NATURAL

RESOURCES
 NATURAL RESOURCES

NATURAL RESOURCES
Natural Resources Division (NRD) has a diverse research scope as it handles multiple resources,
each one with specific and complex issues in different ecologies of the country. Natural Resources
Division is the 2nd largest technical division of PARC in terms of research scope, human resource and
infrastructure including lab facilities spread over a vast landscape ranging from coastal belt of
Balochistan and Sindh to subalpine zone in Gilgit-Baltistan. It covers major agro-ecological regions of
Pakistan including rainfed, irrigated plains, deserts, rod-kohi areas and the mountains .

1 . Efficient Soil Nutrient Management

Efficient management of soil nutrients is extremely important for improved crop yield on sustainable
basis with low or least negative environmental effects . Fertilizers in Pakistan are not used in a planned
manner. Resultantly not only the costs of agricultural commodities/products are increased but the
environment particularly the water and soil health are also impoverished . Crop yields can be optimized
with balanced use of nutrients and integrating organic and mineral sources of plant nutrients . PARC
has been conducting research on identification of quality nutrients and evolving technologies for
efficient fertilizers use . The activities continued during the year 2012-13 . The results have been quite
encouraging .

1 .1 Extract, Quantify and Characterize Humic Substances Derived from Coal

The amount of humic acid (HA)

extracted from coal ranged from 2 @Grain yield " Straw yield
to 37% depending upon the nature
of material and extracting material 6000
used . The range of different 5500
nutrients present in humic acid is 5000
Nitrogen (N), 0 .12-1 .53% ; 4500
Phosphorus (P), 0 .04-0 .1% ; 4000
Potassium (K), 0.3-0 .84% ; Iron 3500
(Fe) . 0 .24-0 .88% ; Zinc (Zn), 31- 3000
59mg kg ; Copper (Cu), 2.6-19 mg 2500
kg-' and Manganese (Mn), 22-79 2000
mg kg' . Whereas, recovery of coal 1500
derived fulvic acid varied from 5 to 7 1000
r1PK Zn + B NPK Zn + B+ HA
and that of humic acid from 10 to
35% . Figure-1 : Effect of humic acid applied as soil application on wheat

In a field experiment conducted at Karor area of District Layyah, use of Integrated Plant Nutrient
Management (IPNM) and humic acid @ 25 kg ha-',resulted in an increase of 600 kg ha' in wheat grain
yield (Figure-1) . Application of humic acid not only increased the yield but also affected the nutrients
composition of wheat.

1 .2 Integrated Effect of Humic Acid and Bio-fertilizer on Yield and Phosphorus Use
Efficiency in Mung bean under Rainfed Conditions

In a field study, integrated effects of humic acid and bio fertilizer on yield and phosphorus use
efficiency in mung bean were assessed under rainfed conditions . The highest mung bean grain yield
(1 .96 t ha-') was recorded under treatment where humic acid applied @ 50 kgha' along with 60 kgha'
P_O- with PGPR inoculation . It was 19% more than the treatment receiving 100% P alone.

1 .3 Effect of Application of Humic Acid on Onion Yield

Application of plant derived humic acid a 0, 15, 30 and 45 mg L- 'on onion under field condition .
increased the bulb yield from 6 to 22% (Figure-2.)

Figure 2: Effect of Application of Humic Acid on Onion Yield

1 .4 Zinc Requirement of Local and Hybrid Maize Cultivars Grown under Field Condition

Field experiments were carried out on selected

maize cultivars on a silty clay loam Gujranwala soil
having AB-DTPA Zn, 0.49 mg kg'with 0, 2, 4, 8, 16 kg
Zn ha and 0.1% foliar spray. Soil-application
increased grain yield by 30% of hybrid maize and
22% of local maize over control (Figure-3) . The
results indicate that Zn use in deficient situations
enhances maize productivity. Zinc fertilization is
highly cost-effective, and fertilizer requirement is
about 2-2.5 kg Zn ha-1
. Figure-3: Response of maize to Zn fertilization

1 .5 Integrated Effects of PGPR plus PSB and Chemical Fertilizers on Maize

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria can enhance crop growth and also colonizing roots which has
significant effect on growth of plant. In a research study the inoculation of PGPR + PSB(Phosphorus
Solubilizing Bacteria) at recommended NP and at 75% of recommended NP significantly increased

Figure-4 :Recommended NP PGPR + 314NP

 NATURAL RESOURCES

chlorophyll contents, number of leaves per plant. plant height, ear leaf area, ear internodes girth, flag
leaf area, grain and straw yields over un-inoculated recommended NP Results showed (Figure-4) co-
inoculation of PGPR (Mixture of 4 strains) and PSB with 25% less fertilizers improved growth and yield
parameters by 10-25% . Inoculation with recommended NP fertilizer application, the growth and yield
parameters improved by 40% .

1 .6 Isolation, Characterization of PGPR and PSB Isolates from Root Rhizosphere of

Sugarcane and Screening fortheir Effect on Growth Parameters

Five promising strains showing maximum results of Indol

Acetic Acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilization,
sidrophore production etc . were selected to study their
effects on growth parameters (Figure-5) .Out of five,
three PGPR strains (RS 17 AT RP 17 00 and ES 17
watery) of sugarcane were selected for field testing .

