The experiment was conducted under plastic tunnel at Groundnut Research Station, Attock, Pakistan during 2006-2007 to 2008-2009 to determine water consumption by three off-season vegetables irrigated through drip and furrow systems, and to evaluate the comparative water use efficiency (WUE) of two irrigation systems in rain fed areas. Drip and furrow irrigation systems were tested on tomato, cucumber and bell pepper in this study. A permanent tunnel of 24 x 8 x 3 m was erected. Each crop was planted on 6 x 8 m under drip irrigation and on 6 x 2.70 m under furrow irrigation system. Water use efficiency was calculated as the ratio of total yield (kg) to total water consumed by the crop (m3). Each crop consumed less water under drip irrigation as compared to furrow irrigation system. Amomg crops, cucumber comsumed the least amount of water irrespective of irrigation systems. Average water use efficiency increased by 250% for tomato, 274% for cucumber and 245% for bell pepper under drip irrigation system as compared to furrow system. On the contrary, the average fruit yield increased only by 2.05% for tomato, 3.32% for cucumber and 2.35% for bell pepper in furrow irrigation over  drip irrigation. This suggested that drip irrigation has a greater scope for production of off-season vegetables especially in water scarce areas of Pakistan. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sja.v12i1.21113 SAARC J. Agri., 12(1): 62-71 (2014)

The research work was carried out in Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State. Thirty water samples from boreholes were randomly collected within the major towns in November to April (Dry), and May to October (Rainy season). The samples were analyzed for physical, chemical, and bacteriological parameters and to observe any changes in the groundwater quality of the area. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson Correlation were performed on the data obtained using SPSS 10.0 for a window for significant variations and inter-element relationship. High mean turbidity was recorded in boreholes in Danfili (12.2 NTU), Kwarau (6.2 NTU). Mean turbidity of 4.3 NTU was recorded in Dry season for wells with Rigachikun having 5.1 NTU. It was observed that a negative correlation exists between well depth and heavy metal concentration. There was also a linear relationship of 0.686 between well distance and nitrate (faecal contaminant). Mean value for Fluoride (0.22 mg/l), Sodium (20.78 mg/l), Calcium (15.7 mg/l), Iron (0.013 mg/l), Nitrate (3.69 mg/l), Cadmium (0.00102 mg/l) Chloride (22.107 mg/l) recorded for sampled wells were all within WHO standard. A high value of 24 mg/l and 25 mg/l for Nitrate was recorded in Saminaka Road and Danfili. An indication of contamination during the rainy season indicates surface-groundwater intrusion (influx). The results of the bacteriological analysis indicated that most wells sampled have a range of 1 cfu/100 ml to 7 cfu/100 ml with Danfili Mani having the highest value (7 cfu/100 ml) which make it unsaved (not Potable).

The setting up of concrete ponds fish farm in a full plot of land with N10,000,000 capital needed as cash on interest free loan basis payable in five (5) years period with the sole aim of making profit was projected. The management was based on polyculture of catfishes (Clarian gariepinus). Data for the study was collected through face to face interview and the use of checklist from the 22nd of May to 27th of July, 2019. Based on financial analysis an interest free loan of N10,000000 was required, payable within a period of 5years, a good return on investment was realized. In addition, the state government was encouraged to empower the populace to engage in aquaculture fish production system. Government fish farms that are no longer operational were recommended for privatization and or commercialization on revival for the provision of more employment, income generation and poverty reduction, especially among the internally displaced person (IDP) in Nigeria.

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