
7. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, India ............................ 10
8. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation .................................................................................................. 11
9. Botir Dosov Uzbekistan, ..................................................................................................................................... 11
10. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 12
11. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 12
12. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 12
13. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research
Institutions (CACAARI) ........................................................................................................................................... 13
14. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 13
15. Mr. Roshan Babu Ojha, Nepal, Tribhuwan University, institute of agriculture and animal science
........................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
16. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 15
17. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research
Institutions (CACAARI) ........................................................................................................................................... 15
18. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 15
19. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 16
20. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 16
21. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research
Institutions (CACAARI) ........................................................................................................................................... 16
22. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of Natural
Resources...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
23. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of Natural
Resources...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
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24. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 17
25. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 18
26. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 19
27. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 19
28. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation ............................................................................................... 21
29. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation ............................................................................................... 21
30. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 21
31. Ms. Angela Dogotari, Republic of Moldova, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry ...... 22
32. Mr. Ivan Aidarov, Russian Federation, The Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS) 24
33. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, the National University of Water Economy and the Use of Natural
Resources...................................................................................................................................................................... 24
34. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 25
35. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 25
36. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 26
37. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 26
38. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 27
39. Dr. Alexander Kaigorodtsev, Kazakhstan, The S.Amanzholov East Kazakhstan State University 27
40. Prof. Seyed Kazem Alavipanah Iran (Islamic Republic of), University of Tehran ................... 27
41. Mr. Ivan Aydarov, Russian Federation, Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS)28
42. Alisher Tashmatov, Uzbekistan, CACAARI Executive Secretary ..................................................... 29
43. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 30
44. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 31
45. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 31
46. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan ............................................................................................................ 31
47. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 32
48. Prof. Alexander Sagaydak Russian Federation, State University of Land Use Planning ....... 33
49. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of Natural
Resources...................................................................................................................................................................... 33
50. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural Research
Institutions (CACAARI) ........................................................................................................................................... 34
51. Mr. Ronald Vargas, Italy, FAO........................................................................................................................ 34
52. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 35
53. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 36
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54. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 36
55. Vincenzo Lo Scalzo, Italy, AgoraAmbrosiana.......................................................................................... 36
56. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 37
57. Prof. Seyed Kazem Alavipanah Iran (Islamic Republic of), University of Tehran ................... 37
58. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 38
59. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 38
60. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 38
61. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University ....................................................... 39
62. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS ................................................................................... 39
63. Dr. Svetlana Ivanova, Russian Federation, International Plant Nutrition Institute ............... 40
64. Murod Ergashev, Tajikistan, Tajik Academy of Agricultural Sciences ......................................... 41
65. Dr. Shukhrat Mukhamejanov, Uzbekistan, Scientific Information Centre of the Inter-State
Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia ................................................................................. 42
66. Г-н Иван Айдаров, Russian Federation, Российская академия сельскохозяйственных наук
(РАСХН)......................................................................................................................................................................... 43
67. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra, India, Bihar Agricultural Universit......................................................... 43
68. Г-н Иван Айдаров, Russian Federation, Российская академия сельскохозяйственных наук
(РАСХН)......................................................................................................................................................................... 44
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Topic
Dear Colleagues,
Welcome to the Online Consultation “Towards a Eurasian Soil Partnership for food security and
sustainable development”, which will be held 26th August to 15th September 2013, in both Russian and
English.
This three-week online consultation is initiated by the Eurasian Center for Food Security (ECFS) in
collaboration with FAO’s Global Soil Partnership (GSP), FAO's Global Forum for Food Security and
Nutrition (FSN Forum) and the World Bank.
The ECFS was established by the Government of the Russian Federation at Moscow State University as
a follow up to the commitment made by G8 leaders, known as the L’Aquila Food Security Initiative, to
implement measures to improve world food security.
The Global Soil Partnership, a recent mechanism established by FAO aiming at consolidating joint
efforts of partners interested in the preservation, conservation and rehabilitation of soils as a finite
natural resource, foundation of ecosystem services and food production. It was a long-awaited step,
because for many decades the importance of soils for human well-being was underestimated. The
perception that soils are everywhere makes us overlook the fact that it is a non-renewable resource on
a human time-scale.
This E-consultation is inviting to contribute to the development of a joint platform of the Eurasian Soil
Partnership (EASP) for food security under the framework of the Global Soil Partnership. The GSP is
designed to be implemented through regional and/or sub-regional partnerships of regional nature,
based on common language, culture, physical location or other considerations. The priorities of each
region regarding soil resources depend on its own specific geographical, socioeconomic, and cultural
peculiarities that make it unique in the world.
The discussion is meant to engage in a constructive dialogue everyone interested in soil resources and
its different uses and applications, and will contribute to: a) the development of a joint platform for the
establishment of the regional Eurasian Soil Partnership for food security, b) to the identification of
priorities on soil resources for portraying potential actions towards the sustainable management of
soils in the Eurasian region that could be implemented by researchers, decision-makers, private
sector, NGOs and other stakeholders.
For a brief overview on the current status on the implementation of the GSP and the perspectives for
the EASP, we suggest to consult the background paper:

Towards a Eurasian Soil Partnership for food security and sustainable development
The discussion should consider the following main issues:
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Healthy soils greatly contribute to the sustainable production of nutritious food.
Food security in Eurasia region is closely connected to the status of soil health.
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
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The soil-water-energy nexus should be considered when designing any intervention. Soil
should be part of an interdisciplinary setting under the food security and sustainable
development agenda.
A regional trans-boundary mechanism that allows interaction and partnership towards the
sustainable management of soils is required.
In order to stimulate and enrich this discussion, we propose the following guiding questions:


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Are land degradation and climate change limiting factors to food security in the Eurasian
region, especially in Central Asia? How will these issues be addressed from the soil dimension?
How a sub-regional soil partnership should be structured in order to ensure food security and
sustainable development using an example of Central Asia?
What particular items related to soil management and conservation should be included in the
agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership?
The outcomes of the consultation will serve as the basis for the discussion at an International
Conference to be organized by the ECFS in autumn 2013. The results will also feed into the process for
the development of the Plans of Action for the GSP pillars, which is facilitated by the GSP Secretariat,
and to the successful creation of the community of practice of the ECFS in the Eurasian region.
We wish to thank you in advance for actively participating in this consultation and believe that your
participation and comments will prove to be very valuable and that both you and your organization
will benefit from the online-interaction with other experts in the region.
We look forward to an interesting and rich discussion.
Pavel Krasilnikov –Head of Land Resources Department (ECFS)
Ronald Vargas – Global Soil Partnership Secretariat (FAO)
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Contributions received
1. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov, Russian Federation, ECFS
Dear Colleagues,
We are pleased to welcome you to our forum and we hope that the discussion will be intense and
useful.
Dr Pavel Krasilnikov, ECFS, Russian Federation
2. Prof. Sergey Kiselev Russian Federation, MSU
Land degradation and climate change undoubtedly affect the food security of the Eurasian region,
Central Asia, and the entire world. Although the general trends are known, the devil is in the details.
And they require both a study and a response.
First of all, it is necessary to purposefully collect, process and analyze information. The data for
individual sites, zones, countries should be consolidated into the picture within the whole region. On
this basis a correct and consistent policy may be elaborated. This policy, in many cases, needs to be
agreed upon in such fields as the use of water resources in the neighbouring regions, trade measures
under extreme climatic conditions, the use of food aid, the spread of modern technology, pest control,
etc.
Currently, most of these issues are raised at the political level in a critical situation. There must be a
fundamental long-term approach and a system of measures.
3. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
On the third question: What are the specific issues related to the management and conservation of soil
resources which should be included in the agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership?
Dear colleagues! Many people mistakenly understand that the restoration of soil fertility means
introducing a large amount of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and other substances, which increase
productivity. The application of effective plant protection products and fertilizers, as well as the
increase in genetically modified products has increased the production and improved food security in
a number of countries. Along with these achievements, this approach has led to a significant
deterioration in the quality of products.
An alternative to this approach is the production of organic agricultural products, which is based on
the methods of crop production without chemical fertilizers, without pesticides, and feeding animals
with grain and grass grown without chemical additives. Markets of the organic agricultural products in
the world are growing with ever faster pace. For example, the turnover of organic food in the United
States from 1997 to the present has increased eightfold. The share of organic food products in the food
market was 0.8% in 1997, and 5.8% in 2011. The annual rate of growth in sales of organic products in
the UK amounts to almost 10%. UK Government plans to meet the demand of the population in
ecological food for at least 70% by domestic production by 2011 (for the moment, the figure is about
45%). Due to the lack of funding, Kyrgyzstan has a relatively high share of agricultural products grown
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with minimal use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Animals are fed on natural pastures. This
opens up additional opportunities for Kyrgyzstan to organize production, oriented at the segment of
environmentally friendly products.
In this regard, our long-term strategic goal is to transform Kyrgyzstan in one of the world's leading
organic agriculture, i. e. to ensure the transition to the production of green agricultural products,
ensuring sustainable development of the economy, public health, and conservation of environment.
The soil and its fertility play the main role in this respect. In accordance with the commitments of the
Kyrgyz Republic to ensure food security taken within the framework of the Rome Declaration, the
recommended level of security should amount to not more than 16% of imported products in the total
consumption. Taking into account the balance of goods ensuring food security, the import of this food
group in the total consumption is now about 25%. Currently, the level of provision of Kyrgyzstan with
the basic food from its own production is: in grain products - by 62.5%; vegetable oil - by 30.9%; sugar
- by 17%; meat - by 64.5%; fruits and berries - by 63.8%. This poses a threat of the country's high
dependence on the situation in world food markets, as well as on the foreign policy of states-exporters
of food to our country. The country now has no monitoring and early warning systems of negative
trends in the food market, both in the world and within the country. It is necessary to recognize that
the control over food safety and compliance with technical requirements is low, which poses a threat
to the health and lives of the national population. The expansion of foreign economic relations of
Kyrgyzstan has led to an increase in the import of a variety of agricultural products and processed
foodstuff. At the same time, the share of genetically modified and counterfeit goods is increasing, some
of which cause direct harm to human health or do not possess the qualities corresponding to labelling.
The above issues should be included in the agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership.
4. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
On the first question: Do the land degradation and climate change serve as factors that limit food
security in the Eurasian region, particularly in Central Asia? How will these issues be addressed in
terms of soil parameters?
Dear colleagues! Yes, of course, in the race for supremacy in the international market of agricultural
products each year the land and soils are degraded. The gradual effects of climate change will
contribute to this. All these factors limit food security in almost all regions of the globe. How to fight
this? It will be hard to fight the global climate change, as it requires effective appeals and actions on a
global scale. Such as the development of specific mechanisms of action, the establishment of the
prohibition regime, the global environmental services, etc. Those damaging the environment must pay
a huge amount of tax / penalty for such violations, comparable to the size of damage. Today, it is
almost impossible for the state to make farmers plant one or another culture, as more than 90% of
irrigated land are directly owned by private farmers. Farmers produce the culture which could
provide them with maximum profit. It's no secret that every year, the soil of land belonging to some
farmers is exhausted and degraded. And this is due to the fact that farmers do not follow simple
measures of agricultural technologies, such as rotation. The land degradation can be controlled locally.
For example:
• In order to maintain and improve soil fertility by using the principles of organic farming, it is
necessary to introduce the grain-grass crop rotation, to expand the surface of the perennial legumes
and legume crops for grain, to produce biohumus, organic-mineral compost and compost from organic
household waste.
• For gentle cultivation of the soil, it is necessary to develop and implement the methods for
subsurface and minimum, as well as no-till farming.
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• To provide protection from weeds and pests, it is necessary to develop new technologies ensuring
the creation of unfavourable conditions for the growth of weeds, as well as to create shelterbelts.
• For harvesting and processing it is necessary to use equipment that minimizes the negative impact
on the soil.
• It is necessary to revive the grass cultivation: it will not only improve the forage yield, but also
increase the phytomeliorative and agro-technical conditions of soil. For example, among all the
legumes alfalfa and sainfoin possess the most potent nitrogen-fixing qualities. Alfalfa is able to
accumulate at least 250 kg of readily available nitrogen per 1 ha, and in favourable moisture
conditions up to 400 kg. Well developed alfalfa herbage on the second or third year of life accumulates
in the arable horizon 8-12 t / ha of root mass and crop residues, which in terms of the content of
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients are equivalent to the introduction of 40-60 t of
manure per hectare. Depending on the growing conditions, alfalfa and sainfoin are capable to restore
from 0.5 to 1.5 tons of humus per hectare, providing its deficit-free balance. In addition to that, the
long-term continuous coverage of the surface of the soil by plants alfalfa and sainfoin regulates
stormwater and melt water runoff and prevents the soil from water and wind erosion.