1 .7 Comparison of Seed Coated and Fertilizer

Coated PGPR's on Growth and Yield
Parameters of Wheat

Biozote, the biofertilizer developed by PARC has shown

significant effects on productivity of various crops . The
Biozote, through seed coating of wheat with 100%
recommended NP fertilizer gave best results when
compared with other fertilizer coated formulations . The
seed coated Biozote even at 25% less NP applied
showed better results than fertilizer coated formulations .
Figure-5: Effect of PGPR strain RS 17
1 .8 Commercialization of Biozote (Biofertilizer)
on sugarcane

Three biofertilizer products with commercial trade names Biozote-N, Biozote-P and Biozote-Max were
developed at NARC. Field testing and demonstration were carried out at farmers' fields . research
farms of the Provincial and Federal organizations in collaboration with private sector. For most of the
crops Biozote application showed 10-30% increased yield . These products are being registered with
Government of Punjab for expediting their marketing .

Figure 6 : Rhizobium-Nitrogen Plant growth promoting Y~~~ ~11 Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria
fixing bacteria rhizo-bacteria
1 .9 Effect of Bio-fertilizer on Grain Yield of Wheat Crop at D .I .Khan

The wheat yield increased by 28% with application of bizote @ 2 .5 kg ha'and NP 90-90 kg ha' than
the yield obtained with 90-90 kg ha' NP alone. The lowest grain yield was recorded under control
treatment. A production package will be developed for the use of farmers after confirmation of the
results at the research farm and farmer's field and disseminated to the end users through field days,
training workshops and radio talks etc.

1 .10 Effect of Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Wheat under Rainfed Conditions

Sulphur (S) is one of the essential nutrients for plant growth and it accumulates 0 .05-0 .2 % plant tissue
on dry matter basis . Wheat requires a relatively high amount of S due to incompatible conditions with
its period of most rapid growth during early spring, when the rate of S release from soil organic matter
is quite slow. Keeping this phenomenon in view the effect of S on growth and yield of wheat crop was
studied . The highest grain yield (6.01 t ha-') was attained with 50 kg S ha which was 23% higher than
the control . Applied S enhanced S content in grain and the highest content (0 .254 mg kg') was
recorded . As such Sulfur application is beneficial in enhancing wheat yield .

1 .11 Response of Wheatto Soil and FoliarApplication of KZSO,Fertilizer

A research study revealed that 2 percent foliar application of K,SO, gives the maximum wheat yield
(3.85 t ha') as compared to soil application (3 .06 t ha-. ) . Approximately two third K fertilizer can be
saved with foliar application as compared to soil application .

1 .12 Vermiculture and Vermicomposting ; Natural

Means of Improving Productivity

A newly established vermiculture and vermicomposting

research unit at NARC tested animal manure, parthenium
foliage, wheat straw, common grass, sesbania foliage in
different combinations as substrate for indigenous as well
as exotic earthworms (Eiseniafetida) . Combinations of
sesbania or parthenium with animal dung and soil in 2 :1 :1
ratio proved best to increase number of earthworms in
one month . The vermicomposts, have C/N 16 :1 ; N,0.69-
1 .23% ; P 0 .15-0 .25% ; K,0.17-0 .27%. Zinc was highest
(100mg/kg) in Parthenium derived vermicompost (Figure-
6) .
Figure- 7:Vermicompost from Parthenium
2. Improving Soil Health and Environment

Soil quality is being degraded due to imbalance fertilizer use, continual nutrient mining from soils
through high cropping intensity, introducing high yielding crops and low use of organic manures . This
may lead to a level when it might be difficult to control the process of soil degradation .

2 .1 Metal Removal Capacity of Modified Agricultural Byproducts from Aqueous Solution

The lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu) removal capacity (natural
and modified) of corn cob, wheat straw, sugarcane bagasse, rice husk . sunflower head, banana stalk,
coconut shell fiber and saw dust was explored . All the tested lignocellulosis materials sorbed high
 NATURAL RESOURCES

Figure-8 . Metals removal percentage of agricultural Figure-9. Metals removal percentage of untreated and
byproducts sorbents treated agricultural byproducts sorbents .

percentage of Pb ranging from 70 to 96% (Figure-7) The order of Pb sorption was corn cob > coconut
fiber > dust> sunflower head > banana stalk > wheat straw > rice husk >sugarcanebagasse . While
Cd removal was minimum by all the lignocellulosic materials and corn cob removed maximum Cu
(95%) whereas other material removed between 47% and 70% . While comprising the sorbents, corn
cob showed the highest metal sorption capacity (means of all metals) modified lignocellulosic
materials removed more metals than untreated (Figure-8) and almost similar removal increase over
control was observed in all materials . Increase in metal sorption and hence metal removal was higher
when sunflower head, saw dust, and sugarcane bagasse was treated with NaOH than other chemical
treatment . On the other hand, larger increase in metal sorption capacityof corn cob, rice husk, wheat
straw and banana stalk by rest of the surfactants has also been observed .

It is concluded that modified and unmodified agricultural byproducts have metal sorption capacity
and hence could be used as potential sorbents for remediation ofwastewaters .

