This First Assessment and Feasibility Report is prepared for the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery under the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, located within the administrative boundaries of Namangan Region, in accordance with the Technical Disposition for the Design, Upgrading, and Preparation of Forest Nurseries in Uzbekistan under the RESILAND CA+ Nursery Framework (RNF).

The report has been developed as an integral component of the consultancy services under Contract No. LRP/IC/08, titled:
“International Consultant to Provide Technical Expertise for the Design, Upgrading, and Preparation of Nine (9) Forestry Nurseries.”

Within this framework, Mr. İsmail Belen, International Consultant, conducted a field mission to the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery located in Namangan Region on Sunday, 8 February 2026.

The mission included site inspection, observation of existing nursery areas, evaluation of environmental and infrastructural conditions, and consultations with representatives of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise and regional forestry officials.

This First Assessment and Feasibility Report has been finalized in full compliance with contractual obligations and in coordination with:

• The Agency for Forest and Green Area Expansion and Combating Desertification under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan;
• O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise.

The completion of this document formally concludes Phase 4 – Assessment and Feasibility for the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery within the RESILAND CA+ framework.

Subject to approval by the RESILAND CA+ Project Implementation Unit (PIU), the project will proceed to the subsequent implementation stages:

• Phase 5 – Nursery Design: Preparation of Detailed Nursery Engineering Designs
• Phase 6 – Technical Specifications & BoQ: Development of Technical Specifications and Bills of Quantities
• Phase 7 – Validation & Training: Second Field Mission for Technical Validation and Capacity Building

The present report establishes the technical, environmental, and institutional basis required for the structured upgrading and climate-resilient development of the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery within the agricultural and irrigated landscape of the Fergana Valley in Namangan Region.

1. Introduction, Context and Policy Framework

1.1 Strategic Positioning of the Orta Orol Nursery within RESILAND CA+

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery under the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, located within the administrative boundaries of Namangan Region, is one of the nine (9) priority state forestry nurseries selected under the Uzbekistan Resilient Landscapes Restoration Project (RESILAND CA+).

The inclusion of the O‘rtaorol nursery among the nine target nurseries reflects its strategic importance in addressing a key structural gap in Uzbekistan’s eastern landscape restoration systems, particularly within the intensively cultivated and densely populated environment of the Fergana Valley. In this region, there is increasing demand for high-quality planting material suitable for shelterbelt systems, agroforestry development, and urban greening programs.

Unlike nurseries located in arid southern lowland regions or erosion-prone mountainous areas, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery operates within the irrigated agricultural plains of the Fergana Valley, characterized by:

• Flat alluvial valley terrain
• Extensive irrigation canal networks supporting agricultural production
• Intensive agricultural land use
• Moderate continental climate conditions
• High population density and land-use pressure

Under RESILAND CA+, nurseries are not treated as auxiliary facilities supporting seasonal planting campaigns. Instead, they are conceived as core public production infrastructure forming the biological and operational backbone of large-scale landscape restoration and climate adaptation strategies.

Within this framework, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery contributes directly to the Project Development Objective (PDO) of bringing 280,000 hectares under sustainable landscape management by supplying climate-adapted planting material suited to the agro-ecological conditions of the Fergana Valley and eastern Uzbekistan.

The nursery’s strategic role aligns with two core project components:

• Sub-component 1.1 – Strengthen Institutions and Policies
Supporting institutional capacity building, standardization of nursery operations, improvement of seed and planting material quality control systems, and alignment with national forestry regulatory reforms.

• Sub-component 2.1 – Enhance Tree-based Landscape Restoration and Management
Ensuring the production and supply of site-matched, climate-resilient planting material required for:

• Shelterbelt establishment in irrigated agricultural landscapes
• Agroforestry systems in valley farming zones
• Rehabilitation of degraded or intensively used agricultural lands
• Protective green infrastructure in urban and peri-urban environments
• Regional greening initiatives across Namangan Region
• Ecosystem service-oriented restoration interventions within the Fergana Valley

Within the RESILAND CA+ results chain, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery functions as:

• A regional production hub for climate-adapted planting material supporting restoration and greening programs in eastern Uzbekistan;
• A risk-reduction mechanism improving plantation success through better species–site matching and quality-controlled seedling production;
• A scalable production and demonstration platform supporting regionally differentiated restoration strategies across Namangan Region and the broader Fergana Valley landscape.

In this sense, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery is positioned not merely as a production site, but as a strategic valley-based model nursery capable of supporting landscape restoration, agricultural protection systems, and climate-resilient greening initiatives in one of Uzbekistan’s most intensively utilized regions.

1.2 Alignment with the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy and National Environmental Priorities

The Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy (Presidential Decree No. UP-158, 11 September 2023) establishes binding national targets under Articles 67–71 concerning afforestation, expansion of green areas, climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, desertification control, and restoration of degraded lands, including territories influenced by the Aral Sea crisis.

Key quantified national commitments include:

• Planting 200 million seedlings annually;
• Increasing national green area coverage to 30 percent;
• Expanding total forest area to 6.1 million hectares;
• Establishing 600,000 hectares of climate-protective green zones;
• Restoring 2.6 million hectares in the Aral Sea region;
• Increasing annual tree and shrub seed harvesting by 840 tonnes.

Achieving these targets requires a permanent, technically robust, and ecologically differentiated nursery system capable of producing large volumes of climate-adapted planting material suited to Uzbekistan’s diverse ecological zones, including irrigated agricultural valleys, foothill environments, and semi-arid lowland plains.

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery under the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, located in Namangan Region, contributes directly to the implementation of these national priorities within the Fergana Valley, one of the most densely populated and intensively cultivated regions of Uzbekistan.

