The Economic and Environmental Effects of Water Harvesting in Arbaat Region Red Sea State

This research aims at assessing water harvesting and its economic and environmental impacts in the Arbaat Red Sea State area. The hydrological aspects of water resources namely rainfall groundwater and springs in this region were studied within the basin area of (23.040) Km^2. In addition, all the projects aimed at increasing water yield and its impact on agricultural production, pastoral life and forests were identified and studied. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) were used to map the water harvesting area in Arbaat. The data obtained were processed using statistical analytical methods. The results show that there is a correlation between water harvesting, agricultural and livestock production. This was clear in Khor Arbaat Reparation Program (KARP) from (1992-2004). Reports by engineering consultant for groundwater recharge between (1987-2011) expected the increasing of water harvesting from 0.1 m^3/ day in 2002 to 5205 m^3/day in 2011; the total production of 18000 Km^3/ day increased to 23205 Km^3/ day in 2011. Water potential can help achieve a comprehensive and sustainable development in the region concerning agriculture and livestock if it is well supported and financed. The agricultural land is about 4,600 acres, but 1500-2000 acres are cultivated covering 30 % of the Port Sudan market’s needs.