2 .2 Biological Enhanced Phyto-remediation of Metal Contaminated Soil by Sorghum

Indigenous bacteria were isolated from polluted sites and their bio-remedial potential was assessed
by conducting phyto-remediation experimentation on sorghum . There were five seed treatments 1)
un-inoculated, 2) inoculated with GS2 strain, 3) GS5 strain, 4) GS10 strain and 5) GS20 strain . Forty five
days old plants were harvested and analyzed for heavy metals concentration . Sorghum dry shoots
and roots remained unaffected by the inoculation on HMT bacterial strains . However, metals uptake by
shoot was affected significantly by all bacterial strains . Total uptake of metals by sorghums plants
revealed that all the bacterial strains significantly increased the metal uptake compared to control .
Maximum Cd and Cr uptake increase was 100% and 140% over control by GS10 strain inoculation .
However, GS5 was equally good for increasing Cr uptake i .e . 123%, while GS2 and GS20 strains
increased 73% Cd and 81 and 100 % Cr. All the bacterial strains significantly increased the metal
uptake compared to control and possessed a good phyto-remediation potential .

2 .3 Removal of Metal from Aqueous Solution (Synthetic Wastewater) using Cobs, Press
Mud and Wheat Straw in Glass Column Bioreactor

Locally available agricultural waste materials, i .e . corn cob, wheat straw and press mud, already
evaluated for their metal sorption were used as sorbents . Results showed that:

Biosorption of the ,Tieallic ions was more intense in treated lignocellulosic materials than
untreated inert material .
 " The metal sorbent used in this work i .e. press mud, wheat straw and corn cob have the
potential for removing heavy metal ions from wastewater.

The soils have very high metal sorption capacity and most of the applied metals were
adsorbed during the leaching process .

The metal ion transport was more a function of convective flow than dispersive flow.

2.4 Effect of Residue Incorporation and Surface Mulching on Carbon and Nitrogen
Mineralization Dynamics

Recycling of plant residues into

100
agricultural soils can sustain organic Soil
carbon content, improve soil physical 80 ----- Rice incorporated
U
properties, enhance biological Rice mulched
activities, and increase nutrient 60 Wheat incorporated
availability. Ground materials of rice and - - - Wheat mullched
d =0 40
wheat residues were added to soil and
incubated at 30 - C under laboratory 20
0
conditions . Residue incorporated
0
treatments released higher rates of C
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
than mulched . Application of wheat Incubation period (days)
residue released higher amounts of
Figure-10 Effect of residue incorporation and mulching
nitrate nitrogen than rice residue . onCO2release
Mulching of wheat residue produces
greater amounts of nitrate N than incorporated . While reverse was true for rice residue . There was
significant difference among the residue application methods being the highest in incorporated than
in mulched . Residue incorporated resulted in faster decomposition than surface mulching (Figure-9) .

3. Water and Watershed Management Interventions for Enhanced Crop

Productivity

Decreasing water availability, higher input costs, and changing environmental conditions are posing
threats to agricultural productivity. Solutions being multifaceted are not easy. It is believed that
deficient water supply for irrigation will be the norm rather than exception . Irrigation management is
shifting from emphasizing on production per unit area towards per unit of water consumed i .e. the
water productivity. The productivity of water is very low in Pakistan due to conventional irrigation
methods and poor agronomic practices . The available water has to be used wisely by introducing
innovative and high efficiency irrigation systems . Moreover, watershed management approaches
seek to effectively protect water resources by taking into account entire watershed of the reservoir.
Unfortunately, human activities are negatively affecting watersheds by increasing amount of runoff
and causing erosion . The local livelihoods are also affected .

3.1 Water Productivity of Crops under Centre Pivot Sprinkler Irrigation System (CPIS)

PARC has installed five center pivot irrigation systems, one each at NARC, Bahawalpur, Thana Bulla
Khan, Quetta and D.I .Khan of different sizes (8-92 acres) in the country . The systems were evaluated
for hydraulic performance . Recommended procedure by American Society of Agricultural Engineers
(ASAE) were adopted for measurement of water distribution uniformity (DU) and coefficient of
uniformity (CU) .

78 'AKISTAN AGRICULTURE RESEARCH COUNCIL

 NATURAL RESOURCES

3.1 .1 CAEWRI, NARC

200 168
An experiment was designed
to evaluate water productivity 1 ~ NVheat
150
under CPIS . Four irrigation . C:anola
management strategies 76
100
showing the quantity of
irrigation water applied ; I
50
(100 % of ET), I;, (80 % of ET),
I ; (60 % of ET), and I, (Rain
0
fed) for wheat and canola
crops were evaluated I-1 : 100 % ET I-2 : 80 % ET I-3 : 60 % ET
(Figure-10) . Irrigation management strategies

Salient Achievements : Figure-11 Irrigation Management Strategies for Water

The water application uniformity of the centre pivot system varied from 75 to 90 % . This shows
the satisfactory performance of the system .

Results indicate that wheat grain yield can be enhanced up to 168 % than the rain fed by
applying full irrigation requirement during the season .

Canola yield can be enhanced up to 51 % and 76 % than the rainfed by fulfilling 85 % and 100
crop water requirement .

Future Thrust:

Hydraulic performance of the CPIS will continue in Rabi and Kharif season to evaluate the
system water application and distribution in the field .

19 Irrigation management strategies for other crops will be evaluated and cropping system net
benefit will be studied .

3.1 .2 Arid Zone Research Institute, (AZRI) Bahawalpur

" The Center-pivot sprinkler irrigation system was made fully functional for seed multiplication
and crop production at AZRI, Hydraulic performance of the system is being evaluated in arid
environment of Bahawalpur.