The nursery supports the implementation of several strategic articles of the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy:

• Article 67 – Expansion of the “Yashil Makon” National Project, particularly through urban and peri-urban greening initiatives in Namangan Region;
• Article 68 – Forest area expansion and establishment of protective forest belts, especially shelterbelt systems in irrigated agricultural landscapes of the Fergana Valley;
• Article 70 – Climate change adaptation and sustainable land management, focusing on improving ecological resilience within intensively used agricultural landscapes;
• Article 71 – Biodiversity conservation and cultivation of economically and ecologically valuable species, including species suitable for agroforestry, shelterbelts, and landscape restoration.

Unlike nurseries located in arid southern lowland regions or mountainous erosion-prone districts, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery operates within the irrigated agricultural plains of the Fergana Valley, characterized by:

• flat alluvial terrain
• extensive irrigation canal networks
• intensive agricultural land use
• moderate continental climate conditions
• high population density and land-use pressure

Its strategic function is therefore oriented toward producing planting material suitable for:

• shelterbelt establishment in irrigated agricultural landscapes
• agroforestry systems within valley farming zones
• urban and peri-urban greening programs
• rehabilitation of degraded agricultural lands
• landscape stabilization and ecological improvement within the Fergana Valley

Through structured upgrading and climate-resilient production systems, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery translates national afforestation targets into biologically viable, quality-controlled, and site-matched seedling production aligned with the ecological realities of the Fergana Valley agricultural landscape.

In this manner, the nursery serves as an operational instrument for implementing the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy within eastern Uzbekistan’s irrigated valley ecosystem, supporting both landscape restoration and sustainable agricultural protection systems.

1.3 Regional Context: Namangan Region and O‘rtaorol State Forestry Area, Fergana Valley

Uzbekistan possesses significant forest and semi-forest landscapes distributed across deserts, mountains, and irrigated agricultural regions. The national forestry sector is organized through a network of State Forestry Enterprises responsible for the management, protection, and development of forest resources across the country.

According to the study “Regarding the Inventory Verification of Forest Enterprise Land Areas in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the Regions (Provinces)”, prepared by the Cadastre Agency – Republican Aerogeodetic Center, Uzbekistan’s forestry system includes 79 State Forestry Enterprises (SFE) operating across 13 regions of the country.

These enterprises collectively manage approximately 7.053 million hectares of land. The study was conducted within the framework of Presidential Decree No. 90 of May 30, 2025, and forms part of a national program aimed at verifying forestry land areas and creating a digital forest map of Uzbekistan.

As part of this program, the inventory verification and creation of electronic forest maps have already been completed for 71 forestry enterprises covering more than 6.2 million hectares, representing about 88% of the total forestry land area.

The results of the inventory show that approximately 4.44 million hectares are classified as forested lands, including natural forests, poplar plantations, young plantations, shelterbelts, and shrublands. These forest ecosystems play an important role in preventing land degradation, combating desertification, protecting agricultural landscapes, and supporting biodiversity conservation.

Within this national forestry system, the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise, located in Namangan Region in the Fergana Valley, represents one of the regional forestry management units responsible for local afforestation and land protection activities.

According to the national forestry land inventory, the enterprise manages a total land area of approximately 666.6 hectares.

The land within the enterprise includes several categories such as:

forest plantations and shelterbelts
cultivated land and agricultural plots
nursery areas for seedling production
roads and operational infrastructure
protective tree belts and other forest vegetation areas

These land types support forestry management, plantation development, and environmental protection activities in the region.

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery operates as part of the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise and plays an important role in supporting regional forestry programs.

The nursery contributes to:

production of seedlings for afforestation programs
establishment of shelterbelts and protective plantations
rehabilitation of degraded lands
development of green infrastructure in agricultural landscapes

Seedlings produced at the nursery are used in regional greening initiatives and forestry development projects implemented across Namangan Region and the wider Fergana Valley.

The present assessment is linked to the broader national forest land inventory verification and digital mapping initiative described in the report “Regarding the Inventory Verification of Forest Enterprise Land Areas in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the Regions (Provinces)”.

The project aims to:

verify forestry enterprise land boundaries
update land registers and land-use categories
create a national digital forest map (e-map)
identify land-use violations and inconsistencies
improve transparency and efficiency in forest land management

Through the use of modern surveying methods, aerial mapping, and geospatial technologies, the project provides updated and reliable spatial data that supports sustainable forestry management throughout Uzbekistan.

1.3.1 Geographic Location and Elevation Profile

The forestry nursery site located at 40°55′50.3″ N – 71°49′01.4″ E lies in the eastern part of the Fergana Valley, close to the boundary between Namangan Region and Andijan Region in Uzbekistan.

River System

The nursery area is located approximately 1–2 km south of the Kara Darya River, one of the major rivers flowing through the eastern Fergana Valley.

The Kara Darya originates in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and flows through the Fergana Valley before joining the Naryn River, where together they form the Syr Darya, one of the largest rivers in Central Asia.

Because of this hydrological system, the nursery area is located within the Syr Darya river basin, which supports extensive irrigation agriculture across the Fergana Valley.

Floodplain and Alluvial Landscape

Satellite imagery shows that the nursery lies within the alluvial floodplain of the Kara Darya River, characterized by:

braided river channels
sediment bars and river islands
fertile alluvial soils
irrigation canals branching from the river system

These floodplain soils are typically highly fertile and suitable for agriculture and tree cultivation, which explains the dense agricultural development surrounding the site.

Agricultural and Irrigation Environment

The surrounding area is dominated by intensively irrigated farmland, forming the typical patchwork landscape of the Fergana Valley. Numerous irrigation channels distribute water from the Kara Darya and regional canal systems to agricultural fields and rural settlements.

