Sustainable sediment management in Jordanian dams: Feasibility, economic viability, and agricultural reuse potential

Jordan has long faced severe water scarcity, which has significant implications for agriculture, industry, and domestic consumption. This crisis is further exacerbated by climate change, population growth, regional conflicts, and unsustainable water use. In response, Jordan has focused heavily on dam construction to secure water supplies, despite the high financial and environmental costs. However, rapid sedimentation threatens dam storage capacity and operational efficiency, reducing their lifespan and long-term sustainability. This study evaluates the feasibility of sediment removal as an alternative to constructing new dams, considering environmental, technical, agricultural, and economic factors. The research is based on case studies from King Talal and Mujib dams, integrating water and sediment quality assessments, cost analyses, and comparisons with regional studies from similar climatic and hydrological conditions. The findings suggest that while sediment removal presents logistical and economic challenges, it can restore lost reservoir capacity and provide valuable agricultural benefits. The potential reuse of dredged sediments for soil enhancement offers an opportunity for sustainable farming, reducing reliance on costly fertilisers. Given the increasing costs and environmental concerns associated with new dam construction, sediment management emerges as a viable, cost-effective strategy for optimising Jordan’s existing water infrastructure, enhancing water security, and promoting sustainable resource management.