Salient Achievement:

The system is now being utilized for trials on an area of 19 .5 acres . Efficiency of the system is very
good, keeping the crops in a healthier condition . Field demonstrations of the system have been
carried out . Brochures in Urdu have also been published and distributed among potential end-users .

Future Thrust :

" Supplementary irrigation along-with different fertilizer treatments to various major crops will be
conducted .
3 .1 .3 Arid Zone Research Institute, D. I . Khan

The operation of centre pivot irrigation system at AZRI farm in clay soil is difficult and needs more
emphasis on its use at critical crop stage with canal water. A blend of canal and CPIS can be used to
fulfill the crop demand and healthy seed production . Thus, water course was developed from CRBC
minorto irrigatethe land under CPIS .

Salient Achievements:

" Wheat variety 'Hashim 2008' was sown on 4 acres out of 19 acres of land prepared due to
scarcity of operational funds . The crop yield from 4 acres is reported as 3500 kg .

Future Thrust:

" Derivation of packages of technology for optimum water productivity for seed and crop
production under CPIS .

" Demonstrate and disseminate state of the art irrigation technologies to farmers, extension
workers, researchers and planners .

3.1 .4 Arid Zone Research Centre, Quetta

" The system is being utilized for field crop production under rainfed conditions of Balochistan . It
is not fully functional as irrigation water for full circle operation is not available . However, the
system is being used for research trials which otherwise would not have been possible .

Salient Achievements .

" CPIS was used to irrigate a trial on production efficiency of mung bean through seed
inoculation & NP The yield with treated seed increasedupto 52 % as compared to control .

" Similarly Chakwal mash 97 and Urooj-10 were tested in rainfed conditions of Balochistan
under CPIS. Chakwal-97 with treatment Inoculum + N+P produced best results with higher
water productivity.

Future Thrust

" Water productivity will be assessed for advance genotypes of important crops .

" Use of CPIS will be evaluated for important crops under harsh conditions of Balochistan .

3.2 Rooftop Rain Water Harvesting for Kitchen Gardening

Rooftop water harvesting is a well known practice particularly in the water scarce hilly areas where the
iron sheets are mostly used as roof tops . Water thus collected is used for various purposes . An
innovation in the practice has been introduced to make best use of the valuable resource . Roof water
is collected in a storage facility through a network of pipes and valves for productive use (Figure-11) .
This water can be used for various highly productive activities like kitchen gardening, livestock rearing,
environmental and amenity purposes and for non-potable domestic requirements (e .g . washing,
cleaning etc) . Rooftop water harvesting systems were designed for Ghoragali and Aarokus areas of
Rawal watershed and installed at 11 sites . The major objective was to engage women within their
 NATURAL RESOURCES

homes for Kitchen gardening

Drip Irrigation under Rooftop Water Harvesting
activity. One system has been
installed in a primary school, that
is benefitting 58 students . Out
scaling of the intervention has
been planned as future thrust of
the project .
Roof CatchmentArea: 1500 sq.ft~

3 .3 Environment Friendly Sae of overhead Tank : 70016e

Food Security Model Sae of Underground Tank: 1500 I4ri.; .;w.

To promote the food security by

increasing cropping intensity in
Potohar, the water conservation
was rightly considered as utmost g S
important activity during rainy ;order uiouno Tarr.~

seasons for subsequent

utilization . Massive investments Figure 12 Rooftop water harvesting and use for drip irrigation
were made by the government Potential Utilization of Mini Dams :
to harvest waters by PARC Model
constructing small dams and
Mini dams at appropriate
locations . It was expected that
by constructing water reservoirs
the uncertainty for agricultural
activities will be minimized and
rural livelihood will be improved.
The government later on also
started investing in lift irrigation
schemes and introduced high
efficiency irrigation systems
(Drip & Sprinkler) to improve
water productivity but could not
sustain due to high operational
cost, Figure-13 PARC model for food security in command areas of mini dams

PARC took lead and developed a model covering over 20 acres for demonstration purposes at
Fatehjang with an integrated approach to resolve issues of catchment management, energy crisis and
command area development through intensive and high value agricultural practices . The model when
adopted at larger scale will not only resolve the food security problems but also help mitigate the
negative impacts of climate change as all technologies integrated for development of agriculture in
command area are environment friendly.

Salient Achievement :

" Developed a solar system comprised of 5000 watts and 5HP DC motor integrated with
submersible pump and installed to lift water from the mini dam.

" Established solar driven sprinkler, drip and furrow bed irrigation systems for cereal crops and
 orchards on an area of 20 acres .

" Raised high value crops in tunnels under solar driven drip irrigation system .

Future Thrust:

" Up-scaling the environment friendly and food security model at national level .
" Dissemination of the technologies and capacity building of stakeholders .

4. Alternate Energy Sources Development and Improvement for Agriculture

Increasing energy cost is one of the biggest issues for agricultural operations . Due to shortage of
electricity and increasing cost of fossil fuels, the farmers are facing difficulties in operating irrigation
pumping system . The use of alternate energy sources like solar, wind and biogas for pumping
irrigation water are viable and attractive options to handle this situation. This will not only help conserve
energy supplies but also reduce pumping costs leading to reduced cost of crop production and
increased profitability .