This irrigation infrastructure provides favorable conditions for forestry nursery operations, particularly for:

seedling irrigation
soil moisture management
seasonal water supply during the growing period

Nearby Settlements and Infrastructure

The nursery location is situated near several rural settlements and local infrastructure nodes visible in satellite imagery, including:

Jiydakapa / Jiydakapa area to the north
Chudzha settlement to the east
rural residential areas located along the R-122 regional road

These settlements indicate that the nursery is embedded within an active rural agricultural landscape with relatively good accessibility.

Regional Geographic Context

Geographically, the nursery is located within the central Fergana Valley alluvial basin, characterized by:

flat terrain with minimal elevation variation
fertile alluvial soils
extensive irrigation networks
dense rural settlement patterns
proximity to the Kara Darya river corridor

This setting provides favorable natural conditions for forestry nursery development and supports the production of seedlings used for regional afforestation and protective plantation programs.

1.3.2 Climate and Temperature Regime

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery, operated by the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region, is located within the continental climatic zone of the Fergana Valley. The nursery site lies at an elevation of approximately 470–480 meters above sea level, which provides relatively moderate climatic conditions compared with the arid lowland regions of southern Uzbekistan.

Namangan Region experiences a continental valley climate, characterized by warm summers, moderately cold winters, and a seasonal precipitation regime concentrated mainly in winter and early spring. These climatic conditions are typical for the irrigated agricultural landscapes of the Fergana Valley.

Regional climatic averages indicate the following approximate parameters:

• Mean annual temperature: 13–15°C
• Average July temperature: 28–32°C
• Peak summer temperatures: occasionally reaching 36–38°C
• Average January temperature: –1°C to +3°C
• Absolute winter minima: occasionally below –15°C

Annual precipitation in Namangan Region averages approximately 220–300 mm, which is higher than in the arid southern regions of Uzbekistan but still insufficient to support intensive vegetation growth without irrigation.

Precipitation is strongly seasonal and concentrated mainly during:

• Late autumn
• Winter
• Early spring

The summer period is typically warm and dry, characterized by:

• high solar radiation
• moderate to high evapotranspiration rates
• very limited summer precipitation
• vegetation growth largely supported by irrigation

Because the nursery is located within the alluvial agricultural plains of the Fergana Valley near the Kara Darya river system, irrigation infrastructure in the region provides important water resources that support agricultural production and forestry nursery operations.

However, despite relatively favorable valley climatic conditions, irrigation remains essential for nursery management, particularly during the summer growing season.

Field observations, photographic documentation, and satellite imagery analysis indicate that the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery, operated by the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region, is located within the alluvial floodplain landscape of the central Fergana Valley.

The nursery site lies within a low-gradient depositional plain associated with the Kara Darya river system, which forms part of the broader Syr Darya basin. The soils in this area have developed primarily from alluvial sediments deposited by historical river flows, resulting in heterogeneous soil layers composed of sand, silt, and gravel fractions.

Surface soil observations show that the nursery area contains coarse-textured alluvial soils with a noticeable presence of rounded gravel and small stones, which are typical indicators of fluvial deposition environments. These soils generally exhibit high permeability and rapid water infiltration capacity, allowing irrigation water to penetrate quickly into deeper soil layers.

However, the presence of coarse fragments also results in moderate to low water-holding capacity, meaning that soil moisture can decline relatively quickly during warm and dry periods. Under nursery production conditions, this characteristic requires carefully controlled irrigation scheduling to maintain stable soil moisture levels necessary for seedling development.

The dominant soil texture in the nursery area can be broadly classified as gravelly sandy-loam to sandy-loam alluvial soils, which are generally suitable for forestry nursery production because they provide:

• good soil aeration for root development
• low risk of waterlogging
• relatively easy soil preparation and cultivation

At the same time, the relatively coarse soil structure may benefit from soil improvement measures, such as the incorporation of organic matter, compost, or mulching materials to enhance moisture retention and improve soil structure within nursery beds.

Minor micro-topographic variations and shallow drainage lines observed across the parcel indicate localized redistribution of surface sediments during historical flood events. These micro-relief features are typical in alluvial environments and should be considered during land leveling and nursery bed layout planning to ensure uniform irrigation distribution.

The presence of existing shelterbelt tree lines around the nursery area also contributes indirectly to soil stability by reducing wind erosion and limiting soil moisture loss through evapotranspiration.

Overall, the soils of the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery site exhibit typical alluvial characteristics of the Fergana Valley floodplain environment. With appropriate soil management practices, including organic matter enhancement and efficient irrigation control, these soils provide suitable physical conditions for forestry seedling production and nursery development under the RESILAND CA+ framework.

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery, operated by the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region, is located within the central part of the Fergana Valley, a large intermountain basin characterized by extensive alluvial plains formed through long-term river sediment deposition.

The geomorphological structure of the area reflects the floodplain environment associated with the Kara Darya river system, which forms part of the broader Syr Darya basin. Over geological time, fluvial processes have created a wide depositional surface composed of layered alluvial sediments transported from the surrounding mountain ranges.

Within this regional landscape, the nursery site is situated on a low-relief agricultural plain typical of the Fergana Valley floor. The terrain exhibits very gentle gradients and minimal natural elevation differences, reflecting the long-term accumulation of river-borne sediments across the valley basin.

Remote sensing observations indicate that the nursery parcel forms part of a large continuous floodplain surface, where geomorphological variation is limited primarily to small-scale micro-relief features created through historical sediment deposition and agricultural land leveling.

The general terrain characteristics of the surrounding landscape can be summarized as follows:

• broad alluvial valley floor
• extremely low natural slope gradients
• absence of significant hills, terraces, or escarpments
• micro-topographic variations resulting from sediment deposition and agricultural land shaping

Slope gradients across the nursery area are estimated to remain well below 2 percent, which is consistent with the typical geomorphological conditions of the Fergana Valley basin.

Such terrain conditions are characteristic of large irrigated floodplain landscapes, where natural relief is minimal and landforms are defined primarily by sediment accumulation and long-term agricultural modification.

