Strategic Ways of Post-War Restoration of Irrigated Agriculture in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine

Abstract

The chapter outlines strategic approaches to the post- war restoration of irrigated agriculture in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, with a focus on the Kherson region, which has been severely impacted by military operations. The region has faced significant anthropogenic damage, including military degradation of soil cover, destruction of the Kakhovka Dam and Reservoir, looting of reclamation systems, and loss of fertile soil layers. The chapter proposes a comprehensive set of ecological and remedial measures, including agronomic, remedial, and technical interventions, to restore the irrigated agriculture system. One of the keys is the restoration of hydro- technical structures such as the Kakhovka Hydro Power Plant in a revised framework. This entails an evaluation of the infrastructure and the implementation of necessary upgrades or modifications to ensure reliable functioning in the postwar context. The chapter emphasizes the importance of integrating ecological considerations into restoration efforts, such as soil conservation practices and the protection of natural habitats.