4.1 Biogas Compression, Purification and Storing Technology

The gas produced in small home

based biogas plants is usually
used in kitchen via pipe line ; the
pressure developed in the
biogas holder is around 1-2 psi
and it is not sufficient to transport
gas to farther distances .
Similarly a large scale biogas
plant producing large amount of
biogas is often rendered
worthless due to the lack o-
knowledge and expertise. Once
purified, the biogas is similar to
natural gas (CH, Methane) and
can be used for running
generators and stationary
engines . A common gas
compressor poses fire hazards,
since the auto-ignition Figure-14 Wet scrubber for biogas compression, purification and storing
temperature of biogas is 537 °C.
Leakage and excessive temperature rise can be fatal . Due care during operation must be taken so as
not to allow the temperature to rise above safe limits . PARC scientists have successfully developed
techniques to compress and store biogas at medium pressure between 2 and 200 psi (Figure-13) .
Local industries were involved and empowered to develop biogas scrubbing system . By removing
CO, the biogas is upgraded to natural gas (Sui Gas) . After this up-gradation this can be used to run
gas fired engine/Generator . There are many ways to remove CO, from the biogas but the most cost
effective way is passing gas at high pressures to shower of water. The water based Biogas scrubber is
easy to operate and it does not require any chemical or complex machinery. The major achievement
was the development ofwater scrubber for biogas compression, purification and storage purpose .
 NATURAL RESOURCES

4 .2 Comparison of Water Pumping using Alternate Energy Sources and Conventional

Methods

An analysis was performed on two alternate energy systems i.e. solar and biogas system for water
pumping while the conventional diesel engine
system was taken as base case for comparison . A
comparison was also made for electric water 6 25

pumping system . Results showed that alternative 5

20 C
energy sources for water pumping i .e. solar powered
d
water pumping system and bio-gas driven dual fuel is $
E
engine are promising options as compared to the i
10 i
conventional energy sources i .e . diesel and
electricity. s 4;

Unit cost of electric pump is lower than diesel 0

Diesel operated Electric pumping Bio-gas dual fuel Solar powered

operated pumping system but higher than the solar pumping system system pumping system pumping system

and biogas pumping system . Both the alternative

Figure-15 Comparison of unit cost and payback
energy sources i.e. bio-gas and solar powered water period pumping systems
pumping system are economical in terms of unit cost
and payback periods . Despite the high initial cost of
solar system in comparison to diesel, electric and bio-gas operated pumps ; this system requires no
fuel to run the pump and little or no maintenance as recurrent costs (operation and maintenance)
which make it an attractive option for water pumping .

Salient Achievements

Both the alternative energy sources i .e . bio-gas and solar ,s -rm are
economical in terms of unit cost, benefit cost
ratio and payback periods.

" Despite the high initial cost of solar system

the little or no maintenance as recurrent costs
make it an attractive option for water
pumping .

Biogas production system at AZRI,

Bahawalpurhas been made fully functional.
The system is generating electricity for
running the tube well . Also evaluated and
improved efficiency of pumping systems run Figure-16 Dual fuel engine in operation
by alternate energy sources .

Production of biogas at D.I .Khan was above 7 m" / day in June-July, good enough to feed the
household supply for four hours as well as the water pumping engine `s requirement for 3.5
hours. Furthermore in dual fuel engine 78% decrease in diesel fuel was noted in case of engine
operation with Diesel + Bio gas .

Biogas operated submersible pump is used for pumping out water from 170 feet depth at
AZRI, Umerkot . Its discharge was recorded as 2.8 Ips . Maximum biogas production was
recorded in the month of June and minimum in December .
Future Thrust
" Enhancement of biogas production during low temperatures .
" Identification of feedstocks otherthan animal dung for biogas generation .
" Improving efficiency of pumping systems running on biogas .

4 .3 Cultivation of Biofuel Plants on Marginal Lands in Pakistan

An innovative research activity on cultivation of biofuel plants i .e. Jatropha, Castorbean, Jojoba and
Sukhchane was initiated in arid areas of the country. One of the major objectives was to make
productive use of vast marginal lands spread all over Pakistan . The activities were undertaken by
AZRIs at Bahawalpur, Umerkot and D .I .Khan and Southern Agricultural Research Centre (SARC),
Karachi . Research trials on various aspects of raising biofuel plants nurseries and plantations were
carried out. Experiments on extraction of oil from seeds of different species were also undertaken . The
major focus was to assess the performance of Jatrophacurcas under local conditions. Salient
achievements of concerned establishments were as follows:

4.3.1 AZRI, Bahawalpur

" Extracted oil of Jatropha, castorbean and Jojoba by using locally available oil expellers.
" Developed a package of technology for cultivation of most promising biofuel plants .
" Established large scale biofuel nursery. More than 22000 plants have been raised in the biofuel
nursery and transplanted in the field .
" Planted Jatropha saplings on 04 acres at AZRI farm . Bahawalpur (besides old Jatropha
cultivation on one acre) and 04 acres at Cholistan farm .
" Prepared a brochure for nursery raising and cultivation of Biofuel plants .