The flat valley morphology also contributes to the spatial continuity of agricultural land across the region, where cultivated fields, rural settlements, and tree belts are distributed across a largely uninterrupted plain.

In geomorphological terms, the nursery site can therefore be classified as part of the central Fergana Valley alluvial depositional plain, representing one of the dominant landform types within eastern Uzbekistan.

Overall, the terrain surrounding the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery reflects the stable floodplain geomorphology of the Fergana Valley, characterized by flat depositional surfaces and minimal elevation variation across the landscape.

1.3.5 Water Availability and Hydrological Context

In the Fergana Valley, surface water distribution is organized through a complex network of primary canals, secondary distribution channels, and local irrigation infrastructure, which regulate water supply for agricultural production and other land uses across the valley floor.

According to FAO AQUASTAT, Uzbekistan is among the most irrigation-dependent countries globally, with the majority of freshwater withdrawals allocated to irrigated agriculture. This structural dependence is particularly evident in the Fergana Valley, where agricultural productivity relies heavily on regulated canal systems and seasonal water allocation mechanisms.

Within this irrigation framework, water availability at the local scale depends mainly on several operational factors, including:

• canal discharge management and maintenance
• sediment control within irrigation infrastructure
• seasonal water allocation scheduling
• operational performance of diversion and pumping facilities where applicable

World Bank irrigation modernization assessments highlight that water supply reliability in Uzbekistan’s irrigated valleys is closely linked to the technical condition of irrigation infrastructure and the efficiency of water management systems.

Hydrologically, several factors influence water availability and management in the nursery area:

• strong dependence on controlled irrigation supply
• seasonal peaks in water demand during the summer growing period
• potential interaction between irrigation canals and shallow groundwater levels
• variability in water quality influenced by sediment load and mineral content

Under these conditions, hydrological planning for nursery development should focus on ensuring reliable irrigation supply and efficient water management practices.

Key technical considerations for nursery operations include:

• verification of seasonal canal water availability and allocation schedules
• monitoring of groundwater levels to identify potential waterlogging risks
• installation of sediment filtration systems at irrigation intake points
• adoption of efficient irrigation technologies such as drip or micro-sprinkler systems
• implementation of regular water quality monitoring, including electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and mineral composition

In summary, water availability for the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery is primarily determined by the performance and reliability of the regional irrigation system. While the presence of established canal infrastructure provides favorable conditions for nursery operations, sustainable seedling production requires careful water management, infrastructure maintenance, and systematic monitoring of water supply and quality.

1.3.6 Environmental Risks and Climate Stressors

Environmental pressures affecting the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery, operated by the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region, are primarily associated with the ecological dynamics of the Fergana Valley irrigated agricultural landscape. In this environment, environmental risks are influenced less by extreme aridity and more by the interaction between irrigation practices, soil conditions, and climate variability.

The nursery area is located within an intensively cultivated agricultural region where long-term irrigation and land use have shaped local environmental conditions. As a result, environmental pressures are closely linked to water management practices, soil quality, and exposure to climatic fluctuations.

The main environmental stress factors relevant to nursery operations include:

• seasonal heat stress during peak summer months
• fluctuations in groundwater levels associated with irrigation intensity
• localized waterlogging risks in low-gradient agricultural areas
• soil compaction resulting from repeated cultivation and machinery use
• low organic matter content in cultivated soils
• wind exposure across open agricultural fields
• reduced soil moisture retention capacity in coarse alluvial substrates

Unlike foothill landscapes where erosion and slope instability are dominant risks, the environmental sensitivity of the Fergana Valley landscape is more closely related to soil quality management, irrigation efficiency, and groundwater dynamics.

These environmental conditions require several adaptive measures for sustainable nursery development, including:

• selection of tree species adapted to valley climates and irrigated environments
• protection of young seedlings from heat stress and dry winds
• improvement of soil structure and organic matter content
• integration of windbreak systems to stabilize local microclimatic conditions
• careful management of irrigation and drainage practices

Recent assessments, including the World Bank Country Climate and Development Report for Uzbekistan, indicate that agricultural landscapes in the Fergana Valley are increasingly affected by climate variability, rising water demand, and pressures on irrigation efficiency. These trends highlight the importance of improving water and soil management practices within irrigated valley environments.

Similarly, FAO climate-smart agriculture guidance emphasizes integrated approaches combining water-efficient irrigation, soil health management, and landscape-level wind protection systems to strengthen resilience in semi-arid irrigated agricultural regions.

Within this context, environmental management priorities for the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery focus primarily on:

• maintaining stable soil and moisture conditions suitable for seedling production
• improving soil organic matter and soil structure
• protecting nursery plots from wind exposure
• adapting nursery production systems to increasing climate variability

In summary, the environmental context of the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery reflects the dynamics of an intensively irrigated agricultural landscape within the Fergana Valley, where sustainable nursery development depends primarily on effective soil management, climate-resilient production practices, and adaptive responses to seasonal climatic stressors.

1.3.7 Implications for Species Selection and Nursery Typology

Field observations and photographic documentation from the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery indicate that nursery production takes place within an intensively managed agricultural landscape of the Fergana Valley, characterized by open plains, irrigated farmland, and shelterbelt tree lines dominated by fast-growing species.

The field inspection confirmed the presence of structured nursery plots containing young conifer seedlings, deciduous saplings, and windbreak plantings. Existing plantation structures and surrounding shelterbelts demonstrate that forestry activities in this region are closely linked to agricultural protection systems, rural greening, and landscape stabilization.

Based on site observations, several ecological and operational factors influence species selection:

• open agricultural plains with moderate wind exposure
• coarse alluvial soils with relatively low moisture retention
• irrigation-supported vegetation growth
• existing shelterbelt plantation systems dominated by fast-growing species
• nursery beds currently used for both deciduous and coniferous seedlings

The presence of established poplar shelterbelts and conifer seedling plantations in the surrounding landscape indicates that nursery production already supports protective forestry and agricultural stabilization functions.

