Digital soil maps in Permet village
Digital Villages initiative (DVI)
DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
In 2020, FAO conducted an evaluation of land use, water resources, and agroecological conditions in the area surrounding Përmet, aiming to improve accessibility to soil data and to develop the first digital soil maps in Albania. The map preparation operations utilized a combination of GIS technologies, field assessments and sampling, and the digital soil maps were subsequently developed based on the collected information highlighting the specific agro-ecological situations, types of agriculture land, changes in land use, risk of flood, risk of erosion, agricultural land occupied by constructions, land use (agriculture and other uses), total available water, natural drainage, irrigation and drainage channels (network), watersheds, zoning of selected agriculture production (vineyards and fruit trees) and heavy metal deposits in the soil.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The creation of the digital soil maps involved a three-stage process. GIS technologies were used to analyse and integrate geographic data, providing spatial details of the soil characteristics. On-site field assessments and sampling were conducted to gather ground data, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the digital maps. Finally, the combined insights garnered from the GIS analysis and the field data facilitated the development of comprehensive digital soil maps for the specified area. The digital preparation of soil maps for Përmet ensured the accuracy of the data, while advanced map design tools were used to create informative visuals and data visualization to develop high-quality maps to be used in agriculture and land management.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The newly created digital soil maps are designed to benefit both the government and local farmers in the region. Government structures can use the maps to support informed decision-making related to sustainable agricultural planning and management, while for farmers, the maps serve as a practical tool for the planning of their agricultural activities, helping them make more informed decisions about crops and resource utilization, and thus improving overall productivity.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
Users have free access to the digital soil maps, as the business model is based on donor funding. The model relies on external financial support to ensure the widespread availability and usage of the digital soil maps for the benefit of the agricultural community.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The creation of digital soil maps for Përmet can strongly support the rural development of the area. The maps offer accurate and accessible insights into soil characteristics, helping farmers make informed decisions, while optimizing their crop planning and resource management. At an administration level, this crucial information supports government structures in implementing sustainable agricultural practices, fostering overall growth and resilience in the local agricultural sector.
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better environment