4 .3.2 AZRI, D. I. Khan

Several studies were conducted on identification of suitable bio-fuel plant species and appropriate
cultural practices to obtain maximum yield. Jatrophacurcas was found to be the most promising for
Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It can withstand water stress conditions and thrives well on marginal
lands . AZRI, D.I .Khan successfully demonstrated it from the seed procured from different countries
over an area of about five acres . All the plants are at fruit bearing stage. Based on the finding of the
research trials, it was noted that the most efficient method of propagation for Jatropha is through
cuttings rather than seed sowing (Figure-16)

Figure-17 Jatropha plantation in Bahawalpur

84 'AKISTAN AGF31CULT(JF3F RFSEARCII COUNCIL

 NATURAL RESOURCES

4.3.3 AZRI, Umerkot

Different nursery and field experiments of J. curcaswere conducted ; i) three sources (Indian, Thai and
Malaysian) were tested on various planting dates under nursery condition, ii) assessment of nursery
raising techniques (flatbed, polyethylene bags, iron tray and earthen pots) and iii) Effect of maturity
stages (green, half yellow and black full mature seed) . Besides that, field experiments were also
conducted for all three sources to evaluate different planting densities . irrigation intervals and fertilizer
(NPK) levels, for their response to growth and yield (Figure-17) .

Figure-18 Jatropha research trials at AZRI, Umerkot

Achievements :
" Raised 10,000 Jatropha seedlings in the nursery.

" Oil contents in Jatropha seeds from Thailand, Malaysia and India were found to be 33, 29 and
28%, respectively.

The results proved that March is the best time for nursery planting .

" Planting density method (2.15x 3 .00 m) proved the best.

" Best germination results (90 %) were achieved using Thai seed .

5. Climate Change Assessment Research

Impacts of climate change and climate variability on the water resources are likely to affect irrigated
agriculture, greater demand of water due to higher evapo-transpiration rates, installed power capacity,
environmental flows in the dry season and higher flows during the wet season, thereby causing severe
droughts and floods . Water resources are inextricably linked with climate ; hence, the projected
climate change has serious implications for Pakistan's water resources . The freshwater resources, in
Pakistan, are based on snow- and glacier-melt and monsoon rains, all being highly sensitive to climate
change .

The Climate Change & Geoinformatic Program of CAEWRI has taken up studies related to
assessment of climate change variability and possible impacts on the water resources using Remote
Sensing data, GIS techniques and modeling approaches . The climate change implications
addressed and analyzed in the present studies include impacts on snowcover, snowmelt, land use
and sedimentation as well as shift in rainfall pattern in Pothwar region .

5.1 Hydrological Response to Changing Landuse in Rawal Watershed

The response of various hydrological parameters to landuse changes occurred in Rawal watershed
during 1992-2010 period was studied to help devise effective watershed management strategies. The
Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used to simulate different hydrological
components in the watershed area using base landuse of 2010.

Major changes observed during the last two decades were; increase in the built-up land from about
2.8% to 8 .9% and decline in scrub forest coverage from 55.4% to 38.8% in the Rawal watershed . These
changes resulted in an increase of about 6 .0% in the water yield and 14 .3% in the surface runoff of the
watershed (Figure 18) . The lateral flows were decreased by 3 .7% likely due to the influence of
deforestation and growth in urban development . The sub-basins in the southern valley plains of the
watershed indicated increase in surface runoff and water yield while decrease in groundwater
contribution to streams . The combined effect of landuse change and hydrological variations had
exaggerated the problem of sediment yield which increased to about 17 .4% during 1992-2010 in the
watershed area.

Salient Findings :

" During 1992-2010 period, an increase in built-up land from about 2.8% to 8 .9% and a decrease
in scrub forest coverage from 55.4% to 38 .8% had been estimated in the Rawal watershed .

86 'AKISTAN AGRICULTURE RESEARCH COUNCIL

 NATURAL RESOURCES

These landuse changes

resulted in increase of about
6.0% in the water yield and
14.3% in the surface runoff of
the watershed .

The sediment yield increased

by about 17% due to these
landuse and hydrological
changes occurred during
1992-2010 period .
Figure-19 Hydrologic response of Rawal watershed to changing landuse
Future Thrust:

" Climate change impacts on agriculture and socioeconomics .

5 .2 Assessment of Soil Erosion Risk using RUSLE and Geo-informatics

Soil erosion is a major problem eroding fertile land, effecting agriculture and depleting water storages
rapidly in Pakistan . Identification and mapping of soil erosion 'hotspots' is an essential step for
devising effective watershed management plans. The risk of soil erosion was investigated in the
catchment of a proposed small dam - through integration of Revised Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and
Geographic Information System (GIS). Landuse was estimated using remote sensing image .
Approximately 25% of the watershed area was found under very low risk while 15% watershed area
falls under was estimated undervery high risk of soil erosion . Results are shown in Table 1 .

Salient Findings :

" Soil erosion was estimated at an average rate of about 22 tons/ha/yr in the Ghabbirwatershed
area.

" About 30% of the watershed area has been found under High risk of soil erosion (30 - 100
tons/ha/yr) .
" Intensity of soil erosion was found maximum in open soil class i .e. at an average rate of about
36.3 tons/ha/yr.

Future Thrust :

" Impact of Land degradation on Agriculture and Water Resources will be investigated .

