Research Institutes

International Agrohydrology Research and Training Center (IARTC)

GDRS operates 12 Research Institutes to develop a sound scientific base for its infrastructural services. The Institutes research places great importance in sustainable environmental protection, focusing upon four principal research areas : Catchment Management Research : Research is undertaken to develop biological and physical measures to combat soil erosion. Studies are undertaken to investigate soil moisture conservation and the relationship between rainfall, runoff and sedimentation at the catchment scale. This work involves the use of soil loss estimation models, erosion mapping and measurement and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Water Management Research : Research is undertaken to improve the yield and quality of irrigated crops through the design of efficient management systems for irrigation and drainage. Measures are developed to increase irrigation efficiency, considering the possibilities of using wastewater in agriculture and of reducing waterlogging and salinity risks in irrigated areas by taking proper precautions. Land reclamation techniques are also developed. Soil Management Research : Research is undertaken to protect and improve the sustainable fertility of agricultural soils. To do this, the effects of macro- and micro-nutrients on agricultural production are determined. Further research identifies the causes of soil pollution and considers the possibilities of using solid waste in agriculture. Investment Management Research : Research is undertaken to define the benefits of agricultural investment projects, and to conduct economical analyses of land consolidation and research investments, and of input optimisation for agricultural investments. Socio-economic problems affecting agricultural development are determined through the development of financial models for rural communities. The findings of the research activities of GDRS are disseminated in printed form to the farming community through an agricultural extension service, as well as being published in international journals. Other research results are fed into the project planning process. GDRS has strong research ties with other national organisations including: the State Planning Organisation (DPT), the Turkish Scientific Board (TUBİTAK), the National Atomic Agency (TAEK), the State Hydraulic Works (DSİ), the Agricultural Faculties, the Ministry of Agriculture and the GAP Regional Administration Office. This takes the form of joint projects, shared committees and laboratory analysis and consultancy. The GDRS Research Institutes also have good international relations and joint project contracts with overseas university and external research sources, including: Cranfield University (UK), ICARDA, FAO, IWMI, IAEA, CIMMYT, IPI and IMPHOS. Top of the page Regional Directorates Research Institutes Machinery Supply Directorates Project Directorates Training Centre Directorates Prepared by Soil and Water Resources Research Section.