Application of SWOT Method in Analysis of Strengths and Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of Optimal Water Consumption plan in Agriculture Case Study: Markazi Province

Iran is located in arid and semi-arid areas of the world and the major factor in this region is water shortage. The shortage of water in the country has limited food production and agriculture activities. More than 94 percent of the water resource of this country is used in agriculture sector, but the overall efficiency of irrigation in the country is between 33 and 37 percent. Therefore, despite the water crisis in the country and regarding the low turnover in irrigation, efficient use and management of water in agriculture sector is unavoidable. One program that has been implemented by Jihad of agriculture ministry in villages and cities to increase the efficiency of irrigation in agriculture sector is optimal water consumption plan In this plan, water demand for producing each yield unit is taught to beneficiaries to avoid excessive water in irrigation. This study aimed to suggest strategies for the development of this plan in the country. These strategies presented by SWOT method and prioritized by QSPM matrix. Nuga and Asimiea in 2015 used this technic to analyze agriculture sector in Niger. Based on results, the usage of international budget for developing of environmental educations in villages introduced as the most significant strategy, having the highest score.