ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the challenges and opportunities for saline agriculture in coastal Bangladesh. The present study has examined the spatial patterns of soil salinization, identified the drivers of salinity intrusion, determined the impacts on agricultural systems, and identified opportunities for saline agriculture in coastal districts. Cropland of southwest and central coastal areas is more vulnerable to saline stress, and about 82% of cropland is in the areas of severe salinity stress. Salinity has significant negative impacts on agricultural systems, fisheries resources, livestock products, and production in coastal study districts. Our study found that several opportunities exist to aid communities and ecosystems. These include locally led coping strategies – elevating agricultural land, irrigation by tube well, use more organic fertilizers, and growth of salt-tolerant high-yield variety (HYV) rice, vegetables (e.g., cucurbits, pumpkins, etc.), and oilseed crops (e.g., sunflower, mustard, etc.). Our study suggests the need for the rapid deployment of an integrated socio-agriculture saline management approach through action research, innovation, and institutionalization.