Matraim Zhusupov - FAO expert on agriculture and water management, Kyrgyzstan
5. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural
Research Institutions (CACAARI)
Hello, dear colleagues and organizers of e-consultation.
I would like to note the following:
1. In the circumstances prevailing at the present time, when agriculture and natural resource
management are fundamental areas to support sustainable development, taking into account the
projected population growth and the effects of climate change - where the various components,
problems and niche agriculture, food security and the environment are interconnected and should be
treated as an integrated / holistic system in which the presence of a "weak link" may adversely affect
the efficiency of the entire system. As we are all aware, "soil" both in the direct (agricultural) and in
the wider (economic) sense, is one of the fundamental "links" of agricultural production and food
security.
2. The creation of a Sub-Regional / Eurasian Soil Partnership is an important step in the direction of
consideration, discussion and solution of the land degradation problem , as a part of an integrated
system, including “management of natural resources - agriculture - food security.”
3. The basic document Towards a Eurasian Soil Partnership for food security and sustainable
development is of special interest in terms of both information and discussion. It contains constructive
suggestions. And so, for more focused discussions, I would like to submit my following comments on
the content of the basic document, as well as on matters arising from and related to it, which will be
announced by other colleagues.
6. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, India
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Soil is a sandwich between lithosphere and atmosphere forming a natural resource, requiring virtually
no rest, if managed optimally. Interestingly, soil is the lowest boundary of entire atmosphere exc;uding
the portion covered with ocean/water. All interactions with incoming radiation are subject to ultimate
interactions with soil, but our knowledge to this is scanty.
There is need to develop global initiatives to discover tools as indicators of global change through
corresponding changes in soil. I have proposed and established "Photopedogenesis" that may be used
as an indicator of climate change, but it is qualitative. The diurnal thermal change (in a fabricated
column) of soil (pedon) may be another means, but it under validation. In terms of food security, the
vital contribution of soil has been overlooked globally.
FAO has always tried to sensitize the specialist persons through relevant technical publication viz
Land Evaluation, Soil Degradation, Soil Classification, Land use Planning etc. There is need to obey the
principles as outlined in similar system/FAO, but virtually such approach is by and large distorted in
many countries to the best of my knowledge. Soil by itself is a foundation to work for food, water and
ecology (air) as defined in its critical zone concept (IUSS).
For food security, we have to sustain the soil. Another biggest problem is soil sealing/shrinkage. If we
use soil for non-farming activities for building construction, we are sealing soil for not to grow crops
and thus stop food production. If a hectare of soil is sealed, we stop the yield of approx. 50 quintals of
grain/year and thus cause insecurity of food for at least 25 persons in a country like India. Such use of
soil in non-farming activities is common in many countries including India. There must be legal ban
and UNO must take initiative to such vital issue. As a Soil Scientist, I am very much grieved and I wish
to have a Global Initiative.
7. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, India
In order to ensure quality food security in Eurasian countries, our efforts must be well planned on
scientific footing, wherein soil stands first and foremost in decision making option.
A healthy soil recommended after due assessment may give almost 80% response to the
recommended practices (inputs). Remaining 20 % response relates to unseen pest & disease incidence
and disastrous events. The FAO is credited to develop the outlines/methodologies for soil/land
evaluation, which may be applied with necessary modification/revision on site specific basis.
Currently, our efforts is mostly confined to top soil (0-15 cm or 0-20 cm) linking its fertility (NPK, pH,
EC including some micronutrients and amendment like gypsum/lime without evaluating the whole
soil unit (pedon), which creates a big hurdle and challenges the sustainability in a big way. As a result,
there are problems like multinutrient deficiencies, factor productivity etc.
Soil in its horizontal dimension forms a sandwich between lithosphere and atmosphere and so is the
lowest boundary of entire earth's atmosphere excluding water cover or ocean. It is natural and does
not form any political/administrative boundary, but surely maintain a unique continuum across the
globe. It is a resource in three dimensions (pedon) to benefit our food, water and air (critical zone)
besides interacting with ultimate outcome of atmospheric environment and radiation. Soil in present
context is being used as an enterprise of Corporate Sector, wherein soil may be accepted directly as a
foodstuff, cosmetics, detergent, pottery, amendment etc. An agricultural soil seems to be an open
uterus for growth and nourishment of plant species, because it is the foundation. Besides, soil is a huge
laboratory for physical, chemical, bio/photochemical, microbiological, electrical, magnetic
phenomenon. A land with soil can never be a waste and its productivity varies from minimum
(approaching zero) to as high as 100.
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Soil Scientists of the world must sit together at a common platform to formulate a common soil policy
in a big way, wherein agricultural activities by respective specialists (crop scientists, horticulturists,
pathologists, farm managers) can be started only after receiving a bonafide prescription recommended
by a soil scientist in prescribed format (covering stepwise information like potential soil productivity
in association with limitation/improvement options, landuse suitability in specific set or rotation,
fertility status/soil health followed by recommended doses of nutrients/amendments).
Being a natural resource almost like sun (which is free from human interference in any way), soil does
not require any rest (if managed purposefully) and it can be exploited for continuous cultivation.
In view of this, the concept of conservation agriculture is the most remunerative option, which simply
implies to keep the soil covered with vegetation (or residues under drought) round the year following
four basic principles viz (i) least or no physical disturbances, (ii) suitable crop rotation based on
suitability, (iii) identification of cover crops between two main crops in rotation based on indigenous
knowledge and (iv) special care for weed control.
The planning and execution of CA need careful operations and its success story, if truly achieved,
certainly ensures:
(a) Quality food security
(b) Enriched sustainability of soil, and
(c) Reduced greenhouse gas (CO2) emission leading to carbon trading in a big way.
8. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation
Dear Colleagues,
I am grateful for the views expressed and encouraged by active participation from the first day of econsultation. I thank Prof. Kiselev and Dr. Dosov for approaching the soil partnership from the
political and economic points of view. This is exactly what is missing in today's agricultural and
resource studies. Water and soil are generally considered as an inexhaustible resource, which is
completely untrue. I totally agree with Prof. Kiselev that the rush approach to natural resources still
prevails, when they are remembered only in case of their critical shortage; indeed, there is a real need
in a long-term balanced policy on land resources management. I really liked the idea of Dr. Dosov that
the issue of land degradation should be discussed not in itself, but as a component of an integrated
system, which includes both the resource management and food security issues.
9. Botir Dosov Uzbekistan,
I would like to support the opinion of colleagues that:
The problem of the climate change is global, while land degradation can be controlled locally using
targeted technology (Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan). Adoption and approval of the measures, the
introduction of appropriate technology requires careful planning (Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra, India),
and the identification and coordination of relevant / targeted interventions and approaches should be
based on the principle of expediency, which requires to organize the collection, processing and
analysis of information on individual sites, zones, countries that should represent the picture of the
whole region (Prof. Sergey Kiselev), while "a systematic and carefully planned and coordinated
approach" is very important.
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In this case, I want to emphasize that these initiatives can be carried out within the framework of the
"Eurasian Soil Partnership (EASP)" as a regional network of the Global Soil Partnership (GSP) of FAO.
This is a unique opportunity for collaboration between the various stakeholders in the "preservation
of the soil as the exhaustible natural resource." There is no need to create any alternative or
redundant platform for cooperation in the framework of the topic, and those adjacent to it. There is
also no need to repeat what GSP means and what goals and objectives it pursues.
However, I would like to stress the importance of one of the strategic objectives of the proposed EASP
"Formation and promotion of awareness among all types of stakeholders of the critical importance of
sustainable land use." In this connection we can offer a survey on the subject - how critical will be the
level of (economic, social) consequences of the situation "without concrete action," which could be the
basis for more attention and involvement of a wide range of stakeholders in land use issues.
10. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
On the second question: What should be the structure of the subregional soil partnership, to ensure
food security and sustainable development in Central Asia?
I think that the subregional structure of the soil partnership between the countries of Central Asia
should be the same as their good neighbour, trade-economic, scientific-technical and cultural relations.
They should constantly share their best practices, ideas and technologies. We often meet as brothers at
international events and seminars (specialists in water resources with their counterparts - watermen,
environmentalists with ecologists, soil scientists with their colleagues, etc.). It is not by accident that
we as watermen have a saying: "Watermen are not a profession but a nation." As the saying goes, every
profession has its own language, its traditions, its achievements, and on the other hand - its problems.
The soil scientists face about the same problems. Everywhere they face the problems of land
degradation, desertification, and reduced soil fertility.
We need to meet frequently. FAO is a good platform for such meetings, as it introduces international
experience in all Central Asian countries, and organizes regular workshops, seminars and other events
on all aspects of agriculture, including the conservation of soil fertility.
11. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
Comments to posts of Dr. Zhusupov:
I entirely agree with you that the issue of land degradation is extremely painful, especially in Central
Asia. And you seem to have correctly noticed that the problem is not that we do not have technology to
maintain soil fertility. The problem is how to "make" the landowner to use these technologies. I
allowed myself to use the word "make" in quotation marks. It seems to me that we are unlikely to
achieve much applying the fines and bans. Moreover, politicians will never use any measures that
infringe upon the farmers. Maybe we should think about how we can make soil conservation attractive
and profitable for farmers? I understand that this is not an easy task, but it makes sense to try to think
about how to
12. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
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On the comment of Prof. Mishra:
First of all, I am grateful to Prof. Mishra for the observations. Agriculture in India and Central Asia has
a lot in common. And in fact, the vast territories of both regions are covered by heavily degraded soils
that are cultivated for thousands of years. The consideration related to the need for the introduction of
crop rotation is very important; and this is especially true for regions with numerous fields occupied
by monoculture. I fully support the idea that no decision on the choice of crops and varieties, and on
the crop management in general can be taken without the advice of soil scientists. Unfortunately, it is
not the case so far: the recommendations of soil scientists have been ignored and not taken into
account, which leads to serious consequences for the quality of soil.
13. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural
Research Institutions (CACAARI)
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov, Dr. Zhusupov and other colleagues,
I would like to ask you a very specific question. The matter is that I am very interested in the questions
connected with the use of groundwater (perhaps there is a more correct term to be used). As far as I
understand, the groundwater is used as one of the local instruments for land management in the
conditions of water shortage (for irrigation). However, the fragmented and intensive use of
groundwater in some cases may lead to a variety of undesirable and unintended consequences.
Have there been any studies done or maps of groundwater created in recent years in the subregion of
Central Asia (CA), with forecasts / different scenarios of impact of groundwater on soil conditions in
different areas of Central Asia? Is there any agreement on a local, national and / or subregional level?
What is the legal basis for the use of groundwater? Is there any need to raise these issues? How these
issues are solved (experience) outside of our region?
14. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Soil Science vs Natural Resource Management. I truly love Soil, because:
(i) Soil is a three dimensional unit of natural resource forming the foundation of infinite number of
living beings/lives for their survival and nourishment through quality food, pure water, clean air
(agro-bio-hydro-ecology) and protective medicines even (penicillin).
(ii) Soil is a strange full of wisdom that needs further to be discovered to sustain our livelihood to full
satisfaction (gross happiness in natural environment).
(iii) Soils the lowest boundary of entire earth’s atmosphere (excluding ocean/rock outcrop) and
subject to ultimate interaction of incoming radiations reaching therein and forms a powerful platform
to monitor the diversified modes of changes including climate as a whole, but, we lack wisdom to
develop technologies as indicators. Photopedogenesis as a new chapter in Soil Science ( B.B.Mishra)
may form the beginning in this endeavor, but surely it needs completeness in quantitative terms in
days to come.
(iv) Soil is one’s destiny that controls not only our instinct and livelihood, but also the body colour,
intelligence and habits. Unfortunately, soil is virtually neglected particularly in its scientific mode and
so I often say that Soil Science is at its “youthful stage”.
www.fao.org/fsnforum/ecfs/en
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[email protected]
(v)
Soil has its unit called “Pedon”, but its application is hidden and we are conscious mainly
about top soil (0-25 cm) as if pedology is buried and pedon is dead in most of soil’s practical
applications across the globe. The present day soil science is confined mostly to edaphology.