Table-1 Extent of soil erosion risk and intensities in Ghabbir watershed

Erosion Rate
Risk zone Area (ha) % Area
(tons/ha/yr)
Ver',, Lay,,, _ 0-1 10280 24 .0
Low 1 -10 3787 9.2
Medium 10-30 8811: 21 .4
High 30-100 12199 29.6
Very High >100 6160 14 .9
Tota 41240 100
5.3 Spatio-temporal Analysis of Rainfall Pattern

The agriculture of rainfed region is dependent on

rainfall pattern which is changing with time .
Rainfall variation and shift in its pattern have been
investigated using historical rainfall data of fifty
years (1960-2009) of selected meteorological
stations covering Pothwar Region (Figure 19) .
The historical rainfall data was segregated into
two equal periods i .e . 1960-1984 and 1985-2009
for temporal change analysis on annual and
seasonal basis . The rainfall pattern indicated a
positive trend at Islamabad, Jhelum, Risalpur and
Mianwali . The percentage change in rainfall at
various stations between 1960-1984 and 1985-
2009 is shown in the Table-2 . The monsoon Figure : 20 Changes in mean annual and seasonal rainfall
rainfall (July, August, September) indicated an (mm) of Pothwar region between 1960-1984 and 1985-
increase of about 10% at Islamabad . 13% at 2009 periods
Mianwali and 16% at Risalpur between 1960-1984 and 1985-2009 . At Murree and Jhelum, the
monsoon rainfall exhibits a decrease of about 1 .7% and 1 .5% during this period . At Islamabad, the rate
of increase in mean annual rainfall is about 6 mm/y, Kharif rainfall is about 5 mm/y and Rabi rainfall is
0 .9 mm/y (Table 2) .The rainfall pattern has shown shift from northeast to west (Risalpur, Kakul, Attock)
and southwest ward (Chakwal) in the region . The results of the study provided bases for detailed
investigation of climate variability and its impact on water resources and agriculture in this region . This
is being investigated .

Salient Achievements:

Annual rainfall at Islamabad, Jhelum, Risalpur and Mianwali has shown rising trend

" Monsoon rainfall (July, August, September) indicates an increase of about 10% at Islamabad
and 13% at Mianwali while a decrease of about 1 .7% and 1 .5% at Murree and Jhelum between
1960-1984 and 1985-2009 periods .
Table-2 Percentage change in Annual and seasonal rainfall
Monsoon
Stations Annual Rabi Kharif
(Jul - Sep)
Islamabad 7 .0 6 .4 7 .2 10 .3
Murree 1 .2 10.1 -2 .5 -1 .7
Jhelum 2 .9 19 .9 -1 .7 -1 .5
Risalpur 17 .1 30.7 10 .4 16 .4
Mianwali 30 .0 57.6 21 .9 13 .4

" The rainfall pattern has shown shift from northeast to west (Risalpur. Kakul, Attock) and
southwest ward (Chakwal) in the region .

Future Thrust :

" Investigate the communities perception regarding this rainfall shift .

" Impact of rainfall shift on agriculture and socioeconomics.

 NATURAL RESOURCES

5.4 Modeling under Changing Climate in Astore River Basin

Water resources in Upper Indus Basin (UIB) are mainly contributed from snow and glacier melts .
Climate change/global warming have adverse impacts on snow hydrology across the globe . There is
dire need to study these impacts on UIB future water availability. The Snowmelt Runoff Model (SRM)
was applied for the snowmelt season from April to August on Astore River Basin for seven years (2000
to 2006) . The laps rate, critical temperature, degree-day factor, time lag, runoff coefficients and
recession coefficient were estimated from historical data. The model simulations indicated a good
agreement between the simulated and measured discharges (Figure -20) .

Three scenarios namely 'A' representing temperature increase by 4'-C ((T -4C" ), 'B' temperature
increase by 4°C and precipitation increase by 20% (T +4C°, P 20 %), 'C' precipitation increase by
20%(P 20 %) were investigated . These scenarios have been modeled for future forecasting of river
flows . It was concluded in scenario 'A' that the increasing temperature by +4 - C resulted in a 10%
increase in runoff. This increase in runoff continues until the year 2055 and then there is reduction in
flows . There is about twenty days earlier shift in snowmelt start, early peak and early recession in this
scenario.

In scenario B, the temperature increase of +4°C and the increase of precipitation by 20%, result in a
runoff increase of 15% with early snowmelt initiation . In scenario C, the precipitation increase by 20%
increased runoff by 20%.

The positive correlation was noticed between temperature and simulated river discharge . The study
would provide base for effective water resource management under changing climatic conditions in
the country.

Dne"+ejD1_narge S.m,'a; "_D~s:+rge

700
N

M 600

Soo
r
x
0 400

75
E

zoo

m 100

a
O

bUy lU n :al Aug

Date

Figure-21 Observed and simulated discharges of Astore River Basin

Salient achievements :

Under scenario 'A' increasing temperature by =4°C resulted in an increase of about 10% in
runoff . This increase in runoff continues until the year 2055 and then there is reduction in flows .
Snowmelt, peak runoff and recession started twenty days earlier under this scenario .
 " Under scenario B, increasing temperature by +4`C and the precipitation by 20%, result in a
runoff increase of 15%with early snowmelt initiation.

" In scenario C. the precipitation increase by 20% increased runoff by 20% .

Future Thrust:

" Model will be developed for future water resources forecasting on seasonal and monthly basis

6. Seed Production of Multi-Purpose Trees and Forage Species

Rangelands of Pakistan are degrading very rapidly due to un-planned grazing, removal of vegetation
for fuel wood and extreme climatic conditions . Improvement in forage production is still possible in
areas where natural vegetation has potential of recovery under protection and favorable climatic
conditions . However, large areas of rangelands need artificial planting to improve the rangeland
conditions . For re-vegetation of vast area, non-availability of quality seed is also a limiting factor.
Realizing this situation in the country, Rangeland Research Institute (RRI) started an ALP funded
project on Seed production of multi-purpose trees and forage species in six ecological zones of
Pakistan .

