Restoring Al Majeddyeh Rangelands

Established by ICARDA and Wadi, Al Majeddyeh watershed restoration site is located in Jordan’s Middle Badia region, approximately 30 km southeast of Amman. Now in its eighth year, the project focuses on restoring degraded steppe ecosystems in an arid, warm climate with an average annual rainfall of about 130 mm. The program employs mechanized micro water harvesting using the Vallerani system to break compacted soils and enhance deep rainwater infiltration. Pits are dug along contours (approximately 4.5 meters long and spaced 5 to 10 meters apart), with each pit planted with two native shrub seedlings. This intervention is part of a broader watershed rehabilitation strategy that also includes upland restoration, gully erosion control, and downstream rainfed barley cultivation using traditional ‘Marab’ techniques. The site shows strong ecological outcomes, with over 80% seedling survival and visible natural regeneration. Mechanized pits not only retain water but also encourage seed germination and soil moisture availability, fostering the recovery of resilient vegetation patches. The intervention enhances biodiversity, reduces erosion, improves carbon storage, and supports local agropastoral with improved fodder resources. Local communities lead monitoring and data collection, contributing to evidence-based assessments.