The Impact of Climate and Water Management on Agricultural Production in the Ganja-Dashkasan Economic Region

The Ganja-Dashkesan economic region has a predominantly semi-desert and steppe climate. The area consists of mountains and plains on the northeastern slopes of the Lesser Caucasus. These natural and geographical conditions create conditions for the development of various agricultural sectors. Global climate change and the region's water availability have a significant impact on agricultural production. Climatic factors are among the main determinants of crop diversity and productivity in the region. A sharp decline in precipitation has led to increased drought, the use of water resources dependent on transboundary rivers, and a significant reduction in phytomass. There is a close correlation between average annual precipitation dynamics and the index of physical volume of agricultural production. Irrigation systems and canals do not meet modern standards and are poorly managed, which is one of the main problems hindering agricultural development in the region.