Considering these conditions, priority species for nursery production should include several functional groups.

Shelterbelt and Wind Protection Species

Species used to protect agricultural land from wind and stabilize open landscapes:

• Populus nigra and Populus alba (Poplar)
• Ulmus pumila (Siberian elm)
• Elaeagnus angustifolia (Russian olive)
• Acer negundo (Box elder)

These species are widely adapted to irrigated agricultural environments and provide rapid canopy development suitable for wind protection systems.

Agroforestry and Multipurpose Species

Species that combine ecological and economic value and can be integrated into agricultural landscapes:

• Morus alba (Mulberry)
• Robinia pseudoacacia (Black locust)
• Juglans regia (Walnut)
• Prunus armeniaca (Apricot)

These species are commonly used in the Fergana Valley for agroforestry systems and rural landscape diversification.

Coniferous Species for Landscape Stabilization

Field observations indicate the presence of young conifer plantations within nursery plots. Conifers are particularly suitable for landscape greening and protective forestry:

• Pinus eldarica (Eldar pine)
• Pinus nigra (Black pine)
• Juniperus virginiana
• Platycladus orientalis (Oriental arborvitae)

These species are tolerant of continental climates and provide year-round wind protection and landscape stabilization.

Nursery Production Typology

Based on current field conditions and existing infrastructure observed on site, the nursery should adopt a mixed production system combining:

• open-field nursery production for large-scale deciduous seedlings
• containerized seedling production for conifer species
• structured production blocks with wind protection corridors
• seedling hardening zones exposed to local climatic conditions before field planting

The photographic documentation also indicates the presence of mechanized planting equipment and structured row planting systems, suggesting that the nursery is already capable of supporting semi-mechanized seedling production and plantation establishment programs.

In this context, the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery has the potential to function as an important regional production center supplying planting material for:

• agricultural shelterbelt systems
• agroforestry development
• rural and peri-urban greening programs
• landscape restoration and climate adaptation initiatives within the Fergana Valley.

1.3.8. Integrated Technical Conclusion

The O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery, operated by the O‘rtaorol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region, presents a technically feasible and environmentally strategic location for forest nursery development within the irrigated agricultural landscape of the Fergana Valley. The site is situated within a flat alluvial plain influenced by the Kara Darya river system, which forms part of the broader Syr Darya basin. The surrounding landscape is characterized by irrigation-supported agriculture, alluvial soils, and an extensive network of canal-based water distribution systems.

According to FAO AQUASTAT, Uzbekistan is among the most irrigation-dependent agricultural systems globally, with agriculture accounting for the majority of national freshwater withdrawals. This structural reliance is particularly evident in highly productive agricultural valleys such as the Fergana Valley, where irrigation infrastructure, canal networks, and controlled water management sustain both agricultural and forestry production systems.

FAO AQUASTAT – Uzbekistan Country Profile:
https://www.fao.org/aquastat/en/countries-and-basins/country-profiles/country/UZB

The World Bank Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) for Uzbekistan highlights that irrigated agricultural regions, including the Fergana Valley, are increasingly exposed to:

• rising temperatures and seasonal heat stress
• increasing evapotranspiration rates
• growing seasonal irrigation demand
• climate variability affecting water management systems

World Bank – Country Climate and Development Report (Uzbekistan):
https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/40382

Within the regional irrigation system, canals and secondary water channels distribute regulated water across the agricultural plains of the Fergana Valley. Consequently, water availability for forestry nursery operations depends largely on canal infrastructure performance, allocation scheduling, and irrigation management efficiency, as emphasized in irrigation modernization assessments conducted by the World Bank.

World Bank – Irrigation Modernization Project (Uzbekistan):
https://projects.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/project-detail/P178340

Based on available environmental data and regional observations, the main biophysical characteristics of the O‘rtaorol nursery site include:

• location within the flat alluvial landscape of the Fergana Valley
• elevation of approximately 480 meters above sea level
• annual precipitation of approximately 220–300 mm, mainly during winter and spring
• warm summers with peak temperatures generally reaching 34–38°C
• irrigation-supported agricultural production systems in the surrounding landscape
• alluvial soils with moderate permeability and variable moisture retention capacity
• extremely low natural slope gradients typical of valley floodplain environments

Compared with foothill districts, floodplain environments such as those in the central Fergana Valley are generally less exposed to slope erosion processes but are more sensitive to irrigation management efficiency, groundwater dynamics, and soil structure stability.

From a technical perspective, the O‘rtaorol site offers several operational advantages for nursery development, including:

• high feasibility for mechanized nursery operations due to flat terrain
• efficient installation of irrigation infrastructure and production zones
• proximity to existing irrigation canal networks
• integration within a well-developed agricultural production landscape

However, long-term sustainability of nursery operations will depend on several key technical considerations:

• maintaining efficient irrigation management during seasonal water demand peaks
• preventing localized waterlogging in low-gradient agricultural terrain
• improving soil structure and organic matter content
• stabilizing microclimatic conditions within open valley landscapes

Accordingly, nursery establishment at the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery should incorporate the following technical measures:

• high-efficiency irrigation systems such as drip or micro-sprinkler technologies
• engineered drainage and precision land-leveling measures
• systematic soil testing and soil improvement programs to enhance fertility and moisture retention
• integration of windbreak and shelterbelt systems to improve microclimatic stability
• regular monitoring of irrigation water quality (EC, pH, TDS, mineral composition)
• careful species–site matching emphasizing species adapted to irrigated valley environments

Based on FAO and World Bank assessments, the environmental context of the Fergana Valley irrigation landscape is primarily shaped by water management dynamics, soil conditions, and climate variability within an intensively cultivated agricultural basin. With properly designed irrigation efficiency measures, drainage planning, and climate-adapted species selection, the O‘rtaorol site is technically suitable for the development of a modern, climate-resilient forestry nursery aligned with the objectives of the RESILAND CA+ program.

