Ukraine Funds Major Irrigation Expansion for Southern and Eastern Farms

At a Glance

• 6,200 ha of new irrigated cropland to be activated through 2025

• 16 water-user organizations already funded with equipment and materials

• 30,500 ha currently irrigated across southern and central oblasts

• UAH 1 billion in crop losses this year underscore the urgency of drought relief

What the Agro Program Delivers

“State support for irrigation strengthens food security and keeps farmers viable in Ukraine’s driest regions,”
— Verkhovna Rada statement

Current & Future Coverage

• Today: 30,500 ha irrigated — supporting grains, corn, soybeans, sunflowers, vegetables, berries, rice, orchards, and vineyards.

• Goal: Expand to 36,700 ha once subgrant projects finish.

Key Crops on Irrigated Land

• Wheat, corn, peas, soybeans

• Sunflowers, vegetables, strawberries, melons

• Rice and—new since 2024—cotton

• Fruit orchards and vineyards

Why This Matters

1. Drought Resilience: Over 55,000 ha of crops already lost in Kherson this season; modern irrigation mitigates future shocks.

2. Energy & Water Efficiency: New pumps, drip systems, and pipelines cut both electricity and water consumption.

3. Economic Stability: Expanded irrigation supports yields, farm income, and national food-supply targets.

Long-Term Vision

• Irrigation Plan of Ukraine 2050 outlines phased upgrades to networks and on-farm systems.

• 61 registered water-user organizations now coordinate communal infrastructure, with more expected as projects scale.

Next Steps for Producers

1. Form or join a local water-user organization to access subgrants.

2. Apply for equipment funding under the Agro program’s next call.

3. Adopt drip and subsurface systems to maximize water savings and crop output.