(vi) Soil imposes heterogeneity even at micro level and its scientific classification could not have been
made acceptable to globe until now. Currently, we are looking for a common and acceptable system
called “Universal Soil Classification”.
(vii) Soil may be edible and eaten directly even by human beings (pregnant ladies, children, normal
ones) provided that it has edible quality, nutritive value, non-toxic and non-hygeinic elements like Pb
and so. Riverbed fine clays, kaolin and bentonite are preferred examples. Such soil type mixed with
vegetables in oil/salt is used in some part of globe.
(viii)
Soil is compared with sun as being a natural resource. It suffers from human interferences
greatly. Since sun never feels tired and gives light and heat to entire its system, soil should also need
no rest and maintain sustainability while being engaged.
(ix) As a natural resource (any physical unit of the environment that is subject to production), soil
cannot be a “waste”. So, there is need to evaluate the soil for potential productivity, identification of
limitations followed by improvement, then identification of suitability of land uses in specific rotation
(in case of annual crops) followed by fertility levels and fertilizer recommendation on soil test values.
This forms the true work calendar of a true soil scientist. Just with completion of such set rule, the soil
of the given land may be transferred to Agronomist or any other farm scientist for management of
suitable landuse (for example, crops).
(x) Thus, soil for a soil scientist is a natural resource forming a foundation as above (i), whereas soil
for agronomist or farm scientist is merely a means for management according to requirements of
landuse choice as already identified by soil scientist before transfer with valid recommendation. As
such, responsibilities of a soil scientist need to be well defined and demarcated.
(xi) In view of the above facts, it is a blunder to use natural resource management often as synonym to
soil science in all scientific fairness. As a soil scientist, I respect soil as the foundation of lives and it
requires cares. Once a soil is cared, it acts as a resource (having capability to produce) and that too is
natural.
15. Mr. Roshan Babu Ojha, Nepal, Tribhuwan University, institute of agriculture and animal
science
To ensure food security in Eurasian through soil sustainability is very vague and useful concept. Food
security is not only related to productivity but also affordability and accessibility of food to that
society.
Let me not talk about latter parameters of food security, i would rather like to focus on productivity.
Sustainability is management approach rather than soil or agronomic approach. Management strategy
in soil considering soil quality and agronomic parameters of crops would be the best rescue option to
enhance production per unit area in marginal as well as arable land.
www.fao.org/fsnforum/ecfs/en
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[email protected]
So, if we can manage marginal land for sustainable production, it will be one means to enhance
productivity. Next, we must enhance production per unit area but in sustainable way. Hence,
sustainable intensification might be next best option in Eurasian land.
16. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
In reply to Dr. Dosov:
The issues of water, including groundwater, use in agriculture have been closely linked to the land use
and soil cultivation, particularly in Central Asia, where farming on huge territories is based on
irrigation. So this issue can and must be raised, including at this forum. The studies related to the
stocks and qualities of the groundwater were quite intensive during the Soviet time. A part of these
materials has been transformed into a series of Giprovodhoz maps, some of them are represented at
our site http://ecfs.msu.ru/ru/resources/e-maps.php . Unfortunately, the hydrogeological map
containing data of interest to you is off-line. We shall complete our work on it within a couple of
weeks: this map has a very complicated thematic content and its adaptation to the format of the online GIS takes a lot of time.
How relevant is this information? How active are the works designed to update the data on the
groundwater in the region? Frankly speaking, I do not know. The national rules on the use and
protection of water resources, including groundwater, are different in different countries. The
international law is based on the rules adopted by the International Water Association at the Berlin
Conference in 2004. The relevant materials and their unofficial translation into Russian are attached.
However, I believe in general, that such experts as Dr. Zhusupov or Dr. Doukhovny (I hope that he will
be able to join our forum), are in a better position to give you more competent and complete answer.
17. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural
Research Institutions (CACAARI)
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov, dear colleagues,
The Eurasian Soil Partnership (EASP) (the creation of which can / will promote greater sustainability
of the soil resources management) puts as one of its strategic objectives: "The solution of the most
important issues relating to soil, which have the regional importance in terms of provision of services
through soil, in particular, with a view to increase food security, to better adapt to the climate change,
to prevent salinization and pollution of surface and groundwaters ... ".
In this connection, may we include or formulate as one of the goals or objectives of the EASP "The
promotion of the sustainable use of groundwater and the aqueous layers"?
18. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To Mr. Roshan Babu Ojha:
I am grateful for your comments. I think that the term "sustainable intensification" is very good and
should be used more extensively. You have raised the issue of marginal lands quite timely, as they
occupy tremendous territories in Central Asia. Generally speaking the term "marginal lands" so far has
not been sufficiently defined (basically it has an economic meaning rather than the meaning of the soil
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[email protected]
science), therefore it is quite difficult to evaluate their surface, the rate of their degradation and to
develop measures designed to use them. Nevertheless, we should continue our work on this issue.
Many researchers suggest using the marginal lands to produce biofuel. This approach is not that
simple and we should pay particular attention to it.
19. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
In reply to Dr. Dosov:
I am grateful for your comments on the inclusion of water resources into agenda of the Soil
Partnership. In fact, it is absolutely correct: water is the blood, and the earth is the flesh of agriculture,
one cannot speak of one and forget the other. At the same time there are a lot of institutions and
organizations dealing with water issues, including in the region of Central Asia: I have in mind the
relevant national ministries and agencies, the Interstate Water Coordination Commission (SIC ICWC),
and the international structures, such as IWMI. They have done very good professional job. On that
background the work conducted in the field of land and soil resources management has been lagging
behind and we have to catch up our colleagues. In no case shall we forget the importance of water, but
we have to pull up the issues related to land, which so far have been poorly developed.
20. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
In reply to Dr. Zhusupov on the second question (the structure of partnership):
I thank you for your wise words. I completely agree with you that without good neighbourhood
relationship and without the desire to share the knowledge and achievements with the colleagues, it
will not be possible to speak about any partnership. I join your opinion that FAO is a good platform for
the meetings, workshops and schools. If we put it more specifically, we can speak about FAO offices in
the countries of the region, as well as the Regional and subregional offices, which take active part in
numerous programmes in Central Asia and South Caucasus. At the same time we would like to see
Moscow, in particular our centre, as one of the sites, where we could meet and train the specialists. I
support by two my hands the desire to carry out as many conferences, trainings and working
meetings, as possible!
21. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural
Research Institutions (CACAARI)
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov,
In addition to your reply to Dr. Zhusupov on the second question, I also completely support the
proposal relating to the platform for the meetings and cooperation. At the same time I would like to
precise the following. The basic document "Towards a Eurasian Soil Partnership for food security and
sustainable development" speaks about the Global Soil Partnership (GSP), as well as the Regional Soil
Partnerships (RSP), which are expected to be created in accordance with the FAO classification. Is the
Eurasian Soil Partnership (EASP), (which can include Russia and the countries of Central Asia)
considered as the RSP or the Subregional Soil Partnership?
www.fao.org/fsnforum/ecfs/en
– 16 –
[email protected]
22. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of
Natural Resources
I support our Moscow colleagues on the need of information.
It should include of course: agrochemistry, GIS-technology, the systematic evaluation of the results of
stage surveys. The ecological certification within the agrarian natural resources management may be
considered as innovation, which could include the ecological certification of agricultural lands as well
as the surrounding territories in general (or territory as a whole). We have the required
methodologies and the criteria. The problem consists in the understanding the idea and implementing
it at the international level. I am prepared to share the information with the scientists concerned.
23. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of
Natural Resources
In reply to Dr. Zhusupov, FAO expert
The proposal relating to organic agriculture is very good. However, the entire land cannot and will not
be under the organic agriculture. There is a general need in intensive, traditional cultivation which
should be distinguished from the ecological cultivation. My idea consists in the following: the
achievement of 10-20 % of the cultivated surfaces shows that this is a trend. Such performances exist
in a limited number of countries.
On the issue of labelling. I have developed my ideas on the ecological and / or organic labelling, and I
know the GEN approaches. Therefore the discussion of the criteria of the ecological labelling and the
development of the general approaches would provide information for ISO and Committee 207 which
deals with this issue. I once again raise the issue of certification. The draft standards have been
developed for the ecological certification within the system of natural resources management. We
have introduced such a system approach with due account of the synergy principle in the Rovno
region of Ukraine. The social and economic impact amounts to 20 % in terms of reduced level of
diseases of digestive system, etc. All resources have been considered in integrated manner: water, soil,
climate, biodiversity, bioindication, the water level, hydroecology and others.
The Annex contains the examples of calculations for the entire Ukraine.
Skrypchuk P. M., Doctor of Economic Sciences, Professor, Head of the Working Party for Standards
Development at the GosPotrebStandart of Ukraine, Professor of the National University of Water
Economy and the Use of Natural Resources
24. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
In reply to the question of Dr. Dosov:
I support the view of Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov. Why in the arid areas of agriculture there is little use of
groundwater for irrigation? Because it is much more expensive compared to the use of surface water,
especially in terms of exploitation (power supply lines, installation of downhole submersible pumps,
the cost of electricity and other expenses). Before building an irrigation system a lot of engineering
studies, including hydrological researches, should be conducted: irrigation capacity, daily, monthly,
long-term data on flow of the river, repeatability, availability during the growing season, etc.
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[email protected]
Groundwater use also requires a lot of expensive (for example, drilling of exploratory wells is costly)
hydrogeological and water surveys to assess the performance of stocks, the source and discharge of
groundwater, the impact of irrigation groundwater levels in order to determine their place in the
general water resources, to assess the changes in the mode of surface run-off during the operation of
groundwater for irrigation. The old data exists (from the time of the USSR) in the Central Asian
countries, as well as the hydrogeological maps, water table contour maps (non-pressurized
groundwater), maps of piezometric contours (pressurized groundwater). For many years, we rely on
these maps to use groundwater for drinking water supply, for industrial use, livestock watering and
irrigation of small local areas where there are no surface water sources or there is an acute shortage of
irrigation water in the middle of the growing season.
In view of the coming impact of global climate change, your question is very relevant. In my opinion,
after appropriate engineering studies and techno-economic evaluation / feasibility studies, in the face
of acute shortage of water, you can use groundwater, preferably with a connection to the drip
irrigation system, which is a widespread type of irrigation at present, for example in Israel. In
connection with the low use of groundwater for irrigation. I think that the debate on the use of
transboundary water resources, including transboundary groundwater, is a different subject for
discussion. In turn, I understand the issue raised by Dr. Dosov and we need to discuss the impact of
groundwater level on soil fertility and crop yields, i.e. the question of reconstruction and development
of drainage networks to reduce the levels of groundwater and prevent salinization and waterlogging.
The main factor of accelerated soil salinity is improper irrigation. In case of unduly high level of
irrigation, as well as the loss of irrigation water from canals the groundwater table rises, and soluble
salts are raised through the capillaries of the soil. In this case, there is a secondary soil salinization.
Excess of soluble salts adversely affects the development of plants. The concentration of 0.10 - 0.15%
is a limit for very sensitive to salinity cultures, while 0.15-0.35% is harmful for most of the crops.
Wheat yields in low salinity conditions is reduced by 50-60%, corn yields - by 40-50%, cotton yields by 20-30%. In the conditions of mid-saline soils cotton yield is reduced by 2 times compared with
yields at low salinity, while wheat is oppressed and killed. The higher the degree of mineralization of
groundwater, the greater is the depth of soil salinity. On average, in the case of groundwater salinity of
10-15 g / l, the critical depth of the groundwater is 2-2.5 m, so during irrigation it is recommended to
maintain the water table at the depth of 2-2.5 m
25. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
I support the view of Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra (India)
Indeed soil as the basis of life requires care. Once SOIL is provided care, it will act as a resource, and
start to give food to humanity. Normal SOIL is the key to food security. SOIL needs love and care. From
an engineering point of view, the earth is ground, and after care and provision with water, air and
nutrient regime, this ground is converted to soil. I like the wording of Dr. Krasilnikov - "Water is the
blood, and the earth is the flesh of agriculture, one cannot speak of one and forget the other." In the
Eurasian region and all over the world, in this period of agricultural development, the priority task is
to maintain and improve the use of land and water resources.
To do this it is necessary to:


Improve public accounting and monitoring of land and water resources;
Ensure the conservation and sustainable use of fertility of agricultural land and water
resources;
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[email protected]




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Strengthen the role of local authorities and civil society organizations in the conservation and
restoration of soil fertility;
Conduct a large-scale assessment of soil fertility, to form a stable system of monitoring and
create a database on agricultural lands, to assess the real state of water resources;
Establish a system of legal rules and administrative and economic measures to combat the
irrational land and water use, and further land degradation.
