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Is small better ? a comparison of the effect of large and small dams on cropland productivity in South Africa

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  • Blanc, Elodie
  • Strobl, Eric

Abstract

This study estimates and compares the effects of small and large irrigation dams on cropland productivity in South Africa. To this end, a panel data set of South African river basins is constructed. The econometric analysis reveals that although large dams increase cropland productivity downstream, they have a negative effect on cropland within the vicinity. However, their existence can enhance the relatively small positive impact of local small dams. Although a cost-benefit analysis of irrigation benefits shows that small dams may be more viable than large ones, large dams can play a potentially important role within a system of both types of dams.

Suggested Citation

  • Blanc, Elodie & Strobl, Eric, 2013. "Is small better ? a comparison of the effect of large and small dams on cropland productivity in South Africa," Policy Research Working Paper Series 6567, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:6567
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    Cited by:

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    12. He, Xi, 2023. "Dams, cropland productivity, and economic development in China," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 81(C).
    13. Mettetal, Elizabeth, 2019. "Irrigation dams, water and infant mortality: Evidence from South Africa," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 138(C), pages 17-40.
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    15. Samuel Adams & Michael Martey & Charles Amoatey & Joseph Taabazuing & Richard Otoo & Emmanuel Abokyi, 2024. "An Exploratory Study of the Impact of the One-Village-One-Dam Initiative in Northern Ghana," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(19), pages 1-17, October.
    16. Russ,Jason Daniel & Zaveri,Esha Dilip & Damania,Richard & Desbureaux,Sebastien Gael & Escurra,Jorge Jose & Rodella,Aude-Sophie, 2020. "Salt of the Earth : Quantifying the Impact of Water Salinity on Global Agricultural Productivity," Policy Research Working Paper Series 9144, The World Bank.
    17. Zaveri, Esha D. & Russ, Jason & Damania, Richard, 2017. "Drenched Fields and Parched Farms: Evidence along the Extensive and Intensive Margins," 2017 Annual Meeting, July 30-August 1, Chicago, Illinois 258409, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.

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    Keywords

    River Basin Management; Dams and Reservoirs; Hydro Power; Water and Energy; Water Supply and Systems;
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