The key determinants of long-term success for the O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery include:

• efficient irrigation and water-use management
• soil quality improvement and organic matter enhancement
• effective drainage and groundwater monitoring
• microclimate stabilization through shelterbelt systems
• climate-adapted species selection suitable for the Fergana Valley environment

Accordingly, the O‘rtaorol site represents a strategically suitable location for nursery development, capable of supporting regional landscape restoration, shelterbelt establishment, agroforestry systems, and climate-resilient greening initiatives across the Fergana Valley.

1.4 Field Mission and Site Assessment Findings

Within the scope of the RESILAND CA+ field mission to Namangan Region (Namangan viloyati), a site visit was conducted to the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, where nursery-related planting areas and forestry activities were observed.

The visit took place on Sunday, 8 February 2026, as part of the consultancy mission aimed at assessing the operational conditions and development potential of forestry nurseries selected under the RESILAND CA+ Nursery Framework.

The mission focused on evaluating the current status of forestry and nursery-related activities at the site, including:

• assessment of existing planting areas and nursery-related operations
• observation of forestry plantation plots and planting structure
• evaluation of site conditions and landscape characteristics
• review of operational infrastructure and access conditions
• technical consultations with regional forestry representatives

The O‘rta Orol State Forestry site is located in Namangan Region at approximately 40.9304080 N – 71.8134080 E, within a landscape characterized by agricultural plains and forestry planting zones typical of eastern Namangan.

The forestry area lies within the broader Fergana Valley landscape, where agricultural land, shelterbelt systems, and mixed tree plantations form a mosaic pattern across the valley floor. The site is positioned within a lowland to gently undulating terrain, which supports a range of deciduous and coniferous species commonly used for afforestation, wind protection, and soil stabilization.

During the visit, several planting plots and nursery-related areas were visually inspected. Observations from the field indicate that:

• rows of young seedlings are planted in regular linear patterns, suggesting mechanized or semi-mechanized planting methods
• seedling density appears moderate, allowing adequate spacing for root development and canopy growth
• some plots contain early-stage conifer seedlings, while nearby areas include deciduous saplings at various development stages
• winter conditions resulted in dormant vegetation and exposed soil surfaces, allowing clear observation of planting structure and spacing
• established mature trees around operational areas provide wind protection and contribute to local microclimatic buffering

Ground cover was generally limited during the winter season, which may temporarily increase exposure of soil surfaces but also facilitates inspection and maintenance of planting rows.

Infrastructure observed on site includes basic forestry service facilities and resting areas integrated within mature tree stands, which appear to support both operational activities and staff use. Internal access routes and surrounding agricultural roads provide functional connectivity between plantation areas and nearby settlements.

The surrounding landscape also benefits from proximity to irrigation channels serving the agricultural lands of the Fergana Valley, although the site currently appears to rely on relatively basic and partly manual water management practices.

During the visit, coordination and technical discussions were conducted with representatives involved in forestry activities in Namangan Region, including:

• Ja’farov Maxamadxon Axmadxonovich
Namangan Viloyati Hududiy Ofis Koordinatori
📞 +998 98 771 24 77

• Voxobov Azizbek A’zamjonovich
Namangan Viloyati Texnik Mutaxassis
📞 +998 50 252 65 64

Visual documentation from the site also includes reference to:

• Emin Can Mirzabayev
Deputy Director – O‘rta Orol (Narin) Forestry
📞 +998 97 270 26 72

Based on the field observations, the O‘rta Orol State Forestry area demonstrates organized forestry land management practices, including structured planting schemes and maintained access routes.

Although the winter season limited detailed biological evaluation of vegetation growth, structural indicators suggest that the site functions as an active forestry unit supporting plantation development, protective forestry activities, and nursery-supported planting programs within the region.

The diversity of planting areas and species composition indicates a multipurpose forestry approach, combining elements of reforestation, protective shelterbelt establishment, and landscape stabilization.

Further monitoring during the growing season would allow a more detailed assessment of:

• seedling survival rates
• species growth performance
• adaptation of planted species to local environmental conditions
• irrigation efficiency and plantation management practices

Overall, the field mission confirmed that the O‘rta Orol State Forestry site represents an operational forestry unit within Namangan Region, with existing plantation infrastructure and nursery-related planting activities that could support expanded nursery development and landscape restoration initiatives under the RESILAND CA+ program.

1.4.2 Reviewing Existing Nursery Design

The spatial framework for nursery development in Namangan Region is defined by the territory of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, which forms part of the regional forestry management system under the Agency for Forest and Green Area Expansion and Combating Desertification of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The forestry enterprise manages a landscape characterized by a combination of plantation forestry areas, shelterbelt systems, agricultural interface zones, and forestry infrastructure typical of the irrigated environments of the Fergana Valley. Land management within the enterprise is organized through a system of forestry compartments used for administrative planning, plantation management, and resource monitoring.

Spatial interpretation of cadastral information and satellite imagery indicates that the forestry territory of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise consists of a mosaic of land uses commonly associated with irrigated valley forestry systems, including:

• plantation forestry areas
• agricultural shelterbelt systems
• nursery-related planting plots
• protective green belts and windbreak corridors
• irrigation infrastructure and canal corridors
• operational facilities and service areas

These land-use elements reflect the integrated forestry–agriculture landscape management model widely applied across the Fergana Valley, where forestry enterprises contribute to both environmental protection and agricultural landscape stabilization.

Within the broader forestry territory, specific plots are used for nursery-related seedling production and plantation establishment activities. Field observations and spatial analysis indicate that nursery-related planting areas are organized in structured blocks integrated within the operational territory of the forestry enterprise.