Tighten regulations on the conservation of land and water resources (the permissible levels of
contamination of soil and water sources with different waste of industrial and agricultural
production, domestic waste, etc.);
Increase penalties for violations. At the same time, in order to significantly improve the control
practices and to create incentives for a gradual transition to environmentally friendly
technologies;
Strengthen the role and responsibility of local authorities, as well as the capacity of civil society
organizations in the conservation and restoration of soil fertility.
26. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
Regarding land degradation:
Today, the state is practically not able to make farmers plant one or another crop, because (for
example in Kyrgyzstan) more than 90% of irrigated lands are owned directly by private farmers.
Farmers sow the crop, which would allow them to receive the maximum profit. It is no secret that over
time, the soil of land of many farmers is depleted and degraded. And this is due to the fact that farmers
do not follow the simple measures of agricultural technologies, such as carrying out a crop rotation. In
order to have such a system of crop rotation, the private farmers must cooperate. One of the most
powerful factors for stabilizing agricultural production is the expansion of cultivation of perennial
legume grasses and legumes. Alfalfa and sainfoin are the most valuable fodder crops and sources of
high quality protein feed. Forage production is an important sector of agriculture. Its importance is
enormous, not only in terms of providing animal feed, but also in addressing many of the pressing
problems in the biological function of agriculture, conservation and improvement of soil fertility and
ensuring sustainability of agricultural landscapes. Revival of grass cultivation will not only improve
the forage production, but also increase phyto-meliorative and agronomical soil conditions. Among all
legumes, alfalfa and sainfoin are the most potent nitrogen-fixing crops. Alfalfa is able to accumulate at
least 250 kg of readily available nitrogen per 1 ha, and in favourable moisture conditions up to 400 kg.
Well developed alfalfa herbage on the second or third year of life accumulates in the arable horizon 812 t per hectare of root mass and crop residues, which have the content of nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium and other nutrients equivalent to the introduction of 40-60 t of manure per hectare.
Depending on growing conditions, alfalfa and sainfoin restore from 0.5 to 1.5 tons of humus per
hectare, providing its deficit-free balance. In addition, the long-term continuous coverage of the
surface of soil by plants alfalfa and sainfoin regulates storm water and melt water runoff and prevents
the soil from water and wind erosion. Alfalfa and sainfoin are good precursors for almost all crop
rotation and sainfoin is also a great honey plant.
Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan, agricultural and water resources expert
27. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
About pasture degradation and the impact of forage crops on irrigated land on soil fertility:
www.fao.org/fsnforum/ecfs/en
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[email protected]
The livestock has occupied an important trend in agricultural activities of the Central Asian farmers, so
the production of forage crops in sufficient quantity has been and remains one of the most critical
issues in the development of the livestock industry and in providing food security in general. For
example, in the Kyrgyz Republic actually about 65% of the population lives in rural areas and the share
of the livestock sector in the structure of gross agricultural output amounts to 45%. The livestock is
one of the leading sectors of agriculture for rural residents. More than 93% of Kyrgyzstan territory is
occupied by the mountains of two greatest mountain ranges of Tien Shan and Pamir-Alai, which are
covered by large tracts of natural pastures. Forages from the natural pastures are the basis of supply
for breeding of cattle, sheep, horses, yaks and goats. The pastures make up almost 85% out of the total
area of agricultural land. In general, about 49% of the pastures have been degraded.
The main causes of pasture degradation: High grazing pressure, especially near villages, irrational use
of pastures for many years, insufficient rehabilitation measures. The degradation of a large territory
became irreversible. Pasture infrastructure - roads, bridges, water holes are in need of refurbishment
and capital improvements. Due to global climate change, on the one hand, the amount of precipitation
decreases every year, on the other hand their distribution in time and space has been broken. Most of
the precipitation falls in the winter and early spring, which explains the sharp decline in natural
moisture reserves in the soil in the period from spring to autumn. Evaporation from the soil surface
covered with pasture grass is usually much higher than the amount of precipitation. Therefore, grass
at the pastures has been poorly developed, covering the surface of the earth by 20-30%, and the yield
of pasture does not exceed 3.2 hundreds kg / ha. For this reason, it is necessary to finance the
rehabilitation and prevention of pasture degradation, improve rangeland forage merits.
Phytomeliorative reconstruction of pastures should be aimed at radical improvement of pastures and
surface by seeding, irrigation, fertilization, and weed control. Also finance is needed for the
rehabilitation of pasture infrastructure facilities, which have the inter-district and inter-farm value
(bridges, roads, catchment, centres of culture, communications, transportation, etc.).
It would seem that I walked away from the main topic of discussion. In fact, if we ensure farmers'
access to distant summer pastures, we will unload the nearby pasture, and thus to some extent be able
to save them from their further degradation. Currently, the field irrigated fodder production in the
structure of the rotation amounts to 15-18%, which is less than 50% of the needs. Forage production
is an important sector of agriculture. Its significance is enormous, not only in providing animal feed,
but also in addressing many of the pressing problems in the biological function of agriculture,
conservation and improvement of soil fertility, sustainability of agricultural landscapes. Today one of
the other most pressing problems is that many farmers in the regions are producing homogeneous
culture without respecting the basic principles of seed chain, which consists in conducting crop
rotation measures. This depletes soil.
To overcome this situation, it is necessary to:

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Monitor the farmers who are really in need of forage crops;
Analyse soil for exhaustion;
Conduct training sessions in all regions on the basic principles of crop rotation;
Provide training on the benefits and advantages of forage grasses alfalfa, sainfoin and other
forage crops;
Assist in obtaining certified seeds of forage crops.
With the current mode of operation the soil is unable to work as a natural self-regulating system. The
current annual soil loss exceeds its regenerative capabilities. In this connection, it is crucial to carry
out crop rotation.
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[email protected]
28. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation
In reply to Dr. Dosov (on the structure of partnership):
As stated in the official documents of the Global Soil Partnership (see attachment), it is assumed that
the regional soil partnerships should be established in accordance with the FAO regions (Europe, Asia,
North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Middle East, Africa, Australia and Oceania ). At the
same time, there is no obstacle to the formation of subregional and transregional partnerships to solve
some common problems. For example, Latin America and Asia decided to establish their regional
partnerships practically within the limits of the FAO regions, while Africa preferred to create the
subregional partnerships at this stage (see web-site
http://www.fao.org/globalsoilpartnership/regional-partnerships/en/ ).
In our case, the regional partnership will be built in the region "Europe and Central Asia." When and
where this regional partnership will be opened, we do not know yet. It is now being discussed, and
routinely the issue will be resolved in the near future. At the same time it would be unreasonable to sit
and wait for the regional partnership to be organized. It makes sense to work on the subregional level
to identify common problems, common platform, then it will be easier to work both at the regional and
global levels. As you know, our region is huge and very heterogeneous, including the countries which
are fundamentally different in terms of the level of development of agriculture, the type of agriculture,
and the affordable budget. So we start with the subregional partnership, and then we'll work with
European colleagues. Once again I want to emphasize that the principled position of the partnership is
voluntary participation in partnerships and flexibility of a regional approach. Participation in the same
(sub) regional partnership does not exclude cooperation with another regional partnership. For
example, if we think that in order to solve common problems we need to invite colleagues from India
and Nepal, no one can prevent us from doing this. Any cooperation is welcome.
29. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation
In reply to Prof. Petro Skrypchuk:
I am glad to welcome you on the forum. I agree with you that organic farming is not yet in a position to
feed a growing population. Simple calculations of the agrochemical balance of nutrients show that with
the ever-increasing yields soil also loses its nutrient elements. Unfortunately, without the use of
mineral fertilizers, it is not possible to meet the plants' needs in the supply of mineral elements. You
propose a good level to aim: 10-20% under organic farming.
Do you have a rationale exactly for this percentage of surface? If not, on what basis is it possible to
calculate precisely the same percentage of surface? As far as I know, these issues are now being
actively discussed in many countries.
30. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
What are the specific issues related to the management and conservation of soil resources, which
should be included into agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership?
www.fao.org/fsnforum/ecfs/en
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[email protected]
Dear colleagues, on this issue, I have another suggestion: One of the important issues that should be
included into agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership - is the issue of training and re-training of
scientific and operational skills - soil scientists and the dissemination of new knowledge through the
improvement of the educational process at universities in the field of agriculture. There is a need for
the development and introduction of new, modern approaches and ideas to change the situation,
because of global climate change. I think that the most effective method of disseminating knowledge is
the sphere of training at universities. Unfortunately, in many universities, training materials are
obsolete. If we continue training on their basis, then it will be necessary to retrain the graduates with
due account of new conditions and technologies, before they start their professional activities. FAO is
working for decades in many parts of the world, and has gained valuable experience in the
management and conservation of soil resources. This experience is now available through the
publication of guides and methodologies. This experience should be transferred to the university
students, and later on they will go after graduation to their districts and will extend their knowledge
by serving as coaches.
To do this it is necessary to:
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Introduce changes to the curriculum of the major specialized disciplines of soil science and
agriculture;
Implement a positive experience extracted from the projects, methodologies, tools and
approaches by FAO in many countries of the world;
Create in the university libraries and existing libraries of divisions of advanced (new) modern
knowledge;
To collect, organize and translate into available languages technical advice, publications, and
other new FAO knowledge in the field of soil science;
Develop training manuals, guidelines, etc. on the basis of FAO publications, technologies and
methodologies;
Establish centres of excellence for professionals dealing with soil and for the relevant agricultural
specialists.
31. Ms. Angela Dogotari, Republic of Moldova, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry
Answers to questions from the point of view of the situation in the Republic of Moldova
I. Do the land degradation and climate change serve as factors that limit food security in the Eurasian
region, particularly in Central Asia?
In the Republic of Moldova, the following major climatic changes have been noticed:
1. The unpredictability of weather events, which does not allow farmers to forecast the situation
and plan their activities.
2. The gradual raising of the average annual temperature by 3-4º by 2070 and a reduction in
average annual rainfall by 6-7% (by 19% in summer and by 16% in autumn, i. e. at critical
periods of growth and development of crops), leading to strengthening of soil drought, the
overall arid climate, desertification of some areas, and to the reduction of crop yields.
3. The frequency of strong atmospheric drought will increase (almost twofold) during critical
periods of crop development
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[email protected]
The above and other climate change factors will lead to an intensification of the processes of soil
degradation:
1. The process of mineralization of humus will be strengthened, which will reduce its content in
the topsoil.
2. There will be a further deterioration of the structure of the arable layer of soil.
3. The structureless topsoil will lose the ability to resist the secondary seal to critical levels that
will lead to a sharp deterioration in the physical condition of the ploughed soil.
4. Productive soil moisture reserves accumulated during the cold season will be drastically
reduced, which will create the preconditions for the manifestation of soil drought, even in the
case of a weak manifestation of the atmospheric drought.
5. The soil erosion will increase as a result of more frequent rainfall patterns in the form of
torrential rains.
The risks to agriculture caused by climate change will increase as a result of the current low
productivity of the branch, demonstrating the lack of ability of agriculture to adapt even in the current
climate (the adaptation deficit). All these facts point to the need for specific measures to counter the
potential negative effects of climate change on agriculture to ensure food security of the population.
II. How will these issues be addressed in terms of soil parameters?
From the point of view of combating soil degradation it is necessary to:
1. Ensure the sufficient balance of humus in arable soils by introducing organic fertilizers from
any possible sources.
2. Organize and widely implement a scientific system of application of green manure (fallow land
with annual legumes, intermediate winter legumes ploughed into the soil as organic fertilizer).
3. Introduce rotation of five fields in which one field is reserved for perennial grasses or fallow
land with annual legume ploughed on as green manure.
4. Develop and implement a safe system of application of chemical fertilizers, taking into account
the features of climate change.
5. Use soil conservation land treatment systems (Mini-Till, No-Till).
6. Expand the area of irrigated land, to develop a system of rational use of irrigation water and
control the secondary degradation of irrigated soils.
7. Carry out the anti-erosion organization of the agricultural areas, and to use lands according to
their suitability for these or other crops.
III. What should be the structure of the subregional soil partnership, to ensure food security and
sustainable development in Central Asia?
