RIYADH: The National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, known as Estidamah, has carried out a research program to assess seasonal forage crops in collaboration with agricultural companies in Jouf, Tabuk, Hail, Haradh, and Wadi Al-Dawasir regions.
This initiative aimed to provide sustainable forage alternatives following the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture's decision to end the cultivation of perennial crops by Nov. 16, 2026, to protect non-renewable groundwater, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
According to Estidamah, seasonal crops require significantly less water than perennials, which can consume about 32,000 cubic meters per hectare.
The center said seasonal forages can supply local feed during winter, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals for food security and sustainability.
Over three years, the program evaluated 12 plant species and identified seven promising varieties based on productivity and nutritional value.
The findings showed that seasonal winter forage systems achieve yields of 8-15 tonnes per hectare, save about 50 percent more water, and improve soil fertility.
Estidamah has invited farmers and stakeholders to engage through its platforms to support the national transition in the forage sector.
