Estimation of the virtual water footprint and water shortage of Ardabil Plain main crops

This research was conducted in Ardabil plain with the aim of investigating the quantitative and sustainable status of different sources of water supply for potato, wheat, barley and alfalfa crops. Using CROPWAT software, the water requirement of these products as the main crops of the plain was determined. Various components of the virtual water footprint, including VWFblue, VWFgreen, VWFgrey, as well as water stress indices from the perspective of production (WSI) and water consumption (CWSI) were calculated. The results showed that potatoes with an annual consumption of approximately 84 million m3 (66%) have the largest share in the virtual water footprint index (VWF) of Ardabil Plain. In addition, barley, alfalfa and wheat products have a virtual water footprint (VWF) of 21, 12.2, and 11 million m2 respectively. The WSIgreen, WSIblue, and WSIgrey indices were calculated with values of 0.5, 6.4, and -0.1, respectively, and moderate water and severe water shortages, respectively. Considering the limitations of water resources in the Ardabil Plain, it is necessary to improve the productivity of regional agricultural water from a production point of view and to prioritize the development and protection of water resources to ensure the quantity and quality of the water needed.