1. The joint organization of real-time monitoring of soil degradation processes for identifying and
managing their elimination or minimization at the early stages of their manifestation.
2. Joint research on the development and implementation of: farming systems, adapted to climate
change; methods of combating soil degradation and desertification of land.
3. Establishment and implementation of drought-tolerant and disease-resistant crops.
4. Improvement of irrigation farming systems and methods to combat the secondary degradation
as a result of irrigation.
IV. What kind of specific issues related to the management and conservation of soil resources should
be included into agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership?
1. The legislative support issues related to the management and conservation of soil resources.
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2. The organization of operational soil monitoring.
3. The proper organization of the agricultural area, land use, taking into account the quality of the
soil cover.
4. The development of drought-adapted farming systems.
5. The improvement of soil conservation methods of cultivation.
6. The development of effective methods of combating land degradation.
7. The expansion of irrigated land and the development of water-saving irrigation systems and
soil conservation irrigated farming.
8. The selection and introduction of drought-resistant varieties of crops.
9. The development of effective methods of pest control in the conditions of arid climate.
32. Mr. Ivan Aidarov, Russian Federation, The Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS)
It would be feasible to include the following issues into the programme of discussion related to GSP:
1. The methodology of providing long-term forecasts of the restoration and further utilization of
degraded natural pastures, taking into account the dynamics of heat and moisture provision
and the level of the pasture burden.
2. The analyses of the causes for and the ecological, social and economic consequences of land
degradation in Central Asia. In this case land should be considered as the aggregate of natural
ecosystems and natural resources related to them (climate, biodiversity, soil, water resources,
etc.).
3. The ways and methods of the integrated management of the state of land, including
biodiversity, soil, water resources, etc., in order to solve the food security problems and
improve the well-being of population.
4. The simulation of soil processes and state (including the irrigated soil). The difficulties related
to the simulation consist in the fact that soil is both the independent bio-inert body, a
component of the ground ecosystems and the biosphere in general, as well as the subject of
labour and a means of food production.
Mr. Ivan Aidarov, Russian Federation, The Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS)
33. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, the National University of Water Economy and the Use of
Natural Resources
I welcome all the colleagues.
Response to Prof. Pavel Krasilnikov: I have taken part in many events devoted to the organic farming.
In most cases the level of 10-20% of organic farming is given by the expert estimates. My opinion is the
following: I would estimate the volume of, first of all, grain processed in the country for food, second the volume of grain processed for animal feed or for technical needs; then the same procedure would
apply to vegetables - everything produced under ecological or organic conditions (taking into account
the rates of growth of organic farming) amounts to 1 - 3% in the best case; the share of the potentially
fertile soil, which is very important in terms of the agro-industrial complex economy and the costeffectiveness of the organic farming; the demand growth and factor in the world and Europe, since not
everybody can buy such products. This also reflects certain percentage, which could amount up to 20 35% (A survey conducted in Russia, Moscow - labelling). And a number of other indicators, which we
could further discuss.
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On the issues of the Forum:
1. What should be the structure of the subregional soil partnership to ensure food security and
sustainable development in Central Asia? - Perhaps, international, while the documentation
(rules, standards, etc.) should be harmonized at the ISO level.
2. What specific issues related to the soil resources management and conservation should be
included into the agenda of the Eurasian Soil Partnership? The answer is: The issues of
standardization and metrological provision (it will be necessary to measure and share
information, which is UNIQUE in the sphere of science and its procession); - The development
of the intergovernmental programmes on the use of natural resources (land, water...); - GISmonitoring of land resources; - The ecological and economic feasibility study of farming in
such conditions, etc.
Thank you for communication.
Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, the National University of Water Economy and the Use of Natural
Resources
34. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To academician Aidarov:
Ivan Petrovich, first of all, I thank you for your participation in the discussion. It is very important that
you pay attention to the causes for land degradation. We often forget what seems to be evident: there
is no use to address the consequences without eliminating the causes. In general you have put the
large-scale tasks. There is no doubt that you are 100% right stating that the natural resources
management should have an integrated character, otherwise there will inevitably be the distortions in
the priorities, since either the state of land, food production or biodiversity will suffer.
The interesting question is: where shall we take the specialists capable to ensure such management in
a competent manner? Have we approached to the solution of such tasks from the point of view of skill
training? I completely agree that the simulation is one of the priorities in the soil science. We as soil
scientists are conservative people, who are close to land, and therefore we lack confidence in the
results obtained not in the fields or chemical laboratories, but through a computer. However, there is
nothing to do since the simulation can replace thousands of field experiments and save money and
time. The role of the mathematical simulation has been increased in all fields of the agrarian science
and we also should keep a pace. By the way, the programme of the Global Soil Partnership pays a lot of
attention to the development of the system for the intellectual data analyses (data mining), which has
been singled out as a separate field of work (Pillar 4). I think that the same field of work is very
promising for the Eurasian Partnership, as so far we are lagging behind other regions in this respect.
35. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To Prof. Petro Skripchuk:
I thank you for the precision. In fact, there are certain limiting factors, which are not connected
directly to soil. The demand for products of organic farming is not always effective. We need to talk
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with our economists: there we can get a good comprehensive study on the multivariate model that can
show the potential percentage of the territory, which would be feasible to use for organic farming.
36. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To Dr. Zhusupov:
I fully support your last post about the critical importance of education in the field of soil science for
sustainable land use and accordingly for food security. I am particularly interested in this issue: within
the newly created Intergovernmental Technical Panel on Soils (ITPC) I am a member of the group
responsible for elaborating the issues related to raising the level of knowledge about soil in society
(soil awareness), and to the development of education in the field of soil, etc. (Pillar 2). I recorded your
suggestions and if you do not mind, I'll include you as a co-author of the Action Plan in this area which
we must soon present to the public. I would add to that extensive list that you have submitted the
secondary school education. A modern student all over the world is getting virtually no knowledge of
soil. In Russia, there is one lesson in geography course devoted to soil; I have to say that my children
have obtained no knowledge out of it. We must ensure that information about land and soil is included
in school curricula. However, we can start now: if, for example, each soil scientist goes on the World
Soil Day (December 5) to school and tells the students about soil, something can move in this world.
In your proposals you have repeatedly referred to the need to base education on the methodologies
and knowledge of FAO. In general, I agree with you: first, I myself like FAO and I am grateful to this
organization for the establishment of the Global Soil Partnership and this Forum; and secondly, we all
suffer from a lack of common approaches and common language, and in this sense FAO represents a
successful platform. At the same time, I think, that we should not exaggerate the role of FAO as a
source of new knowledge. FAO is not a research organization, and its task is not to carry out research.
Rather, FAO is compiling and harmonizing the data that is created by numerous universities and
research centres. I do not want to diminish the role of FAO in providing soil surveys and food security.
37. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To Ms. Angela Dogotari:
I thank you for the detailed comment. Surprisingly, the proposals of the Forum participants are
arranged in the priority areas (Pillars), which have been allocated to the Global Soil Partnership. In
particular, your comment falls well within the framework of Pillars 1 and 3, related to the
development and promotion of soil conservation policies, as well as to the development of applied soil
studies.
The long-standing and powerful school of soil science is working in Moldova and we will be happy to
cooperate with you. Collaborative research and coordinated monitoring are the priority tasks for the
Partnership. Global climate change and its impact on food security is an important issue. You have
clearly outlined the changes that may occur with soil in the case of climate change. At the same time, I
am not sure that the progressive warming scenarios have been realized, as for example, many IPCC
experts suggest that warming may soon be replaced by a rather cold snap. However, I agree that one
should be prepared for a possible warming and arid climate. In any case, scientists must be well
prepared to meet any possible changes.
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38. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
Dear Colleagues!
When I made comments and suggestions on the ... quote: "Our long-term strategic goal is the
transformation of Kyrgyzstan into one of the world's leading organic agriculture, i.e. the transition to
the production of green products of agriculture, ensuring sustainable development of the economy,
public health, environmental conservation. In this respect the main role is played by soil and its
fertility"..., I wanted to take the initiative to save the soil resources in the Eurasian region from further
poisoning them with chemical fertilizers, pesticides and other harmful to the human body foreign
technologies, GMOs, etc., through the development of organic farming on the example of Kyrgyzstan.
Because of the protracted transition period, and due to some errors in the reform of agriculture,
Kyrgyzstan is lagging behind by 20 years in terms of the development of agriculture in many former
Soviet republics, and by many more years from the agricultural development in the European zone.
We do not have factories producing chemicals / mineral fertilizers, pesticides, etc. Kyrgyzstan export
of mineral fertilizers amounts only to 30% of the required level, while toxic chemicals and pesticides
to only 5% of the needs. Given that 94% of our agricultural land represent the natural pastures, the
country is mainly specializing in livestock, while irrigated land is used mainly for production of fodder
crops (that improve soil fertility), and since we have not so far poisoned our soil resources, why not to
develop organic farming. Therefore, it is not a question of percentage of organic farming. Thank you
for comments.
39. Dr. Alexander Kaigorodtsev, Kazakhstan, The S.Amanzholov East Kazakhstan State
University
Dear colleagues!
Several participants of the discussion expressed the need for the development of organic farming. At
the same time it is concluded that by using only organic farming food security problem cannot be
solved. Therefore, it is necessary to find a balance between organic farming and agriculture using
mineral fertilizers. It is obvious that the solution of this problem will require economic and
mathematical simulation. In this respect the comparative analysis of organic and non-organic farming
is required. It is necessary to determine the size of subsidies to farmers-supporters of organic farming.
Do you have such data?
40. Prof. Seyed Kazem Alavipanah Iran (Islamic Republic of), University of Tehran
One of the most important and crucial step in soil updating data and maps are data collection,
processing and analyzing, accuracy assessment, overlapping and crossing maps and data in each
region and countries.
Then we can expect a better improvement and development of soil data and soil monitoring in the
world. Finally a reliable soil risk maps can be produced. Soil monitoring, soil updating and then
generalization can be achieved by using remote sensing and GIS based algorithms and methods. These
techniques and sciences are very helpful in time and money consuming point of view.
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Therefore I strongly advise that such a topic must be included in all steps of soil data harmonization
and generalization. But unfortunately there are some problems in using remote sensing and GIS
applications, especially on soil mapping and change detection methods based on RS/GIS applications.
In one hand, soil is a very complex because it is dynamic in time (horizontally and vertically aspects or
soil surface and subsurface conditions) IN ANOTHER HAND REMOTELY SENSED DATA have many
ambiguity and confusion for soil information extraction. Therefor those who want to use more suitable
algorithms and methods for such generalization and monitoring soil, they must understand both
fields/disciplines very well. Otherwise a precise work and methods will not be possible or it will takes
a long time and it needs very high cost. Because reaching to a world wide changed soil maps and data
without RS/GIS ind other related techniques is not very precise in one hand and their applications in
soil monitoring is not an easy task too.
So providing an instruction for a world wide maps is very essential in the first step. Such instruction
can be prepared by both specialist of soil and RS/GIS
41. Mr. Ivan Aydarov, Russian Federation, Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS)
Dear colleagues!
After reviewing the results of the preliminary discussion, I consider it appropriate to make some
considerations. Professor Kiselev is right, speaking of the need to consolidate all existing proposals
into an overall picture and to develop on that basis the long-term action programme. So far,
unfortunately, a single picture has not been composed and only selected, albeit important, issues can
be seen. The problem of food security in Central Asia includes several complex problems, and the main
issues are the following:
1.
Political. Gaining independence by the Central Asian states has not only exacerbated the
environmental and socio-economic situation, but also led to the emergence of complex political
problems. Prior to 1991, the territory of Central Asia was part of the union state. The land, its subsoil,
water, vegetation, soil, wildlife were an integral property of the peoples of the USSR, and the economy
of Central Asia was a single economic complex comprising all elements of public production of the
USSR. The network of water reservoirs and canals, as well as the water management system of Central
Asia have been created as a single water resources management system that provides long-term and
seasonal adjustment, the distribution and use of water to meet the requirements of all water users in
the region. After 1991, five independent states have been created in the territory of Central Asia which
have declared all the natural resources as their inalienable property, which they can use at their
discretion. As a result, a single water management system was virtually destroyed.
Solving this problem is crucial and should be done at the level of the five sovereign states. Without a
solution of this problem, food security in Central Asia would not be achieved.
