Importance of zero-tillage with high stubble to trap snow and increase wheat yields in Northern Kazakhstan

Abstract

This technical paper was prepared by a senior FAO agronomist in the Investment Centre Division and draws on the results of two missions carried out in June 2008 and April 2009 by teams of Centre, World Bank and national staff to assist implementation of the World Bank-financed Agricultural Competitiveness Project. The study reviews the potential for zero-tillage (no-till or direct seeding) to increase wheat yields in Northern Kazakhstan by 20 to 50 percent above current levels. The possible aver age production increase from this achievement could be about 1 million additional tonnes of wheat annually. Eventual wide adoption of zero-tillage technology could also bring about a global benefit by contributing to improved carbon storage, which would also have a positive effect on climate change due to decreased greenhouse gas emissions. The paper notes that continued support and increased emphasis on conservation agriculture could significantly contribute to improving food security and the o verall cereal and grain production system competitiveness in Kazakhstan. However zero-tillage does not mean no-farming input. In fact it requires investment to adapt or buy new machinery and use of herbicides, during the first years of technology establishment. Yet the payoff can be well worth it with a potential rate of return on the investment as high as 18-23 percent. The zero-tillage results described in this paper could apply to similar climates and farming systems in other countries.