Satellite imagery further confirms that the nursery-related areas are located within a flat irrigated agricultural plain, surrounded by cultivated fields, shelterbelt tree lines, and irrigation canals connected to the broader Syr Darya basin irrigation network.

Such spatial conditions provide favorable physical characteristics for nursery development, including:

• flat terrain suitable for structured nursery layout
• proximity to irrigation infrastructure
• integration with existing plantation and shelterbelt systems
• accessibility through agricultural road networks

From a planning perspective, the integration of nursery areas within the operational territory of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise provides important advantages. The nursery can function as a production center supporting plantation forestry, shelterbelt establishment, and landscape restoration programs, while remaining embedded within the broader forestry management landscape.

This spatial arrangement allows nursery production to directly support regional afforestation programs, agricultural protection systems, and climate-resilient landscape restoration initiatives implemented across Namangan Region and the wider Fergana Valley.

Overall, the spatial framework of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise provides a suitable administrative and land-use structure for the development and modernization of forestry nursery production under the RESILAND CA+ program, supporting long-term forestry development and landscape restoration objectives in eastern Uzbekistan.

1.4.3 Water Resources and Hydrogeological Feasibility

Field observations indicate that the nursery-related planting areas within the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise are located in a well-developed irrigation landscape typical of the Fergana Valley. Agricultural production in this region is supported by an extensive network of irrigation canals distributing surface water to surrounding farmland and forestry plantations.

Although the main Syr Darya river system does not pass directly through the nursery area, the regional irrigation network—primarily supplied by tributaries such as the Kara Darya—provides reliable water resources for agricultural and forestry activities across the valley.

This irrigation-supported setting provides a significant operational advantage for nursery development, as it enables controlled abstraction and distribution of water for seedling production systems. With appropriate infrastructure improvements, the site could support modern high-efficiency irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation or micro-sprinkler systems, provided that suitable intake structures, filtration units, and distribution networks are installed.

However, the flat terrain characteristic of the Fergana Valley introduces several hydrological considerations. Very low natural slope gradients may increase the risk of localized water accumulation in micro-depressions, particularly under intensive irrigation conditions. In addition, groundwater levels may fluctuate in response to canal seepage and seasonal irrigation cycles.

For this reason, sustainable upgrading of the O‘rta Orol nursery area should incorporate several key water-management measures, including:

(i) engineered surface drainage and careful land leveling to ensure uniform irrigation distribution
(ii) irrigation scheduling and zonal management to prevent over-irrigation
(iii) periodic monitoring of irrigation water quality parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and salinity
(iv) installation of properly designed water intake and filtration systems to ensure reliable operation of pressurized irrigation infrastructure

1.4.5 Integrated Strategic Conclusion of the Field Assessment

The field mission conducted to the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise in Namangan Region confirmed that the site represents a technically viable and strategically important location for the development and modernization of forestry nursery activities within the framework of the Uzbekistan Resilient Landscapes Restoration Project (RESILAND CA+).

The field visit took place on Sunday, 8 February 2026, during which the project delegation inspected forestry planting areas and nursery-related plots together with representatives of the regional forestry administration.

During the mission, technical consultations and discussions were held with the following representatives involved in forestry activities in Namangan Region:

• Ja’farov Maxamadxon Axmadxonovich – Namangan Regional Office Coordinator
• Voxobov Azizbek A’zamjonovich – Technical Specialist, Namangan Region

Visual documentation from the site also included reference to:

• Emin Can Mirzabayev – Deputy Director, O‘rta Orol (Narin) Forestry

The discussions focused on the current operational conditions of forestry planting areas, available land resources for nursery development, irrigation conditions, and the potential establishment of a modernized forestry nursery within the operational territory of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise.

Field observations confirmed that existing planting areas are currently managed using traditional open-field planting techniques, without the use of modern greenhouse infrastructure or containerized seedling production systems. While the current system supports basic plantation and seedling cultivation activities, it does not yet meet the technical standards required for climate-resilient nursery production systems envisioned under the RESILAND CA+ framework.

Nevertheless, the site demonstrates several structural advantages that support its suitability for modernization and technical upgrading.

The forestry area is located within the Fergana Valley landscape, at approximately 40.930408° N – 71.813408° E, within a terrain characterized by flat to gently undulating agricultural plains typical of eastern Namangan Region. These terrain conditions provide favorable circumstances for mechanized nursery operations, structured production zoning, and the installation of irrigation infrastructure with minimal earthworks.

The surrounding landscape consists primarily of agricultural fields, shelterbelt plantings, and scattered forestry stands, reflecting the integrated agricultural–forestry land-use structure typical of the Fergana Valley.

Field inspection confirmed the presence of established tree stands and shelterbelt-style plantings around parts of the forestry area. These mature trees function as windbreak systems, reducing wind exposure across open planting areas and contributing to local microclimatic stabilization. Such shelterbelts represent an important structural asset and should be preserved and integrated into future nursery planning.

At the same time, several technical limitations were identified during the site assessment. These include:

• limited modern nursery infrastructure
• absence of greenhouse or containerized seedling production systems
• basic internal access routes and operational facilities
• traditional irrigation arrangements relying partly on manual water management
• soil surface compaction in some planting areas

In addition, field observations indicate the presence of coarse alluvial soils containing gravel and stone fragments, which may influence soil moisture retention and seedling establishment. Detailed laboratory soil analysis will therefore be necessary prior to nursery development planning, including evaluation of:

• soil texture and structure
• organic matter content
• infiltration rate and permeability
• electrical conductivity (EC) and soil salinity levels
• nutrient composition

The site benefits from the presence of nearby irrigation infrastructure serving surrounding agricultural land, which provides a potential water source for future nursery irrigation systems. In addition, regional electricity infrastructure is available within the broader operational area, enabling the installation of irrigation pumping systems and other nursery facilities if required.