2. Scientific and technical. This issue includes the need to develop ways and means of the integrated
management of environmental, social and economic factors, as a basis for sustainable development,
food security and well-being of the population of the Central Asian states. In this regard, we cannot
restrict our studies by only individual components of the natural system (soil, climate, water
resources). Wealth and health of the population is directly determined by the state of ecosystem
functions and services provided by natural ecosystems. Therefore it is necessary first of all to
investigate the mechanisms that determine the state of natural ecosystems and the impact of change in
ecosystem services to all components of land (climate, biota, soil, water resources). Available data
shows that environmentally acceptable limits of human impact on the natural systems of Central Asia
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have been greatly exceeded, and therefore, land degradation continues. With the current state of the
situation the surface of the degraded land may increase by 10-12% by 2020. Further land degradation
may be prevented only with the restoration of ecosystems to the level at which the principle of the Le
Chatelier - Broun begins to operate.
3.
The use of groundwater and drainage water for irrigation. The fresh groundwater reserves not
related to river flow in this region are very limited and must be used exclusively for the provision of
population with drinking water. The repeated use for irrigation of the collection and drainage water
only creates the illusion of water resources conservation. The drainage of irrigated lands combined
with a leaching regime and re-use of drainage water for irrigation are essentially mutually exclusive
events that have caused the salinization and degradation of irrigated soils. The re-use of drainage
water has not only negated the effectiveness of drainage and leaching regime, but also turned it into a
major cause of degradation of the natural system as a whole. A stable inverse positive relationship has
been formed: the greater the intensity of the leaching regime, the larger the volume of the drainage
flow, the more salt enters the irrigation sources and is accumulated in the irrigated soils, etc.
In addition, it should be kept in mind that the creation of the leaching regime intensity amounting to ≥
30% of the irrigation net rate is inevitably accompanied by a decrease in the fertility and productivity
of irrigated soils and groundwater pollution by nitrogen and pesticides.
Mr. Ivan Aydarov, Russian Federation, The Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RAAS)
42. Alisher Tashmatov, Uzbekistan, CACAARI Executive Secretary
Dear Colleagues,
As you know, the G20 Summit will begin its work these days in St-Petersburg, where new initiatives
and programs in our region may be open, along with the initiative to create the Eurasian Soil
Partnership (EASP) which deserves support and is very relevant to the nature of the CAC region. Given
that the Advisory Program on International Agricultural Research (APIAR) is launching its Integrated
Research Programs (IRP) in the region, the initiatives under the Soil Partnership could be combined
with IRP of the APIAR. Taking into account the geographical boundaries of different ecosystems and
the climatic zones location, as well as the historically established traditional methods of agriculture
and the natural resources use, it would be very reasonably to believe that the countries of Central Asia,
Southern Caucasus and Russia are the main areas for this partnership. This region has a relatively
similar level of development of agriculture, refers to zones of risky agriculture and subtropics, has
similar methods and approaches in the management of natural resources, especially soil resources,
and addressing soil degradation, and even, what is no less important, as stated in the appeal "... close
cultural, historical and linguistic ties ... ". The National Agricultural Research systems of eight countries
of Central Asia and the Caucasus are members of the Central Asia and Caucasus Association of
Agricultural Research Institutions (CACAARI) and combined into a single platform with the
participation of all stakeholders in agricultural research for development.
The proposed activities of the Eurasian Soil Partnership, which are important for the development of
regional cooperation, include:



Analysis of soil studies and international cooperation in the region associated with the
problems of soil;
Compilation of existing data sets available;
Association of experts from the countries - members / organizations of a regional network;
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



Participation and mediation for the coordination and formation of databases;
Organization of capacity building activities in the framework of international programs /
technical cooperation;
Advising on the situation in the region and preparation of the regional declaration of the
Eurasian Soil Partnership (identifying problems and hotspots, etc.);
The creation of strategic networking and fund-raising in the region.
All of the above seven actions should be included into the Comprehensive Program of Agricultural
Development of the Region, with subsequent consideration for each country and for the region as a
whole at the Government level. That question is being worked out by the CACAARI Secretariat in
cooperation with the Eurasian centre. It has been envisaged to carry out a joint program of the survey
and further discussions on the harmonization of strategies for the development of agriculture in the
CAC region.
As far as the activities implementation is concerned, of course, the adoption of the proposed initiative
and the Partnership documents by the Governments of the region will undeniably be crucial. The
support and approval of these activities at the country and regional levels, with the participation of
Ministers of Agriculture, Finance and Economy of the CAC countries in 2014 may be one of the issues
on the agenda of the meeting planned at this level. Thus, the main factor determining the success of the
EASP will be, to what extent the structures of Governments will be involved in all countries of the
region, as is rightly pointed out in the document: "... we will be able to attract a wide range of
politicians, managers, farmers and representatives of civil society to discuss the problems of soils and
their role in human life and food security in the region."
Sincerely,
Alisher Tashmatov, CACAARI Executive Secretary
43. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
Dear Colleagues,
I would like to share with you the information on the link below. In order to obtain the
environmentally friendly products, as expert advice, you need to have a reliable basic data on
ecological and toxicological conditions in agro-ecosystems, especially experiencing long-term
intensive use of agro-chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides, ameliorants, etc.). Work should begin with an
assessment of environmental and toxicological status of agro-ecosystems, especially of the soil cover.
The desire to increase the productivity of crops and animals without proper consideration of
environmental requirements has led to an unjustified increase in the volume of mineral fertilizers
(mainly nitrogen), pesticides and ameliorants. Plus emissions from industrial production and
transport, municipal waste, which provide to natural and artificial ecosystems polychlorinated
biphenyl (PCB) compounds, sulphur, heavy metals, etc. Meanwhile, environmentally friendly
agricultural products, frequently called "organic", are gaining popularity all over the world today. By
2020, its turnover could reach $ 200-250 billion already, according to the predictions of Mr. Alexander
Konovalov, Head of the International Association of Suppliers of Natural Organic Products
"Ekoklaster". The world leaders in this field include USA, Germany, UK, Italy, Spain and France. Russia,
according to Mr. Konovalov, is lagging behind by 15-20 years. So far the share of organic products
accounts for only 0.1% of all food consumed in the neighbouring country. Meanwhile, experts have
calculated that in large cities 70% of the population are ready to buy such products.
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Read more: http://www.agroxxi.ru/gazeta-zaschita-rastenii/novosti/azerbaidzhan-objavit-voinuhimikatam.html
44. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
To post of Dr. Alisher Tashmatov:
I would like to add that to some extent the Global Soil Partnership has already come to the attention of
G20. At MACS (Meeting of Chief Agricultural Scientists), which took place in July of this year in
Moscow, the role and prospects of the Global Soil Partnership for the tasks set before the G20 has been
discussed. Report on the subject has been prepared by the Dean of the Faculty of Soil Science of the
Moscow State University, the Corresponding Member of the RAS S. A. Shoba. As a result, the Global Soil
Partnership is mentioned in the final communiqué among the programs that should be supported. It is
clear that the reference is in a single line, and it is clear that there is no real funding under this
document. But the remarkable thing is that the issues of processing, protection and restoration of soil
begin to sound at the highest level. A few years ago it was hard to imagine.
Communiqué: Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists (2013)
45. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
Reply to the post of Prof. Seyed Kazem Alavipanah:
I completely support your words on the importance of the reliable modern soil information. As you
know, the Global Soil Partnership pays particular attention to soil information. Pillar 4 has been
specifically devoted to the development of databases, the modern techniques of collection and
procession of the information on soil. Mr. Neil McKenzie, who is in charge of the preparation of the
Action Plan in this field within the Intergovernmental Technical Panel on Soils, has already prepared
the final document which describes in detail the steps required to develop the soil information work,
including the need in the common approaches and methods mentioned by you.
I think that in order to develop the information field, it is very important to ensure the skill training
and the organization of courses and workshops, where the experts on natural resources and the
experts in the field of GIS could share their knowledge.
46. Dr. Matraim Zhusupov, Kyrgyzstan
Regarding the proposals of Mr. Ivan Aidarov from the Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences
(RAAS).
Dear colleagues! I like the reasoning of Mr. Ivan Aidarov with the analyses of the current situation
concerning the issues considered at this Forum. Indeed, it is very difficult to make a general picture, on
the one hand, but it would be very interesting to know, what kind of new positions and proposals will
be submitted, on the other hand. We all have witnessed the history of agricultural development, the
historic prospective of the food security issues on the background of mess and disorder during various
periods of our common great history of the USSR from 1917 to 1991. And we know in turn, what
happens in the brother countries of Central Asia, what kind of problems they face in the water and soil
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resource management. We have witnessed and continue to witness the destruction of the whole
ecosystem. According to expert evaluations, the demographic growth in Central Asia will inevitably
increase the water requirements by 40% in the next 20 years. Such a situation may serve as a reason
for the inter-state conflicts, which will require from the leaders of the Central Asian States the political
maturity and will, in order to solve the water and energy problems on fair bases. All countries of the
region suffer the economic damage due to the lack of a solution to this problem.
According to the UNDP data, the unresolved issues of the water resources operation in Central Asia
lead to more than $1.7 billion annual losses due to inefficient water resources management. Ironically,
there is enough water in Central Asia. The excessive waste of water in Central Asia is due to the archaic
system of farming, when the water consumption for a unit of production is three and sometimes even
ten times higher than the world performance (and exactly for this reason we have lost the Aral sea and
this in turn has an impact on the sustainable natural distribution of precipitation/cyclones in the
Eurasian region). According to expert calculations, the transition to modern agricultural technologies
and the rational water management would allow to save annually up to the half water flow of
transnational rivers in the region. The problem is that the modernization of the Central Asian economy
requires tremendous internal means and foreign investments.
Speaking about the problems of salinization/secondary salinization of soils and the work of the drain
collection system, I would like to point out, that indeed theses problems are very serious in Central
Asia. We have lived the periods when the drain collection systems have not been in operation and
tremendous surface of irrigated land has been subject to the secondary salinization due to the raise of
groundwater level. At the same time the leaching of saline soil and the release of saline water into the
rivers have led to salt concentration growth in the river water. Rivers served as a source for
groundwater in the past, while now they play the role of drainage, and the use of saline water for
irrigation leads to reduced crop yield. One cannot say that the leaders of the Central Asian countries
have not tried to resolve the water management problem in the region. A lot of meetings and talks
have been conducted between the Heads of States of Central Asia, however, according to the estimates
of international organizations and experts, the main issues between the states linked to the regulation
of water and energy relations remain at the same level. Numerous scenarios and proposals can be seen
in this respect. The most promising scenario envisages the active regional interaction of all countries
in the field of use of water and energy. The solution of disputes through negotiations with a view to
achieve mutually advantageous agreements is the only possible approach in this respect. The
implementation of this scenario is determined by the urgent need in the integral management of water
resources, which would allow to rationalize the regime of operation of the hydro- stations, taking into
account both the national and the regional interests. In this case the Eurasian Economic Community
can become a very suitable institutional platform to elaborate the common water and energy policy in
the region. We all know the case of the economic crises in Greece, when the European Union has spent
hundreds of billions of Euros in order to overcome the crises; that is why the Central Asia also needs
the same amounts of investments in order to overcome the current ecological crises.
47. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
Regarding the comments of Dr. Zhusupov and Dr. Kaigorodtsev relating to organic farming.
There is no doubt that organic farming is one of the most topical issues in terms of food security. It is
also very interesting in terms of food safety: it is evident that quality of the organic food on a number
of parameters is much higher than quality of food produced by "traditional" agriculture. At the same
time it is well known that the level of the pathogen concentration in the "organic" products is higher
than in traditional food. I am not an opponent or supporter of the organic farming. There are too many
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contradicting results in the scientific literature. First of all, the contradicting data relates to the crop
yield levels. Then, the data on the economic efficiency of organic farming differs to a large extent. Of
course, the producer sells the "organic" products for much higher price, than the traditional one even
if the yield is lower. However I have not seen the precise calculations of the cost of labour, inputs and
energy related to organic farming. May be the economists have such data? I will try to learn. In any
case the issue of organic farming is not raised as the question "to be or not to be". It is clear that it has
become a mandatory component of the agricultural production structure all over the world, including
the Eurasian region and its development has great prospects. The question is, as I have already
mentioned, what will be the percentage of land to be transferred to organic farming? As for
Kyrgyzstan, I think that Dr. Zhusupov is right stating that on the background of the natural pastures
predominance, land which is used for crop production may be completely transferred to organic
farming purposes. After the precise economic evaluation, of course.
