Objective:
The objective of this cooperative research project is to build on and enhance the outcomes of the Irrigation Management Information System (IMIS) project in Israel and the United States. The cooperating scientists will carry out research and other local and regional activities. Researchers will study improved water management techniques to include determination of crop water requirements, irrigation scheduling, and micro-irrigation system operation, and continue to expand and implement the IMIS project in Israel and the U.S.

Approach:
Under this agreement, and in accordance with the budget agreed to by both Parties to this Agreement, the cooperator shall: 1. Establish IMIS research and demonstration sites that represent a significant local agricultural sector and practices in Jordan. The system will be based on local meteorological data and field measured information inputs. 2. Develop the physical infrastructure and information management tools for rapid dissemination of quality controlled and reliable irrigation scheduling data for the proposed project sites. 3. Cooperating scientists will gather data throughout the cropping season utilizing data from constructed weighing-lysimeter and weather station, and collaboratively apply quality control and processing to develop Crop coefficients (kc) values. 4. Establish scheduling criteria for the unique variety of field, orchard, and vegetable crops grown in the project area, using Evapotranspiration (ET) estimation models and incorporating agronomic considerations. 5.Establish interaction with farmers, farm advisors, and extension personnel via implementation of the system to ensure wide acceptance and sustainability. 6. Promote regional cooperative activities by developing and disseminating the pilot project as a model pending future funding availability in preparation for a project expansion that includes infrastructure.