Considering the environmental conditions of the Fergana Valley, characterized by continental climate patterns with warm summers, cold winters, and limited natural precipitation during the growing season, irrigation will remain a critical operational component for nursery production.

Despite current infrastructure limitations, the field mission confirmed that the O‘rta Orol forestry area possesses several advantages for future nursery development, including:

• terrain suitable for mechanized nursery operations
• presence of shelterbelt systems providing wind protection
• proximity to irrigation infrastructure supporting agricultural production
• availability of land suitable for structured nursery development
• accessibility through regional agricultural road networks
• institutional support from the regional forestry administration

With appropriate engineering and operational improvements—including modern irrigation systems, greenhouse or containerized seedling production facilities, improved internal access infrastructure, soil improvement programs, and structured nursery zoning—the site has strong potential to evolve into a modern climate-resilient forestry nursery.

Such modernization would enable the O‘rta Orol forestry nursery to function as a regional production center supporting afforestation, shelterbelt establishment, landscape restoration, and greening initiatives across Namangan Region and the wider Fergana Valley, in line with the objectives of the RESILAND CA+ program and Uzbekistan’s national landscape restoration strategy.

1.5 Conclusion of First Assessment & Feasibility Report

This First Assessment and Feasibility Report evaluates the proposed development and modernization of forestry nursery activities within the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise, located in Namangan Region, under the framework of the Uzbekistan Resilient Landscapes Restoration Project (RESILAND CA+).

The assessment examined the strategic relevance of the site, environmental and climatic conditions, spatial organization of forestry lands, operational feasibility, and long-term development potential of the nursery area. The analysis was based on field observations, consultations with regional forestry representatives, available cadastral information, and satellite imagery interpretation.

The O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise forms part of the forestry management system operating within the irrigated landscape of the Fergana Valley, where forestry activities are closely integrated with agricultural land use. The forestry territory includes a combination of plantation forestry areas, shelterbelt systems, agricultural interface zones, and operational infrastructure typical of valley forestry enterprises.

Such a mosaic land-use structure is characteristic of forestry management in the Fergana Valley, where forestry plantations and shelterbelts play an important role in protecting agricultural land from wind erosion, stabilizing microclimatic conditions, and supporting regional landscape restoration initiatives.

Within this forestry landscape, areas are currently used for planting activities and nursery-related seedling production, forming the operational basis for the potential establishment of a modern forestry nursery under the RESILAND CA+ framework.

From a spatial perspective, the integration of nursery production areas within the operational territory of the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise provides several important advantages. Nursery development can be closely linked with existing plantation forestry operations and shelterbelt systems, enabling efficient distribution of planting material and supporting regional afforestation programs.

The geographic location of the site further strengthens its strategic relevance. Namangan Region occupies a central position in the eastern Fergana Valley, one of the most densely populated and agriculturally productive regions of Uzbekistan. This location facilitates efficient distribution of planting material for:

• regional afforestation and reforestation programs
• agricultural shelterbelt establishment
• agroforestry initiatives within irrigated farming systems
• urban and peri-urban greening activities

The surrounding landscape also benefits from well-developed irrigation infrastructure typical of the Fergana Valley agricultural system. The presence of irrigation canals connected to the broader Syr Darya basin water management system provides a reliable source of surface water for nursery irrigation.

In addition, the broader operational area benefits from existing rural infrastructure, including electricity supply and local road networks. These infrastructural elements support the potential installation of irrigation pumping systems, nursery facilities, storage infrastructure, and greenhouse units if required.

From a technical perspective, the site demonstrates several structural characteristics favorable for nursery development, including:

• flat to gently undulating terrain suitable for mechanized nursery operations
• access to irrigation water through the regional canal network
• integration within an existing forestry management landscape
• accessibility through agricultural road networks
• availability of regional electricity infrastructure

Together, these conditions create a favorable operational environment for nursery development without requiring major land restructuring.

At the same time, the assessment identifies several technical aspects that should be addressed during the design phase in order to ensure long-term sustainability of nursery production. These include soil management within irrigated valley soils, drainage planning in low-gradient terrain, and efficient irrigation management under conditions of increasing climate variability.

To ensure the successful development of a modern, climate-resilient forestry nursery, several technical measures should be incorporated during the next stage of project implementation, including:

• installation of high-efficiency irrigation systems such as drip or micro-sprinkler technologies
• implementation of precision land leveling and engineered drainage systems
• introduction of containerized seedling production systems
• integration of wind protection and shelterbelt elements to stabilize the nursery microclimate
• establishment of soil and water quality monitoring systems

Species selection strategies should prioritize fast-growing plantation species, shelterbelt species, and multipurpose trees adapted to irrigated valley environments, enabling the nursery to support both landscape restoration and agricultural protection systems across the Fergana Valley.

Overall, the findings of this assessment confirm that the O‘rta Orol State Forestry Enterprise area is technically suitable for the development and modernization of forestry nursery production under the RESILAND CA+ framework.

With appropriate engineering design, improved irrigation infrastructure, modern nursery production technologies, and structured operational planning, the site has the potential to evolve into an important regional nursery supporting afforestation, shelterbelt establishment, agroforestry systems, and landscape restoration initiatives in Namangan Region and the wider Fergana Valley.

The completion of this First Assessment and Feasibility Report therefore establishes the technical, spatial, and strategic foundation required to proceed to the next stage of the consultancy process. Subject to approval by the RESILAND CA+ Project Implementation Unit (PIU), the project will advance to Phase 5 – Nursery Design, during which detailed engineering designs, operational layouts, and technical specifications for the O‘rta Orol Forestry Nursery will be prepared.

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Phase 4: O‘rtaorol Forestry Nursery

Introduction