48. Prof. Alexander Sagaydak Russian Federation, State University of Land Use Planning
It's very important now to prevent reduction of Agricultural Land, and, first of all, arable land as well
as soil degradation and, as a consequence, falling soil fertility. Solution of the mentioned above
problems may be the development and implementation of Conservation Reserve Program. The
agricultural producers must be paid in subsidies per unit of arable land in the amount of rent for non
use it for agricultural production. This is largely compensated for the losses of soil fertility in
connection with the refusal of agricultural producers from the system of crop rotation. In a more
global perspective, it is necessary to move on Land Management on the basis of the Voluntary
Guidelines on Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of
National Food Security.
In this connection, it was very important Regional Awareness Raising Workshop on the VG which was
held in Kiev, Ukraine, on May 14-16, 2013 Please, find our presentation made at the workshop
attached to the message.
49. Prof. Petro Skripchuk, Ukraine, National University of Water Economy and the Use of
Natural Resources
Dear colleagues,
I have read the discussion and once again would like to share the results of the scientific studies. The
colleagues in their comments (at the beginning of the discussion text) have raised the question,
whether “the economists may have such data”. In the context of Ukraine and the Rovno region (the
loamy black earth soil in the south, and the sod-podzol soil in the north of Polesye, contaminated with
radionuclide), we have calculated the most optimal variants of the social, economic and ecological
justification for transition to organic farming.
These variants have been calculated with due account of the IFOAM methodology as well as the results
of our own work (the draft standards of the agrarian use of natural resources and land certification):
1. The stabilization of soil quality and transition to organic farming with the stabilization period
of three years;
2. The stabilization of soil quality and transition to organic farming with the reduced stabilization
period;
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3. The stabilization of soil quality and transition to organic farming without any stabilization
period. The calculations have been made in accordance with all standard methodologies and
with due account of the natural process of soil quality stabilization.
The dissertation of a post-graduate student has been prepared for presentation. Numerous scientists
support this approach including the Sokolovskiy Institute of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science
(Kharkov). The social impact of the reduced level of diseases of the population has been also calculated
amounting to + 15 %. The data charts are attached.
Charts on social effect of organic farming. Ukraine
50. Dr. Botir Dosov, Uzbekistan, Central Asia and the Caucasus Association of Agricultural
Research Institutions (CACAARI)
Dear colleagues,
1. I would like to submit a technical proposal for further activities of the envisaged Eurasian Soil
Partnership. In fact I propose to create a tasks matrix for the Eurasian region. Different problems and
tasks have been raised, which are specific in different geographical scales. Different mutually related
problems and tasks can be observed at the horizontal scale, such as: organic farming, capacity building,
forage production, salinization, water-logging, GIS, strategic cooperation to promote the solution of
regional water economy problems and many others. These issues should be considered at the vertical
scale at the regional, sub-regional, transnational, national, district and other levels. Such a tasks matrix
would allow determining the priority tasks and to plan the actions within the partnership, as well as
present a map for cooperation development designed to improve the general state of soils in the
region, which in turn is one of the bases for food security and balanced nutrition. A roadmap could be
developed on the bases of this matrix in future in order to improve the soil state in the region/subregion.
2. I completely support the opinion of Mr Ivan Aidarov (RAAS), regarding the issue of food security in
Central Asia and the need to elaborate a long-term program of actions. At the same time such a
program should envisage the tasks to be solved within the short-term and the medium-term periods.
3. Regarding the issue of the use of groundwater and drainage water for irrigation, raised by Mr Ivan
Aidarov (RAAS) in his comments, according to which “fresh groundwater reserves … must be used
exclusively for the provision of population with drinking water”, it would be advisable to carry out the
face-to-face regional consultation with the participation of different local stakeholders and
international organizations, since «healthy fresh water» is an important factor for food security and
nutrition of the population of Central Asia, as well as the health of population, particularly women and
children, which in turn is related to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
51. Mr. Ronald Vargas, Italy, FAO
Dear colleagues,
I have been following the excellent contributions made during this consultation and was trying to
portrait its contribution to the Global Soil Partnership initiative. Herewith, I'm trying to summarize a
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number of key points that were shared by the different experts and that are every valid when thinking
about establishing the regional Eurasian Soil Partnership:
- Food security is a very complex issue that requires an integrated approach to address it and the
involvement of multidisciplinary teams and various decision takers. Definitely, boosting healthy soils
alone will not solve food insecurity, but will greatly contribute to its reduction and hopefully
eradication.
- Soils provide different ecosystem services and as such are a crosscutting resource for different
development agendas. In this light, the Global Soil Partnership is trying to promote the sustainable
management of soils for different purposes as part of a complex puzzle. We consider all the natural
resources fundamental an would not like to place soils as the main one, but as part of the NRM
dimension.
- Soil science is currently facing an impressive momentum as decision makers/takers have given us a
tremendous opportunity to demonstrate that the promotion of sustainable management could greatly
contribute to the production of healthy food and a varied list of ecosystem services. In this light, the
soil science community should take full advantage of this momentum by taking actions that could have
positive impacts and thus guarantee its own sustainability as a science and also as a vital natural
resource. Soil science should get credibility by their demonstrated contributions to the sustainable
development agenda.
- Investment it is crucial for making soil management part of the solution to a number of global
problems. A partnership implies that everyone contributes with what they afford to for a common
goal. This is the main logic behind the GSP. Therefore, while the GSP is trying to generate further
investment at global, regional and national level, it is necessary that soil scientists at national level
could start developing awareness on the importance to mobilize resources as part of the national
agendas.
- The preservation and conservation of healthy soils and the restoration of those degraded is the main
goal of the GSP. This principle needs to be implemented at local level as soil degradation is a
continuous silent process that threatens sustainable development. There is need to scale up successful
experiences in the region.
Finally, the Eurasian soil partnership could constitute an opportunity for having a regional mechanism
that could address the different soil issues in the region and could develop proper solutions that could
be implemented through a coalition of the willing (partnership).
52. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Soil Science Education:
Soil is a natural foundation on which our activities pertaining to overall food security rest. Accordingly,
we use the soil as a natural resource that is subject to production. Once we recognize a soil, it can not
be a waste and its productivity will oscillate between (near to) zero and (approaching) 100 and move
through an act of management, which is just a means to minimize risk or uncertainty or doubt or any
type of limitation (correctable or non-correctable). Soil is mainly responsible for (i) serving a quality
food (ii) pure water (iii) clean air besides (iv) congenial ecosystem and (v)sustainable soil biodiversity
so that soil may contribute to its critical zone in order to sustain the gross happiness in the societies.
To attain these objectives, there is need of revolutionary updating in global soil science education. Let,
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for example, soil fertility evaluation must not be completed within the top soil fertility assessment
rather one has to link top soil with whole soil (pedon). Micro-teaching in soil science may be one way
to begin.
I may like to share in shaping the education in soil science & related fields for the bare cause of food
security. Just I have forwarded two new look(somewhat)in respect of (i)nutrient management in fruit
crop and (ii) Soil based strategic planning for combating the challenges of global climate change.
Nutrient management: A new look
Climate change: A new look
53. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Integrated soil based flood management:
Bihar in India is a very typical state, where flash flood occurring periodically is a common annual
disastrous event. The Himalaya is the giant source from where flood water meets rivers in Bihar.
Depth-wise surveying of soils following many simple techniques could mitigate the terror of flood.
This is a global challenge in restoring the food security. Let World Bank and FAO come forward to
mitigate the challenge following the soil based integrated management strategies for disastrous flood
in Bihar. A detailed technical programme is submitted for due consideration, if possible. I humbly wish
to continue my sincere contribution for the cause of food security through flood management.
54. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Soil as a protective medicine:
Soil by itself works as a protective medicine in different manners. We know about the penicilline. We
also know about the foodchain either through animal or plant and today, we are learning about the
eating of suitable soil type having permissible range of nutritive values. This requires a long
discussion. But, one thing is clear that soil relates directly not only to food security opportunity, but
also to protective medicine, if careful studies are initiated. It is not surprizing because our knowledge
to soil is at youthful stage and many things are still strange and hidden. Let global organization take a
pledge to initiate the approach in right direction.
55. Vincenzo Lo Scalzo, Italy, AgoraAmbrosiana
Dear moderators,
I am able to anticipate the letter in my hands since a week to which I hope to add another contribution
to the proper ongoing debate with some considerations dedicated to the scope of your last questions,
for the extent of a potential support to some of the contributions that you have received.
GSP: Global Soil Partnership, recent mechanism established by FAO aiming at consolidating joint
efforts of partners interested in the preservation, conservation and rehabilitation of soils as a finite
natural resource, foundation of ecosystem services and food production. Letter to attention of
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moderators, FAO consultation ECFS consultation for soil derived security issues All relevant
contributions are received and seconded as free expressions of excellent competence at top of the
available knowledge of the issues:
Specific measures to assess the potential negative effects of climate change on agriculture to ensure
food security of the population;
Using remote sensing and GIS based algorithms and methods for data collection, processing and
analyzing on soils, accuracy assessment, overlapping and crossing map
Development of the system for the intellectual data analyses (data mining);
Integrated natural resources management;
Management and conservation of soil resources.
Sincere regards and wishes for a foreseen success of your final contribution
V. Lo Scalzo, Dr. industria chemistry. AgoràAmbrosiana, Milano
AA to ECFS consultation for soil derived security issues-FINAL TEXT.doc
56. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
Reply to the post of Prof. Skrypchuk:
I thank you very much for data submitted by you. If possible, I would ask you to submit additional
information related to the methodology for the economic impact calculation. This is a potentially
interesting subject and numerous Forum participants are very interested in this issue. First of all it
would be interesting to have information on the mechanism of the cost-effectiveness growth. Is this
mainly the result of the cost reduction, yield growth and the increased demand? I completely agree
with you, that in addition to pure economic profit, we should also discuss such subjects as the
preservation of the population’s health.
57. Prof. Seyed Kazem Alavipanah Iran (Islamic Republic of), University of Tehran
Mobile & WEB-GIS for Creation and Updating of Global Digital Soil Map
Alavipanah, Seyed Kazem, Ali Darvishi Boloorani and Hamed Jaliliani
Collection and crating the accurate soils maps and information are highly depends to doing accurate
soil survey. This work is handled in local, regional, national, international and global levels. The last
one is called “Global Digital Soil Map”. One of the most important parts of the Global Digital Soil Map is
collecting data from the field. With the help of Mobile GIS the collecting of field data or completing field
surveys is becoming very easier than ever. The main objective of this proposal is using Mobile Data
Collection for the purpose of WEBGIS of Global Digital Soil Map. This new technology is very easy to
use and all we need is a mobile phone and software to be installed. With the help of this technology,
two kind of information can be collected in a real-time fashion.
Soil survey data
The location information
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Soil data that are collected using the software which installed in the Mobile. Soil data collecting is in
point data descriptions. These types of data are collected by Experts using Mobile in the field. The time
interval from the field survey to the time of availability in WEBGIS is about few seconds. As soon as the
data are gathered in the WEBGIS Database, they are organized and summarized to create new digital
soil maps or updating current soil maps. Using the GPS in Mobile, location information is also available.
By this way, simply data into a map layer created in WEBGIS in real time and data can immediately be
analyzed and publicly be available. It makes accurate, timely soil map and information available to
everyone, everywhere, and anytime.
58. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
My sincere suggestions already submitted during last discussion may be well respected and placed for
current interactions, wherein soil health is the central theme. Apart from earlier ones, I humbly wish
to critically review the following additional information:
(i) There must be some quantitative approach to integrate the top soil (0-20 cm depth) with whole soil
(pedon)in order to mitigate the expected limitation caused due to partial factor productivity.
(ii) Edaphology and Pedology must work together to restore soil's sustainability.
(iii)The index of soil health needs to be quantified on whole soil basis.
(iv) Let some specific soil quality be the real indicator of climate change, such as "Photopedogenesis"
as well as "Diurnal Thermal change".
(v)There must be sub-regional soil partnership group and I humbly wish to contribute.
(vi) Soil science must be respected as the discipline of top priority in any food security initiative.
59. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Soil has been well recognized in the process of vital activities contributing to food security, but not so
sincerely. As a result, experts from other disciplines like Farm science or Agronomy or Horticulture do
claim to be equally good to cover soil science. This is because, we consider mostly about top soil and
their fertility status. This is not true. Soil scientists have to characterize the soil, evaluate its
potentiality, identify soil suitability for specific type of land use followed by fertility evaluation and
fertilizer recommendation including amelioration, if any. EFS has to develop a strong culture and base
for soil scientists to act for the cause of food security. The term "Food security" needs to be re-defined
by FAO, where soil scientists have to work for specific goal, which other experts hardly complete. Let
this EСFS invite soil scientists for welcoming the 2015 as Year of Soil and thus for gross happiness in
the world.
60. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Soil classification must serve the objective of food security. Unfortunately, it suffers from regional
scientific conflict and the outcome remains incomplete. Let soil classification be based on soil
productivity, quality and suitability on global basis. Select identical yardstick and look for a success
story in framing the classification scheme.
I hope, the efforts being made for development of Universal Soil Classification may come up in its
completeness and will be acceptable globally. I have proposed a new approach for Indian soil
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classification. The efforts to be made for food security must be linked to soil classification in all
fairness.
Indian_CMSI_BBMishra(2).docx
Soil Importance / Важность почв (доступно на англ.)
61. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra India, Bihar Agricultural University
Global soil Partnership needs to have more transparency and as such, there may be some provision for
Regional groups. Soil differs from place to place and there is complex type of diversity. The Regional
groups can only help to generate such huge data base.
62. Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov Russian Federation, ECFS
Dear colleagues!
First of all, I would like to thank everyone who took part in our online consultation.
I think that the main objective of our work has been achieved: we have been able to share our opinions
on the priority issues in the management of natural resources, and on priority issues when creating
the Eurasian Soil Partnership (EASP). We are pleased that many forum participants have also offered
generously their materials and simply their reflections on many issues that have to do with the land
resources.
As a result of the discussion, I think, we have managed to identify the following priority issues that
should be considered when creating the EASP:
1. The issues of the relationship between water and soil. As you know, millions of hectares of land
are irrigated artificially at present, and it is difficult to overestimate the value of irrigation in
the Eurasian region. Accordingly, the issues of sources and quality of water certainly should be
addressed in the soil partnership.
2. The relationship of the issues of cultivation of soil and land degradation with the political,
social and economic factors. Obviously, in order to protect and use soil effectively, it is
necessary to establish a constructive dialogue with politicians and decision makers.
3. The issues of organic farming. This is a rather broad topic that includes the scientific
justification of the cultivation systems, and the issues of health safety of products, as well as
the economic basis of activity.
4. The generalization and standardization of existing soil information and updating soil data
through new rounds of soil surveys, a system of joint monitoring, the participation in
international programs for the collection and processing of soil data.
I will not repeat all the proposals made at the forum: they are well reflected in the digests prepared by
our colleagues in FAO. I can assure you that all these proposals will be reflected in the documents that
will be prepared for the workshop that completes our online consultation.
According to our plan, a workshop will be held on 18-22 November in Moscow, where the results of
the forum will be summarized, and the issues of the formation of a network on food security in the
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Eurasian region will be discussed and the regional Eurasian Soil Partnership will be opened. All active
participants in the forum will be invited to the meeting.
Therefore, we do not say goodbye to you, and we look forward to meeting you in Moscow. Once again I
take this opportunity to thank everyone for their participation.
Dr. Pavel Krasilnikov, ECFS, the Russian Federation, a facilitator of the online consultation
63. Dr. Svetlana Ivanova, Russian Federation, International Plant Nutrition Institute
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov,
I have registered to online consultation of the Eurasian Food Security Network, but unfortunately due
to a business trip I have not been able to take an active part in the discussion. Today I have carefully
examined all the materials of the online consultation and I have a few comments that may extend a
range of priority issues that should be considered when creating the EASP.
During the discussion an important point has not been addressed, without which the sustainable
management of the agricultural production in the region is impossible. I have in mind the
development and implementation of the systems of rational mineral fertilizer application for modern
high-yielding agricultural technologies, including a system of minimum soil treatment. Currently,
almost in all countries of the EECA region (Eastern Europe and Central Asia), the consumption of
mineral fertilizers is extremely low. As a result, the average yield is several times lower than the
potentially attainable yields. This point is relevant to the food security issue.
In addition to that, non-compensated removal of mineral nutrients leads to a negative balance of
nutrients in arable soils, and results in a reduction in soil fertility and degradation of arable soils.
Therefore, the development and implementation of systems of rational use of mineral fertilizers on the
principles of sustainable agriculture (for, example, 4R Nutrient Stewarship http://www.ipni.net/4R) is
a very topical issue for the region. Besides, there is a related problem - the existing methods for the
determination in soil of available for plants forms of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as
gradations developed for these methods on the degree of availability of soil nutrients (especially for
potassium) are not completely adequate.
The problem is that the methods developed in the USSR for the determination of available for plants
forms of phosphorus and potassium, and the corresponding grades for security do not reliably allow to
conduct soil monitoring and diagnostics of soil in terms of mineral nutrients, especially in high-yield
agricultural production. Thus, I propose to include the following priority issues:
1. Development and implementation of systems of rational use of mineral fertilizers on the principles
of sustainable agriculture.
2. Development and implementation of modern methods of determining the existence in soil the forms
of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium available for plants in order to monitor fertility and to develop
the modern systems of rational use of fertilizers.
The International Plant Nutrition Institute (www.ipni.net) which I have the honor to represent has an
extensive experience in setting and conducting the research projects designed to address the problems
mentioned above. Currently, we have active research projects in Russia and Ukraine, as well as a large
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amount of print and presentation materials on the subject. See our Russian site http://eecaru.ipni.net/ .
I will enthusiastically take part in the workshop, which is to be held in Moscow in November.
If you need any further information, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Svetlana Ivanova.
64. Murod Ergashev, Tajikistan, Tajik Academy of Agricultural Sciences
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov
I have read and aware of the entire Eurasian Network of Food Security online consultation, but
because of the business trips I have not been able to take an active part in the discussion. After a
detailed discussion, I also have a couple of comments that should be considered when establishing the
EASP.
The issue relates to soil salinity. In Tajikistan, this issue is crucial because churlish soil covers over 200
000 hectares and introducing it to agricultural production would require large capital investments. In
the course of the discussion the issue of biological soil control has not been addressed, i.e. the
biotechnological drainage without which sustainable land use management is not possible.
Biotechnological drainage is a multifaceted problem, which has a lot of aspects within individual
disciplines. This is due to the fact that the drainage functions integrate into a unified system the
representatives of vegetation - trees, shrubs, i.e. living organisms, as well as the horizontal
components of hydraulic engineering drainage - drains and reservoirs.
In this regard, the artificially produced biotech plantations, and emerging research facilities should be
systematic in nature, i.e. to be formed on the basis of a systematic approach and analyzed as a whole
system. Some of its individual components should be also analyzed. Another feature of the biotech
plantations is the long-term nature of their main component - the trees, and due to this fact the
answers to the queries of both scientific and economic content are obtained after many years of their
growth.
The third feature of the biotech drain plantations relates to the fact that in many settlements their
production should heavily rely on the support of the population. In the face of the increasing load
factor, the artificial tree and shrub plantings have become critical in protecting environment.
Therefore it would be safe to say that in the development of society trees and plantings will never be
superfluous.
The biotechnological drainage has been preceded by such soil improving actions as biomelioration.
However, it turned out to be outside the drainage issues, though some part of both the term and its
operations implied that it is close to the drainage, but do not envisage the active control or prevention
of soil salinization. The laboratories and specialists are the main sources of the biotechnological
drainage, as they produced large volumes of theoretical and practical knowledge of hydraulic drainage.
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The ideas of the biological impact on natural processes belong to such classics of Russian science as
V.V. Dokuchaev, P. A. Kostychev, A. I. Vojkov, G. W. Vysotskiy, and others. A special role in this respect
they have given to forests. These ideas retain their scientific value to this day.
Biodrainage and biomelioration mean the regulation of water-salt balance and irrigation regimes, as
well as optimization of the properties of soil, air and groundwater of agricultural landscape with
specially organized plantations of trees and bushes as well as the high-yielding crops on irrigated
fields. Integrated with the existing hydraulic drainage the biodrainage and biomelioration form the
biotechnological drainage sub-system within the irrigation systems.
The term biodrainage means the transpiration by plants, mostly trees, out of stocks in soil, of
groundwater seepage water. This is one of the biological parts of the complex system of melioration of
irrigated agricultural landscape. The other part consists of crops on cultivated fields, and the third part
consists of hydro-agricultural landscape with drainage channels, the so-called drains and reservoirs.
It is clear from the definition that biodrainage is not an alternative to hydraulic engineering drainage
and to other activities in the landscape, but on the contrary, it is integrated into their drainage and
soil-melioration functions.
Sincerely,
Murod Ergashev
Candidate of Agricultural Sciences,
Senior Scientific Officer of the
Department of Land Reclamation and Soil Physics of the Institute of Soil Science,
Tajik Academy of Agricultural Sciences
65. Dr. Shukhrat Mukhamejanov, Uzbekistan, Scientific Information Centre of the Inter-State
Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia
Dear Dr. Krasilnikov
To my deep regret, for technical reasons, I have not been not able to register on the online consultation
website of the Eurasian Food Security Network. Still, I would like to express some of my thoughts
about the open network discussion. First, I want to say that this is a very good practice and would like
to thank you and all those who initiated this online discussion. Since I represent the Scientific
Information Centre of the Inter-State Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia, I would like
to address the issues of water resources and its importance for food security.
Degradation of fertile topsoil is caused by both an excessive use of irrigation water and its constant
shortage in using all other resources and other agents applied in the cultivation of agricultural crops. A
very important aspect in achieving the productivity of land and management of land resources is the
rational water use, taking into account the soil conditions of each locality.
However, in recent years, with the reorganization (after the collapse of the USSR) of agriculture and
water resources in all the States of the former Union, we have faced the problem of lack of effective
irrigation water management in the newly formed structures (Water Users Associations and farms).
The result is a significant productivity reduction of both water and soil, the wasteful use of land and
water resources. It is important and necessary when considering the food security issue to pay serious
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attention to the development of technologies aimed at effective use of resources and tools to manage
them both at the level of delivery of these resources and at the level of users.
It is very important to jointly consider the issues relating to the use of irrigation water with questions
of agronomic character since they are closely interrelated. At present, we have a large archive of
knowledge and technology accumulated by the research institutes left as a legacy from the time of the
Soviet Union. We need to use them to supplement current achievements and, what is the most
important thing, to bring them to users.
I'll be glad to share with you my thoughts and more specifically explain in detail our approach in the
context of what has been said.
With kind regards,
The Program Manager for Improvement of Water and Land Productivity,
Dr. Shukhrat Mukhamejanov
Scientific Information Centre of the Inter-State Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia
66. Г-н Иван Айдаров, Russian Federation, Российская академия сельскохозяйственных
наук (РАСХН)
Dear Prof. Krasilnikov!
The proposal of Mr. Ergashev touches upon an important problem concerning not only and not just
salinity issue as an increase of biodiversity, environmental sustainability of agricultural landscapes,
climate control, and, for the most part, a prevention of wind and water erosion of irrigated lands and
rangelands. All these problems are reflected in the publications of Budyko, Averianov, Aidarov,
Bazilevich, Ramenkiy and many other scientists.
Sincerely,
I. Aydarov.
67. Prof. Bipin Bihari Mishra, India, Bihar Agricultural Universit
Dear Sir,
Soil biodiversity as well as biotechnological drainage are the most emerging soil related aspects, which
must be looked into sincerely. Recently, I proposed a very specific soil named as "Microbisols" as well
as "Immobisols". The FAO should strengthen such imerging activities for the cause of food security in a
big way. Soil bioengineering must be identified within the priority areas of FAO or EFS major
initiatives. In Immobisols (common in Ethiopia, developed on basalt) having clay content upto 80-85%
(mostly smectite)indicate virtually no drainage problem because of granular or crumb structue
followed by blocky structure down the depth. I welcome the comments.
Bipin Bihari Mishra, BAU, Sabour, India
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68. Г-н Иван Айдаров, Russian Federation, Российская академия сельскохозяйственных
наук (РАСХН)
Dear Prof. Krasilnikov!
Mr. Mukhammedzhanov is absolutely right. One of the basic principles of irrigated agriculture is that
the plants and the soil should receive a well-defined quantity of water. Scarcity or surplus of water
reduces not only yield but also soil fertility and an efficient use of water resources in Central Asia,
which are limited. One of the criteria of optimality of the water regime of irrigated land is a condition
of coherent water, thermal and biological soil regime that is not respected in irrigated agriculture of
Central Asia.
Sincerely,
I. Aydarov
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