Salient Achievements:

" More than 7 tons of quality seeds of 50 different species were collected across the country .
Five hundred kg of seeds were sold to different organizations for rangeland improvement
programs and 200 kg was provided free of cost to various Universities and Research
Organization for research purposes .

" Different seed characters, viz., flowering and seed harvest time, seed viability, number of
seeds per kg- , seed ratio (L/W), seed grading, germination percentage and dormancy
breaking of 10 important range species were studied .

Acid scarification for 15 minutes showed the highest germination percentage of 81 % forAlbizia
lebbeck. Nicking and acid scarification for 30 minutes showed 100% germination for Cassia
fistula . In the case of Dalbergiasissoo soaking seeds in normal tap water gave 98%
germination .

7. Better Utilization and Value Addition for Improving the Palatability and
Nutritive Value of Relatively Low Palatable Forage Species

Rangelands are the major source of feed for about 167 .5 million heads of livestock in Pakistan . At
present rangelands are being grazed by all kinds of livestock and these rangelands have been heavily
overgrazed in the past, which has reduced the carrying capacity by 10 to 50 percent of their potential .

In dry areas of Pakistan, feed availability is very unevenly distributed throughout the year and October-
January and May-August are the acute feed deficit periods . Mixing of unpalatable grasses with the
existing available fodders after properly mixing may be one strategy to increase palatability and
improve animal nutrition . Clearly, such a strategy may work'up to a point' and definition of that point'
might be a useful topic for further research .
 NATURAL RESOURCES

Figure-22 Seed Production Plots of Perennial Grasses

Salient Achievements :

" In Pothwar region, following grasses have been identified as less palatable ; Desmostachya
bipinnata, Sorghum halepense, Sachharum munja, Chrysopogon aucheri, Cymbopogonj
awarancusa and Heteropogon contortus . Rangeland Research Institute, NARC has identified
techniqus of utilization of above less palatable grasses by adding value by valued forages
Lucerne (Medicago sativa) and Oats (Avena sativa) at different ratios and preservation like hay
making and silage of fodder cereals and legumes .

" Silage was prepared from maize and unpalatable grass of Dabb . (Desmostachya bipinnata),
Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense), Bari grass (Chrysopogon aucheri) and Sariala
(Heteropogon contortus) . This successful intervention will help to incorporate low palatable
grasses into the existing feed resources.

8. Rehabilitate Rangeland Interventions Using Range Management

Interventions
The rangelands of Pakistan are under severe threat of degradation and causing many ecological and
social problems . Large areas of rangelands have already crossed threshold of natural recovery of
vegetation . Such areas need artificial re-vegetation intervention . Re-vegetation of degraded
rangelands is generally a difficult endeavor because of limiting climatic, soil and topographic
conditions .

8.1 Rangeland Improvement by Re-vegetation and Development of Model Pasture

Activities have been initiated under RADP project with the objectives to develop pasture area on an
area of 25 acres on marginal land of NARC by monitoring the growth and production potential of
grasses, shrubs, tree species and rainfed fodder crops and evaluate the grazing management
practices.

Salient Achievements:

" Transplanted saplings of ten multipurpose tree species (Acacia modesta, Acacia nilotica,
Acacia albidia, Albizia lebbeck, Leucaena leucocephala, Morusalba, Zizyphus mauritana,
Robinia pseudoacacia, Gleditshia triacanthos and Elaegnusangus tifolia) in the field during
February to April, 2013 .
12 .3 Trout Fish Farming in Gilgit-Baltistan

Trout Fish Farming is an important newly created income generating avenue for the farmers of Gilgit-
Baltistan . However. prevalence of infectious diseases and non-availability of balanced & least cost
feeds pose a major threat to the productivity of trout fish in the region . The research focus of Trout
Research and Multiplication Station is to develop the balanced feed and conduct studies on disease
control through use of locally available ingredients and drugs/chemicals thereby enhance fish
production . During the period under report, most of the research activities aimed at finding the
bacterial pathogens and their proper control and proximate analysis of feed ingredients for provision
of balance feeds . This program is also serving as hub for provision of fish seeds for prospective
farmers of the region to enhance fish production through trout farming .

Figure-33 Trout fish hatchery at MARC, Jaglot

Salient Achievements :

Developed cost effective and balanced artificial feed for rearing of trout fish . It enhanced the
growth rate of the fish from 180 gm to 250 gm/year and also reduced the feed cost by 40% .

Identified bacterial pathogens of trout fish through laboratory test. Recommended antibiotics
are being used to control the same identified pathogens .

Future Thrust:

" Development of trout fish quality brooders through selective breeding as well as introduction
of new strains of trout fish through import of eyed-Ova .

" Establishment of Aquaculture Laboratory at Trout Research & Multiplication Station to

diagnose fish disease and proximate analysis of feed ingredients at local level .

Establishment of ponds/hatcheries at farmers' field in different locations of Gilgit-Baltistan on

cost sharing basis as well as capacity building of progressive farmers through
trainings/workshops to transfer the developed technology to trout farming communities of
Gilgit-Baltistan .