Public Works Programs as a Strong Means for Land and Water Conservation in Iran

In the past three decades, agriculture has expanded very rapidly and the main source of irrigation has been underground water in Iran. Mistaken policies regarding extraction of underground water and inefficient supervision on the loans that were allocated for renovation of irrigation system were the main reasons behind the water crisis in Iran. At the same time, the country faced the problem of increasing unemployment and underemployment, especially in dry lands and drought-stricken regions. With rising poverty and malnourishment, crimes and social problems grew very rapidly; conserving water and land and creating job opportunities became the most important priorities. Farming return is generally low, and private firms do not want to run the risk of investing in agricultural activities. Public works program is an effective means to prevent agricultural problems from becoming a catastrophe. Projects which involve direct involvement of local communities, such as providing water delivery systems, drainage, sewage, and sanitation, help to generate employment opportunities and avoid poverty and its social consequences. Public works schemes can mitigate the threat of expanding water crisis and revitalize the agricultural sector through government investment and direct involvement of local beneficiaries.