The importance of agriculture, and the benefits of planting pistachio trees in the holy city of Najaf

Abstract

There is an important and prominent role for investment projects for the development of the agricultural sector, including projects related to afforestation, because of the importance of these projects and their desired goals in providing food for the population, reducing the effects of climate changes and drought, confronting the phenomenon of desertification, and improving the environment. Hence the importance of planting trees that are resistant to harsh climatic conditions and encouraging  Investing in this field and its importance to society, and the basic requirements that must be met to establish a pistachio farm project in the holy city of Najaf, its operating costs, the necessary labor and all other requirements have been determined.

The study showed the reality of agriculture in Iraq and the importance of afforestation and pistachio trees. The pistachio tree is considered one of the best perennial fruit trees that are resistant to harsh climatic conditions and the desert environment, due to its low need for water, its tolerance to high temperatures, its dense vegetation, and its ability to grow in the poorest soils.  With its high economic returns, high prices for its fruits, and achieving good profits in the medium and long term, in addition to its contribution to improving the environment, mitigating the climate, and stabilizing sand dunes, so the importance of the project, which is unique in the region, has emerged.  The research reached results that proved the success of the project and its high profitability, as well as its positive effects on the environment. The research recommends the importance of supporting and encouraging agricultural projects and afforestation projects.