The project to convert farmland to grassplot for 9.00×103hm2 of the upriver irrigation area of the Tarim Valley is a segment of synthesis management of the Tarim Valley.The project involved 1.42×103hm2 reservoir irrigated area

3.60×103hm2 river irrigated area and 4.00×102hm2 water pump irrigated area. After coverting farmland to grassplot

the gross irrigation water need is less and the water previously used for cropland irrigation becomes available for environmental application. While selfsow nvegetation replaces some cropland

at the same time

the remaining farmland can be utilized for greater benefit. The gross saving of irrigatiion water can approach 3.10×107m3

which can flow to the lower reaches of the Tarim River. Converting farmland to grassplot can have marked benefits for surrounding areas

and is propitious to the improvement of the environment in Tarim Valley.